Why glands matter
Every blink depends on gland oil.
Meibomian glands release oils that help keep tears stable. TearCare is designed to warm the lids while the patient can keep the eyes open and blink.
Back to eye care services and treatments
TearCare treatment
Localized heat therapy for Meibomian glands.
TearCare is intended for adult patients with evaporative dry eye disease due to Meibomian gland dysfunction, when used with manual gland expression.
Localized heatApplied to the eyelids.
Open-eye designPatients may blink naturally.
Manual expressionPerformed by the doctor.
Treatment fit
The exam decides whether it fits.
Your doctor checks for evaporative dry eye, Meibomian gland dysfunction, lid findings, symptoms, and medical factors before recommending treatment.
Questions worth asking.
Why TearCare?Ask what findings support it.
Is expression included?The system is used with expression.
Am I eligible?History and eye findings matter.
What happens after?Home care may still support comfort.
What your doctor is looking for.
Evaporative dry eye
Tears may break up too quickly.
MGD findings
Blocked, capped, or slow glands.
Safety factors
Recent surgery, infection, or styes.
Office treatment
TearCare is not a home warm compress.
The system applies localized heat therapy with SmartLids on the eyelids and is used by a professional with manual expression of the Meibomian glands.
Care between visits.
Use products that fit your doctor's guidance.
Keep exploring.
Find dry eye care near you.
Search locally, then ask whether TearCare is offered and how the practice evaluates Meibomian gland dysfunction.
Fast answers.
Is TearCare for every dry eye patient?
No. The manufacturer's indication is for adult patients with evaporative dry eye disease due to Meibomian gland dysfunction, when used with manual expression.
Can contact lenses stay in during treatment?
No. Sight Sciences states contact lenses should be removed before treatment and patients should wait before reinserting them after the procedure.
Is TearCare the same as LipiFlow?
No. They are different in-office technologies used for Meibomian gland related dry eye care.
Sources.
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Only an eye care professional who has examined you can recommend what is right for your eyes. TearCare, SmartHub, and SmartLids are trademarks of Sight Sciences.