Skip to main content
Eye care service at EyeCare Center OC

Therapeutic Gland Expression in Orange County

Manual expression of meibomian glands to clear obstructions and analyze oil quality. Often performed after heating treatments.

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

Understanding Gland Expression

About Gland Expression

Heating the glands is only half the battle; the liquefied oil must be cleared out. Therapeutic Meibomian Gland Expression involves the doctor using specialized forceps or paddles to gently squeeze the glands of the upper and lower eyelids. This clears out "toothpaste-like" blockages and allows healthy, clear oil to begin flowing again.

Benefits of Gland Expression Treatment

  • Immediate removal of obstruction
  • Diagnostic feedback on oil quality
  • Prevents gland pressure buildup
  • Complements heat therapy

The Gland Expression Process

1

Heat

10-15 minutes of thermal mask or detailed heating.

15 min
2

Numbing

Anesthetic drops applied.

2 min
3

Expression

Doctor systematically expresses glands along lid margin.

5 min

Is Gland Expression Right for You?

Candidacy overview for Gland Expression

Good Candidates

  • MGD
  • Blocked glands
  • Thickened oil secretions

May Need Evaluation

  • !Active infection

Common Questions About Gland Expression

Schedule Your Consultation

Get expert gland expression care from Dr. Alexander Bonakdar

(949) 323-3600Book Online

Cost & Insurance

Typical Cost Range

$100 - $200

Insurance Coverage

Part of dry eye office visit codes (99213/99214) or specific procedure codes if applicable.

*Costs vary based on individual needs. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Eye Conditions We Treat

Related conditions diagnosed and managed at our practice:

Last reviewed: December 31, 2025

Medical content is reviewed regularly to ensure accuracy and reflect current best practices.

Schedule your therapeutic gland expression consultation

Conveniently located in Orange County

Same-Day Appointments

Often available

Convenient Location

Santa Ana, CA

Most insurance plans accepted • Flexible financing available

Request an Appointment

Schedule Your Therapeutic Gland Expression Consultation

Fill out the form below and our team will contact you to confirm your appointment. Or call us directly at (949) 323-3600

Loading appointment form…

HIPAA Compliant
Same-Day Callbacks

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your eye care professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Individual results may vary. The information on this site does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Related Reading

Related Conditions

  • Blepharitis

    Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids causing red, irritated, itchy eyelids and the formation of dandruff-like scales on eyelashes.…

  • Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

    Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is the leading cause of evaporative dry eye disease, affecting up to 86% of dry eye patients. The…

  • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

    Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva causing redness, itching, and discharge.

Related Services

  • Myopia Management & Control

    Advanced myopia management strategies to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children using Ortho-K, Stellest lenses, and Atropine.

  • LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation

    The FDA-approved gold standard for treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Clears blockages and restores oil flow in a single 12-minute…

Related Articles

Call (949) 323-3600