1. Introduction – What MGD is and why it concerns us all
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is one of the most common causes of dry eye, blepharitis and chronic eye irritation. Yet, it often remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to long-term discomfort and, in many cases, chalazion – a painful eyelid cyst caused by blocked or malfunctioning meibomian glands.
According to studies, more than 50% of people over the age of 40 present some degree of MGD, while in glaucoma patients this percentage exceeds 80%.
2. Anatomy and function of the meibomian glands
Meibomian glands are located along the edge of the eyelids, within the tarsal plate, and secrete a lipid layer that:
- Stabilizes the tear film
- Protects the ocular surface from evaporation
- Lubricates the eyelashes, keeping them healthy and strong
- Plays a crucial role in high-definition vision
When the glands become blocked:
- The quality and quantity of lipid secretion decreases, causing evaporative dry eye
- The ocular surface becomes dehydrated
- Irritation, inflammation and risk of infection increase
- Blurred vision appears
3. MGD and associated eye problems
MGD can worsen or cause:
- Evaporative dry eye
- Blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation)
- Blepharoconjunctivitis
- Conjunctivitis due to infection or allergens (pollen, dust, pollution)
- Glaucoma – especially in patients using BAK-preserved antiglaucoma drops
- Chalazion (cyst caused by complete blockage of a gland)
- Eyelash loss and fragility
4. Causes and Risk Factors
- Poor eyelid hygiene
- Makeup (especially eyeliner on the waterline)
- Eyelash extensions trapping sebum and microbes
- Environmental pollution and allergens
- Antiglaucoma eye drops with preservatives
- Hormonal changes (menopause, pregnancy)
- Systemic medications (antidepressants, antihistamines)
- Skin diseases (rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis)
->Makeup and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
5. Symptoms
- Dryness, burning, stinging
- Foreign body sensation
- Redness and swelling of eyelids
- Blurred vision improving after blinking
- Light sensitivity
- Reflex tearing
- Eyelash loss and fragility
6. Chalazion as a result of MGD
A chalazion is an inflammatory swelling that appears when a meibomian gland becomes completely blocked and its lipid secretion accumulates.
MGD is the main mechanism behind recurrent chalazia. Preventing and treating MGD significantly reduces the risk of chalazion.
7. Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by an ophthalmologist through:
- Slit-lamp examination
- Meibography to image the gland structure
- Evaluation of lipid secretion using OphthalmogenMeiboEvacuators
8. Therapeutic approach with Ophthalmogen
8.1 Ophthalmogen EYE10 – Precision Thermotherapy
- Self-heating technology with a stable 40°C temperature for 20’ minutes – ideal for the mibomian glands
- Softens secretions and helps release blocked glands restoring natural lipid flow
- Relieves eyelid congestion and alleviates pain, pressure and heaviness
- Improves tear quality and stabilizes the tear film
- Deeply soothes dry eye symptoms (burning, blurred vision, stinging)
- Reduces the risk of recurrent chalazion and blepharitis complications
- Prepares glands for evacuation with MeiboEvacuators
- Daily at-home use – easy, safe and scientifically proven method
8.2 OphthalmogenMeiboEvacuators – Professional Evacuation
- Targeted evacuation of Meibomian Glands blocked gland material
- Immediate relief from pain , pressure and irritation
- Restores normal lipid flow, που σταθεροποιεί το δακρυϊκό φιλμ
- Restores normal lipid flow, stabilizing the tear film
- Reduces the risk of recurrent chalazion and chronic blepharitis
- Professional, safe and effective method, complements thermotherapy (Ophthalmogen EYE10), συμπληρώνει τη θερμοθεραπεία (OphthalmogenEYE10)
- Long-lasting results – recommended every 6-12 months for prevention and maintenance
8.3 Eyelid Cleansing with Naviblef – Daily Hygiene
- Removes makeup, sebum and microbes
- Contains Tea Tree Oil in the right concentration for daily use
- The Golden Standard in eyelid hygiene
8.4 Daily Eyelid Massage with Ophthalmogen Gel
- Soothes and hydrates the sensitive eyelid skin
- Increases blood circulation, enhancing oxygenation and tissue revitalization
- Unclogs meibomian glands and improves tear flow
- Reduces blepharitis symptoms (redness, itching, tearing, stinging)
- Decreases oiliness and Demodex deposits
- Promotes a youthful and refreshed eye appearance
8.5 Daily Eyelid Spray with Ophthalmogen Spray
- Εύκολη &γρήγορη εφαρμογή
- Μειώνει Demodex& βακτήρια
- Ανακουφίζει από ερεθισμό & κοκκίνισμα
- Strengthens eyelashes and helps maintain their ideal curvature, protecting the tear film
- Κατάλληλο για χρήστες φακών επαφής, extensions & makeup
9. The importance of hydration and anti-inflammatory action
- Η σημασία της ενυδάτωσης και της αντιφλεγμονώδους δράσης
Artificial tears are an essential adjunct in the management of MGD.
Visionlux Plus&Visionlux Plus DUO ophthalmic solutions
- 0.30% hyaluronic acid + vitamin B12
- Deep hydration and stabilization of the tear film
- Long-lasting comfort thanks to P-Plus
- DUO pack for convenience and economy
Navitae Plus ophthalmic solution
- 0.15% hyaluronic acid + vitamins A & E
- Antioxidant and regenerative action
- Enhances tear quality and supports night vision
NaviInfla natural ophthalmic solution
- Natural anti-inflammatory action (without affecting intraocular pressure like corticosteroids)
- Reduces redness and ocular surface irritation
- Soothes dryness and discomfort caused by unstable tear film
- Improves daily comfort in screen use, contact lenses and environmental exposure
- In combination with Visionlux Plus &Navitae Plus, offers a complete regimen: hydration, nourishment and natural anti-inflammatory support for healthier-white eyes and stable vision
10. Prevention
- Daily eyelid hygiene with Ophthalmogen / Naviblef
- Careful removal of makeup
- Limiting eyelash extensions
- Protection from pollution and allergens
- Regular use of self-heating compresses and gland evacuations
11. Conclusion
MGD is the hidden cause behind many ocular and aesthetic problems.
With the complete approach of the Ophthalmogen line and daily cleansing with Naviblef, you can keep your eyes and eyelashes healthy, comfortable and beautiful.
Discover the Ophthalmogen line today.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) falls within the scientific framework of the intersection between Ophthalmology and Dermatology, known as Dermophthalmology – a novel medical approach that emphasizes the importance of comprehensive eye and eyelid care.
Η Δερμοφθαλμολογία αποτελεί μια καινοτόμα ιατρική ειδικότητα που συνδυάζει τη Δερματολογία με την Οφθαλμολογία. Μάθετε περισσότερα στο www.dermophthalmology.com.
