Potential benefits
- • Address suspected fixed meibomian gland obstruction
- • Relieve tenderness or pressure for selected patients
- • Allow additional gland-directed treatment
Meibomian Gland Probing for dry eye
A procedure that uses very fine probes to enter meibomian gland openings and address suspected obstruction.
What is Meibomian Gland Probing?
Meibomian gland probing is a clinician-performed procedure intended to open gland ducts and address fixed obstruction or scarring. It is more invasive than heating and expression.
How it works
After anesthetic is applied, a trained clinician inserts a very fine probe into selected gland openings. Protocols and follow-up treatment vary.
Risks and limitations
- • Pain, bleeding, swelling, infection, inflammation, or gland injury are possible
- • Evidence is limited compared with more established dry eye treatments
- • It requires careful patient selection and an experienced clinician
Questions to ask a clinic
Why do you suspect fixed obstruction in my case?
How many glands do you plan to probe, and what aftercare is required?
What findings from my eye examination support this treatment?
What alternatives should I consider first?
How will we measure whether it is helping?
What will the total treatment and follow-up cost be?
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Related treatments
References
- Intraductal meibomian gland probing in obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction — Cornea
- TFOS DEWS II Management and Therapy Report — The Ocular Surface
Last reviewed June 11, 2026. This page is educational and does not provide medical advice. Discuss diagnosis, suitability, risks, and alternatives with a qualified eye-care professional.