In-Office Procedures · Thermal Pulsation

LipiFlow Thermal pulsation for meibomian glands.

The TearScience LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System is an in-office device that applies localized heat and pressure therapy to the eyelids. It is used for adult patients with chronic cystic conditions of the eyelids, including meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

TearScience LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System
12 minAutomated treatment time
6 to 8 wksWhen results can be experienced
Up to 12 moContinued benefit reported by many patients
1 dropTopical anesthetic; no other drugs required

How it works

Designed to improve gland function

Obstructed meibomian glands are warmed with controlled heat and simultaneously massaged to remove the oil trapped within the glands. The automated treatment is designed to help clear the gland obstruction and support gland function.

Designed to help unblock the glands

An automated eyelid treatment designed to help unblock obstructed meibomian glands and support gland oil production.

Heat and massage together

Controlled heat is designed to melt the oil trapped in the glands while gentle massage helps clear it, in a single step.

Comfortable for patients

In the vast majority of patients, no pain or discomfort was reported. Patients can relax during the 12 minute treatment.

Minimal medication

Other than an initial topical anesthetic drop before treatment, no other drugs are required.

Results that can last

Results can be experienced 6 to 8 weeks after treatment and may vary with MGD severity. Many patients see continued benefit for up to 12 months.

The science behind TearScience LipiFlow

LipiFlow combines three elements in one automated treatment: vectored delivery, thermal energy and pulsation.

  • 12 minute automated treatment
  • Localized heat and pressure
  • Built for efficiency and performance
  • Vectored

    Therapy is directed at the eyelids, where the meibomian glands sit.

  • Thermal

    Controlled heat warms the obstructed glands to help melt the trapped oil.

  • Pulsation

    Gentle, simultaneous massage helps remove the melted oil and clear the obstruction.

The procedure

What the treatment involves

LipiFlow is performed in the office as a single automated session.

Patient receiving a LipiFlow treatment with Activators in place

Before treatment

A topical anesthetic drop is applied. No other drugs are required.

12 minute session

The glands are warmed with controlled heat and massaged at the same time while the patient relaxes.

After treatment

Results can be experienced 6 to 8 weeks after treatment and may vary depending on MGD severity. Many patients see continued benefit for up to 12 months.

Order LipiFlow

Specifications and safety information

Technical specifications
Technology Vectored thermal pulsation
Therapy Localized heat and pressure
Treatment time 12 minutes
Anesthesia Topical anesthetic drop
Patient population Adults
Indications for use

The LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation System is intended for the application of localized heat and pressure therapy in adult patients with chronic cystic conditions of the eyelids, including meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), also known as evaporative dry eye or lipid deficiency dry eye.

Common questions about LipiFlow

What does the LipiFlow treatment do?

It is an eyelid massage designed to help unblock the meibomian glands. The glands are heated and gently massaged to melt the oil trapped within them, which can help clear the obstruction and support gland function.

How long does treatment take?

The treatment takes 12 minutes, and the patient can relax while the system works.

Is the treatment painful?

In the vast majority of patients, no pain or discomfort was reported.

Are any drugs needed?

Other than an initial topical anesthetic drop prior to treatment, no other drugs are required.

When will patients see results?

Results can be experienced 6 to 8 weeks after treatment and may vary depending on the severity of MGD. Many patients see continued benefit for up to 12 months.

Bring LipiFlow to your practice

A 12 minute in-office treatment that applies localized heat and pressure designed to address meibomian gland obstruction in adults with MGD.

TearScience LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System is a trademark of Johnson & Johnson Vision. Review the full manufacturer instructions for use, including all warnings, precautions and contraindications, before use. Individual results vary.