Suffering from Dry, Gritty, or Burning Eyes?
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Are You Experiencing Symptoms of Dry Eye?

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About

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye disease, which is also known as dry eye, occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears you do produce aren't of good quality. Your tears act as a protective coating that keeps your eyes comfortable and your vision clear.

When this system isn't working properly, it can lead to discomfort and even vision problems. Dry eye can affect everyone differently, but here are the most common signs our patients report:

  • A gritty or sandy feeling, like something is in your eye
  • Burning or stinging sensations
  • Eyes that feel tired or heavy
  • Redness and irritation
  • Blurry vision that comes and goes
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
  • Problems with night vision or glare sensitivity
  • Watery eyes (your body's attempt to compensate for dryness)
  • Mucus discharge
  • Light sensitivity
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Common Causes of Dry Eye

While some patients assume dry eye is a temporary condition caused by things like prolonged screen time, it often becomes chronic due to underlying causes such as hormonal changes, health conditions, environmental factors, and certain medications. Finding long-lasting relief directly hinges on pinpointing the root cause of your dry eye and getting the right treatment for your individual needs.

At NOVA Eye Experts, our dry eye specialists take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, including a detailed questionnaire, a tear film assessment, and a tear break-up time test. These tests provide a comprehensive picture of your dry eye condition and help us develop the most effective treatment plan for you.

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Advanced

Dry Eye Treatment at NOVA Eye Experts

NOVA Eye Experts offers several advanced treatments for dry eye, depending on the cause and severity of your condition:

Prescription Medications

Several FDA-approved medications can help increase tear production and reduce inflammation.

Lacrifill

This biocompatible hydrogel offers a modern alternative to traditional punctal plugs for treating dry eye symptoms. When injected directly into the tear ducts, it swells to form a cushioned blockage that prevents tears from draining too quickly.

BlephEx

BlephEx is a clinical eyelid cleaning procedure that removes bacteria, debris, and oils from the lid margins to treat dry eye disease and blepharitis. This treatment reduces inflammation-related discomfort and promotes healthier ocular function.

OptiLIGHT

OptiLight uses a precise, broad-spectrum light therapy to reduce inflammation associated with dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. This clinically proven, non-invasive treatment typically involves 3-4 brief sessions spaced weeks apart, during which light is applied below the eyes to safely improve gland function.

OptiLIFT

OptiLIFT is a non-invasive device that uses Dynamic Muscle Stimulation below the eyelids to strengthen muscle tone and improve blinking function. This treatment addresses lower-lid laxity while enhancing meibomian gland function with radiofrequency (RF) technology, significantly improving tear stability and dry eye symptoms, with visible lifting and toning effects.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are tiny devices that your eye doctor can insert into your tear ducts to help keep tears on your eye's surface longer, essentially creating a natural reservoir for your tears. These can either be temporary or permanent, depending on your needs.

Why Choose NOVA Eye Experts?

Located in Northern Virginia, our practice was founded with the vision of creating a modern ophthalmology experience that blends medical expertise with compassionate care. Our team, led by experienced physicians and supported by highly trained staff, is committed to helping patients protect and enhance their vision.

We believe in more than just treating eyes—we believe in building trusted relationships. Every patient is welcomed into an environment where comfort, education, and respect are at the center of care. By combining advanced diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and a personalized approach, NOVA Eye Experts strives to deliver the highest quality outcomes with the warmth and attentiveness our patients deserve.

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Our Doctors

Meet Our Dry Eye Specialists

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Dr. Pham
Dr. Jacobs

What Our Patients Say

“Had optilight with Dr. Pham! She has all the advanced dry eye disease treatments! Love her bedside manners!”

- Krisha T.

“Dr. Jacobs is an excellent eye doctor. His office staff is professional, personable, and competent, and they made sure that I was seen in a timely manner. I highly recommend Dr. Jacobs and NOVA Eye Experts.”

- Zachary S.

"So happy to finally find a treatment that works for my dry eyes. Top-quality care, doctors, and facilities. Thank you, NOVA Eye Experts!”

- Daphne J.

Manassas Office

7900 Sudley Road, Suite 208
Manassas VA 20109

Warrenton Office

388 Hospital Drive,
Warrenton, VA 20186