Dry eye treatment device

Abstract

A dry eye treatment device and method of use are disclosed for applying heat to the exterior surface of an eyelid to treat dry eye symptoms which can be caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). More specifically, a user operable main unit and hand piece are provided that allow the user to heat his/her or another patient's eyelids to a desired temperature, which can effectively and efficiently raise the temperature at the meibomian glands sufficient to melt, loosen, or soften more serious occlusions or obstructions in the meibomian glands, thereby restoring natural secretory function to obstructed glands.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of treating an eye with an eye treatment device, comprising:
 heating an end piece of a hand-held unit;   placing the end piece on an exterior surface of an eyelid; and   moving the end piece on the exterior surface of the eyelid.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the end piece is heated by a heating element disposed within the hand hand-held unit. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprises applying a substance to the exterior surface of the eyelid. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the substance is an ultrasound gel. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the treating further comprises promoting meibomian gland function of the eyelid.