When dry eye is tied to blocked or poorly functioning oil glands in the eyelids, artificial tears may only provide temporary relief. MiBoFlo is an in-office dry eye treatment that uses controlled heat and gentle massage to target meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of evaporative dry eye. By helping loosen thickened oils and improve gland function, treatment can support a more stable tear film and more comfortable eyes.
At the Dry Eye Center at Siepser Eyecare in Wayne, PA, Michele Pendrak Bush, O.D., provides focused care for patients with persistent and complex dry eye symptoms. As the practice’s dry eye specialist, Dr. Pendrak evaluates tear quality, eyelid gland function, and other contributing factors before recommending treatment. MiBoFlo may be part of a personalized plan when meibomian gland dysfunction contributes to dryness, irritation, or fluctuating vision.
What Is MiBoFlo?
MiBoFlo is a thermal treatment that warms the eyelids and helps improve oil flow from the meibomian glands. These glands line the upper and lower eyelids and produce the oily layer of the tear film, which helps prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.
When the glands become clogged, their oils may thicken and become harder to release. This can cause the tear film to break down more quickly and lead to symptoms such as burning, grittiness, redness, and blurred or fluctuating vision.
MiBoFlo delivers steady warmth through a handheld treatment device while gently massaging the eyelid area. The combination of heat and massage is intended to soften blocked oils and encourage healthier gland function.
Who May Benefit From MiBoFlo?
MiBoFlo is generally considered for patients whose dry eye is related to meibomian gland dysfunction or excessive tear evaporation.
Symptoms that may point to this type of dry eye include:
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Burning or stinging
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A sandy or gritty sensation
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Red or irritated eyes
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Fluctuating vision
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Excessive watering
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Eye fatigue
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Contact lens discomfort
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Symptoms that return despite regular use of artificial tears
Because dry eye can have several different causes, an evaluation at the Dry Eye Center helps determine whether blocked meibomian glands are actually contributing to the problem.
What Happens During MiBoFlo Treatment?
During a MiBoFlo session, a heated device moves over the closed eyelids while applying controlled warmth and gentle pressure. The treatment warms the meibomian glands and softens thickened oils so they can flow more freely.
Treatment protocols can vary depending on the severity of gland dysfunction and the patient’s response. Clinical studies have evaluated MiBoFlo in a series of treatment sessions and found improvements in both dry eye symptoms and measures of meibomian gland function.
Most patients can return to their usual activities after treatment.
How Does MiBoFlo Fit Into Dry Eye Care?
Meibomian gland dysfunction is only one possible contributor to dry eye, so MiBoFlo may be used alongside other treatments rather than alone.
Depending on the dry eye evaluation findings, care may also include lubricating or prescription eye drops, eyelid hygiene, IPL therapy, radiofrequency treatment, or other strategies designed to improve the ocular surface.
The Dry Eye Center can also help patients preparing for LASIK, PRK, cataract surgery, or other vision correction procedures. Improving tear film stability beforehand may support more consistent measurements and better visual comfort during recovery.
Why Choose Siepser Eyecare for MiBoFlo?
Successful treatment begins with identifying the cause of dry eye symptoms. Michele Pendrak Bush, O.D., leads care at the Dry Eye Center at Siepser Eyecare and has more than 12 years of experience in comprehensive eye care, ocular disease management, and treatment of challenging dry eye conditions.
Her expertise supports using MiBoFlo as part of a broader treatment strategy rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. When developing a plan, consider tear quality, meibomian gland function, inflammation, contact lens use, and other factors. Patients also benefit from coordinated care when dry eye overlaps with cataracts, refractive surgery, or other vision concerns.
Explore MiBoFlo in Wayne, PA
MiBoFlo may help improve dry eye symptoms when blocked meibomian glands are preventing the tear film from functioning properly. The Dry Eye Center at Siepser Eyecare provides targeted evaluation and treatment for patients with persistent dry eye in Wayne, PA. Call (610) 265-2020 to schedule a consultation and find out whether MiBoFlo may be appropriate for your dry eye treatment plan.