Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep the surface of your eyes adequately lubricated. Symptoms can include dryness, irritation, redness, and blurred vision.

Causes of Dry Eye

Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including:

• Age: Tear production tends to decrease with age.
• Medications: Certain medications can reduce tear production.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to dry eyes.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
• Screen Time: Sustained screen use can affect blinking and contribute to discomfort.

Comprehensive Dry Eye Assessment

At Smart Vision Optometry, we offer a thorough assessment to investigate your symptoms, tear film and eyelids. Tests are selected according to your history and examination; the findings guide a discussion of treatment options.

Treatment Options to Discuss

Depending on the cause and severity of dry eye, a clinician may discuss the following options. Ask about suitability, risks, costs and current availability; some care may require referral.

• Artificial Tears: Lubricating drops, gels or ointments may help manage symptoms. Product choice depends on your eyes and how you use the drops.
• Prescription Medications: Selected prescription treatments may be considered after examination. Use them only as directed by your treating clinician.
• Punctal Plugs: Small devices placed in the tear drainage openings to retain tears in selected patients.
• Gland-Directed Care: If meibomian gland dysfunction contributes, your clinician may discuss eyelid care or an in-practice procedure. Ask which approach is appropriate and available.
• IPL: Intense pulsed light may be considered for selected people with meibomian gland dysfunction. Benefits vary; risks, eye protection and alternatives need discussion.

• Blephasteam
• BlephEx
• Drops
• Smart IPL
• Nutrition

A Plan for Ongoing Care

Dry eye often needs ongoing management. Agree on a plan for home care, follow-up and how response will be assessed. Tell your clinician if symptoms persist or worsen.

What to Expect From Your Consultation

• Assessment: Discuss your symptoms, medical history, medicines and previous treatment.
• Explanation: Ask what the examination found and what each proposed option aims to address.
• Shared Planning: Discuss practical home care, expected benefits, limitations, fees and review timing.

Book Your Dry Eye Assessment Today

Arrange an assessment to discuss your symptoms and options. Booking a consultation does not commit you to a particular treatment.

Contact Us

For routine dry-eye enquiries, call Bondi (02) 9365 5047 or Mosman (02) 9969 1600. Ask about current appointment and treatment availability.

Is there one best treatment for dry eye?

No. Dry eye has different causes, so treatment should follow an assessment. Your clinician will consider your symptoms, tear film, eyelids, medicines and previous response before discussing options.

Does everyone with dry eye need IPL or an in-practice procedure?

No. Many care plans start with appropriate home care and lubricating drops. Procedures are considered only when the findings support them, with a discussion of risks, alternatives and likely benefit.

What should I bring to a dry-eye appointment?

Bring a list of medicines and the names of eye drops or eyelid products you use. Note when symptoms occur, any previous treatment and questions about costs, follow-up or treatment availability.

Related Dry-Eye Information

Explore dry-eye symptoms and management, in-practice eyelid cleansing and our SVO article on screen time and eye comfort. The National Eye Institute explains general dry-eye treatment; read the 2025 IPL systematic review for procedure-specific evidence and limitations.