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Lid massage has no effect on corneal topography
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Gentle eyelid massage following the application of warm compresses for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction does not cause corneal molding or other clinically relevant effects, according to a study.
Eyelid warming and massage are commonly recommended as a treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). However, concerns have been raised about the potential effects of this procedure on the cornea.
In a study involving 20 subjects with MGD, corneal topography was used to evaluate changes produced by eyelid massage performed after the application of warm compresses.
MGDRx Eye Bag (The EyeBagCo Ltd) compresses, microwaved to the temperature of 40.2°C, were used by all participants for 10 minutes on both eyes. One eye was then randomly selected to be gently massaged, following precise instructions on the procedure. Corneal topography of both eyes was performed immediately and 30 minutes later and was compared to the measurements taken before the procedure.
No significant differences in corneal eccentricity were found in either the massaged or the nonmassaged eye. Visual acuity improved in both eyes after the treatment, most likely due to improved tear film quality, with a slight tendency toward better vision in the massaged eye. No increase in corneal staining or hyperemia was observed.
The authors concluded that the procedure is safe, but pointed out that “even though no remarkable short-term effect on the cornea was found, a long-term impact on the corneal integrity with repeated warming and massaging cannot be excluded and also cannot be confirmed.” – by Michela Cimberle
Disclosure: Riede-Pult reports no financial disclosures. Please see the full study for all other authors’ financial disclosures.
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