Dry Eye Disease is emerging as one of the most common yet under-recognised eye conditions affecting Australians, with optometrists reporting increasing cases across both adult and younger patient groups. As screen use rises and environmental stressors intensify, practitioners say many patients are seeking longer-lasting solutions beyond artificial tears.
Once considered a minor irritation, Dry Eye Disease is now recognised as a chronic inflammatory condition of the ocular surface. Symptoms may include burning, stinging, fluctuating vision, redness, light sensitivity and the persistent sensation of grit in the eyes.
Gary Rodney, creator and founder of Smart Vision Optometry, a Master of Optometry, Behavioural Optometrist and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (FIAOMC) with more than 30 years of experience, says the condition can significantly affect quality of life.
“Dry Eye Disease is not simply about insufficient tears,” Rodney said. “In many cases, it involves dysfunction of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of the tear film. When that oil layer is compromised, tears evaporate too quickly.”
Understanding the Root Cause
The tear film consists of three layers: oil, water and mucin. If any component becomes unstable, symptoms can develop. One of the most common contributors is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), where glands along the eyelid margin become blocked or inflamed.
Without adequate oil secretion, tears evaporate rapidly, leaving the ocular surface exposed and irritated.
Jacquie Gattegno, principal senior optometrist at Eyes InDesign Smart Vision Optometry Bondi and an experienced Behavioural Optometrist and Orthokeratologist, says many patients are surprised to learn their dry eye symptoms are inflammatory in nature.
“Patients often rely on lubricating drops for years without understanding why the problem persists,” Gattegno said. “Drops can provide temporary relief, but if gland function isn’t restored, the underlying issue remains.”
Why Dry Eye Is Increasing
Practitioners are observing several contributing factors behind rising Dry Eye Disease diagnoses:
- Increased screen time and reduced blink rate
- Air conditioning and indoor environments
- Hormonal changes
- Contact lens wear
- Age-related gland changes
Rodney explained that prolonged digital device use reduces blink frequency, which impacts oil distribution across the tear film.
“When we concentrate on screens, blink rate can drop by up to 50 per cent,” he said. “Incomplete blinking prevents proper gland expression, leading to stagnation and inflammation.”
IPL Is A Modern Treatment Approach
As understanding of Dry Eye Disease has evolved, treatment options have expanded beyond warm compresses and lubricants. One of the more advanced technologies now used in optometric care is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.
IPL, originally developed for dermatological treatments, uses controlled pulses of light applied to the skin around the eyelids. Research has shown that this light energy can reduce inflammation, improve meibomian gland function and enhance tear film stability.
Rodney described IPL as a significant development in dry eye management.
“IPL works by targeting abnormal blood vessels and inflammatory mediators along the eyelid margin,” he said. “By reducing inflammation and liquefying thickened gland secretions, we can help restore more normal tear film function.”
How IPL Treatment Works
During an IPL session, protective shields are placed over the eyes while light pulses are delivered to the skin beneath the lower eyelids and surrounding area. The procedure is generally quick, with minimal discomfort.
Following light application, manual gland expression may be performed to help release obstructed oils.
Rodney explained that a series of treatments is typically recommended.
“Dry Eye Disease is chronic, so management often involves multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart,” he said. “The goal is to stabilise the ocular surface and maintain long-term improvement.”
Patient Experience and Outcomes
Gattegno says many patients report noticeable improvement in comfort and visual stability following treatment.
“Patients frequently tell us their eyes feel less gritty and less fatigued,” she said. “Some also notice clearer, more consistent vision because the tear film becomes more stable.”
Unlike artificial tears, which provide short-term lubrication, IPL addresses underlying inflammation and gland obstruction.
“It’s about treating the cause rather than simply managing symptoms,” Gattegno added.
Who May Benefit from IPL?
IPL may be suitable for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic dry eye symptoms
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
- Ocular rosacea
- Contact lens intolerance
- Persistent irritation despite lubricants
Rodney emphasised the importance of proper diagnosis before commencing treatment.
“A comprehensive dry eye assessment allows us to evaluate gland structure, tear quality and inflammatory signs,” he said. “IPL is recommended only when clinically appropriate.”
A Holistic Management Plan
While IPL can be highly effective, practitioners stress that it is often part of a broader management strategy. Nutritional support, blink training, environmental modifications and targeted lid hygiene may also be recommended.
Gattegno said patient education plays a vital role.
“We work closely with patients to identify contributing lifestyle factors,” she said. “Small changes — such as conscious blinking during screen use — can enhance treatment outcomes.”
Moving Beyond Temporary Relief
As awareness grows, more Australians are seeking long-term solutions for persistent dry eye symptoms.
Rodney believes advanced technology has changed expectations.
“Patients no longer need to accept chronic discomfort as normal,” he said. “With modern diagnostic tools and therapies like IPL, we can offer more comprehensive management.”
Gattegno agreed that early intervention leads to better outcomes.
“If dryness is affecting daily comfort, reading stamina or screen use, it’s worth having a thorough assessment,” she said.
With increasing digital demands and environmental stressors, optometrists say Dry Eye Disease is likely to remain a significant focus in primary eye care.
If you’re experiencing persistent dryness, irritation or fluctuating vision, we can assess whether IPL therapy or a personalised dry eye management plan may help.Book an appointment, or call the Bondi clinic on (02) 9365 5047 or the Mosman clinic on (02) 9969 1600. We are always happy to discuss whether Ortho-K might be a good fit for your family.
