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Dry Eye·Los Alamitos, Orange County

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Treatment in Los Alamitos, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated April 2026

Meibomian gland dysfunction is the most common cause of dry eye. You have about 25 to 30 tiny oil glands in each eyelid. Their oil forms the top layer of your tear film and stops your tears evaporating. When the glands clog, the oil thickens, the layer thins and your tears dry off the eye within seconds. That is why MGD burns and stings more as the day goes on, and why plain artificial tears help for only a few minutes. The important part is this: blocked glands can be reopened, but glands that have already shrunk away do not grow back. Meibography imaging shows us which of your glands are still there, so we can treat before more are lost.

Los Alamitos residents managing meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) benefit from our efficient, comprehensive appointment structure—thorough evaluation and clear treatment planning in visits designed to respect your time.

Dr. Bonakdar on Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Los Alamitos and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

Meibomian gland dysfunction is the most common cause of dry eye. You have about 25 to 30 tiny oil glands in each eyelid. Their oil forms the top layer of your tear film and stops your tears evaporating. When the glands clog, the oil thickens, the layer thins and your tears dry off the eye within seconds. That is why MGD burns and stings more as the day goes on, and why plain artificial tears help for only a few minutes. The important part is this: blocked glands can be reopened, but glands that have already shrunk away do not grow back. Meibography imaging shows us which of your glands are still there, so we can treat before more are lost.

How is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) treated?

Treatment options include IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy, Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), Meibomian Gland Expression, Meibography Gland Imaging. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

Common symptoms include Dryness that gets worse through the day, Burning and stinging, Gritty or sandy feeling, like something is in the eye, Red, irritated eyes and red lid margins, Vision that blurs and then clears when you blink. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

If you or a family member in Los Alamitos experience any of the following symptoms, scheduling an evaluation sooner rather than later leads to better outcomes:

  • Dryness that gets worse through the day
  • Burning and stinging
  • Gritty or sandy feeling, like something is in the eye
  • Red, irritated eyes and red lid margins
  • Vision that blurs and then clears when you blink
  • Tired, heavy eyes by late afternoon
  • Sensitivity to light, wind and air conditioning

How is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) treated?

For Los Alamitos residents, we design treatment plans that balance effectiveness with convenience—minimizing follow-up visits while ensuring optimal outcomes:

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy
Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)
Meibomian Gland Expression
Meibography Gland Imaging
BlephEx Lid Debridement
Blink Training Exercises
Miebo (perfluorohexyloctane) Drops

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) FAQs for Los Alamitos Patients

Common questions from Los Alamitos patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Los Alamitos residents appreciate our efficient diagnostic process—thorough evaluation and results discussion in a single appointment that respects your schedule.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Los Alamitos commuters, we prioritize treatments that provide stable vision for driving and work, with follow-up schedules that minimize time away from your routine.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Conveniently located for Los Alamitos residents with ample parking and easy access, typically within a 15-25 minute drive from most neighborhoods.
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, and Medicare for meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) diagnosis and treatment. We don't take Medi-Cal. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Care for Los Alamitos Residents

Los Alamitos patients seeking care for meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Los Alamitos families trust our practice because we combine modern technology with the personal attention of a neighborhood eye doctor. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About Los Alamitos

Small family-oriented city with top-rated schools and military presence

Population: 15,000+

FamiliesMilitary personnelSchool-focused communityLong-term residents

Languages Spoken in Los Alamitos

Our practice serves the diverse Los Alamitos community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishKorean

Eye Health Priorities for Los Alamitos

  • Whole-family eye care
  • School vision screenings
  • Contact lens fittings for all ages
  • Progressive lens consultations
  • Annual comprehensive exams

Conveniently Located Near Los Alamitos Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Los Alamitos patients living near:

Los Alamitos Race Course
Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base
Little Cottonwood Park
Los Alamitos High School
Los Alamitos Medical Center

Getting to Our Office from Los Alamitos

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
12.5 mi

Los Alamitos patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 25 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Los Alamitos Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Rossmoor
  • Old Town Los Alamitos

Zip codes: 90720, 90721

Why Los Alamitos Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd).

Advanced Diagnostics

OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and most major vision and medical insurance plans. We do not accept Medi-Cal.

Convenient for Los Alamitos

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Los Alamitos and surrounding communities.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — Optometrist at EyeCare Center of Orange County specializing in keratoconus and scleral lenses
Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. — California-licensed Optometrist with 35+ years of specialty contact lens practice. Graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry.

Your Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Specialist in Los Alamitos

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) and complex eye conditions. A graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsIllinois College of Optometry
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Los Alamitos

See why your neighbors in Los Alamitos trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Los Alamitos and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal