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External Disease·University Hills, Orange County

Demodex Blepharitis Treatment in University Hills, California

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

Demodex blepharitis is an inflammatory eyelid condition caused by microscopic Demodex mites living in eyelash follicles. When these mites multiply excessively, they trigger chronic inflammation, irritation, and damage to the meibomian glands. The condition affects approximately 25 million Americans and is characterized by distinctive cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at the base of eyelashes.

Demodex Blepharitis affects the eyelids and surrounding structures, impacting both comfort and appearance. University Hills residents experiencing persistent lid symptoms should seek evaluation to distinguish between conditions that look similar but require different treatments.

Dr. Bonakdar on Demodex Blepharitis

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert demodex blepharitis diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills 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 Demodex Blepharitis?

Demodex blepharitis is an inflammatory eyelid condition caused by microscopic Demodex mites living in eyelash follicles. When these mites multiply excessively, they trigger chronic inflammation, irritation, and damage to the meibomian glands. The condition affects approximately 25 million Americans and is characterized by distinctive cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at the base of eyelashes.

How is Demodex Blepharitis treated?

Treatment options include XDEMVY (lotilaner) prescription eye drops, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment), Tea tree oil-based lid scrubs. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis?

Common symptoms include Cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at eyelash base, Itchy, red, and irritated eyelids, Burning or stinging sensation, Crusty or sticky eyelashes upon waking, Foreign body sensation in eyes. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Demodex Blepharitis?

University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Cylindrical dandruff (collarettes) at eyelash base
  • Itchy, red, and irritated eyelids
  • Burning or stinging sensation
  • Crusty or sticky eyelashes upon waking
  • Foreign body sensation in eyes
  • Eyelash loss or misdirected lashes
  • Dry eye symptoms

How is Demodex Blepharitis treated?

Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

XDEMVY (lotilaner) prescription eye drops
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)
Tea tree oil-based lid scrubs
BlephEx eyelid exfoliation
Warm compresses and lid hygiene
LipiFlow thermal pulsation

Demodex Blepharitis FAQs for University Hills Patients

Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose demodex blepharitis using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. University Hills patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for demodex blepharitis including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each University Hills patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from University Hills, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for demodex blepharitis diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Demodex Blepharitis Care for University Hills Residents

Eyelid and adnexal conditions like demodex blepharitis are among the most common reasons patients visit our University Hills-area practice. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. While often not sight-threatening, these conditions affect comfort, appearance, and quality of life. Dr. Bonakdar provides precise diagnosis to distinguish between conditions that look similar but require different treatments, and offers both medical and procedural options depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition.

About University Hills

Academic community surrounding UC Irvine

Population: 15,000+

University studentsFaculty and staffGraduate studentsInternational students

Languages Spoken in University Hills

Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishMandarinKoreanVietnameseFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for University Hills

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:

University of California, Irvine
UCI Medical Center
Aldrich Park
University Town Center

Getting to Our Office from University Hills

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
6.7 mi

University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

University Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • University Park
  • UCI Campus Area

Zip codes: 92617

Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Demodex Blepharitis

Corneal Specialty Practice

Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including demodex blepharitis, with advanced slit lamp and topography diagnostics.

Scleral Lens Expertise

Custom scleral and specialty contact lens fittings for irregular corneas, dry eye, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Same-Day Urgent Visits

University Hills patients with acute corneal symptoms can often be seen the same day for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Coordinated Surgical Care

When corneal surgery is needed, we coordinate with top corneal surgeons and manage your complete pre- and post-operative care.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Demodex Blepharitis Specialist in University Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating demodex blepharitis and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from University Hills

See why your neighbors in University Hills 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 Demodex Blepharitis Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.