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Dry Eye·Mission Viejo, Orange County

Tratamiento de Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) en Mission Viejo, 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.

Mission Viejo families should know that meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) can affect patients of all ages. Our practice provides age-appropriate evaluation and treatment, with clear explanations that help every family member understand the care plan.

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 Mission Viejo 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)?

Parents and families in Mission Viejo should watch for these symptoms in both children and adults, as early detection significantly improves treatment 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?

We work with Mission Viejo families to select treatments that fit both the patient's needs and the family's schedule, with clear instructions parents and patients can follow at home:

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 Mission Viejo Patients

Common questions from Mission Viejo 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. For Mission Viejo families, we provide age-appropriate testing for children and adults alike, with clear explanations that help parents understand their child's diagnosis.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. We help Mission Viejo families choose treatments that fit the patient's age and the family's schedule, with follow-up plans designed around school and work calendars.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. We offer before- and after-school appointment times for Mission Viejo families, and can schedule siblings together to minimize trips to our office.
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 Mission Viejo Residents

Mission Viejo patients seeking care for meibomian gland dysfunction (mgd) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. We serve Mission Viejo families by making appointments efficient and educational, ensuring parents understand their child's diagnosis and every patient leaves with a clear care plan. 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 Mission Viejo

Largest master-planned community in the US with exceptional schools and safety

Population: 94,000+

Affluent familiesHigh educational attainmentActive lifestyleCommunity-oriented

Languages Spoken in Mission Viejo

Our practice serves the diverse Mission Viejo community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishMandarinKoreanFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for Mission Viejo

  • Pediatric eye exams and vision screening
  • Myopia control and management
  • Sports vision for young athletes
  • Digital eye strain from screens
  • Learning-related vision problems

Conveniently Located Near Mission Viejo Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Mission Viejo patients living near:

Lake Mission Viejo
The Shops at Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo Country Club
Mission Hospital
Oso Creek Trail

Getting to Our Office from Mission Viejo

Drive Time
30 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
15 mi

Mission Viejo patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 30 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

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

Mission Viejo Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Lake Mission Viejo
  • Mission Viejo High School Area
  • Oso Creek

Zip codes: 92691, 92692, 92694

Why Mission Viejo 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 Mission Viejo

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Mission Viejo 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 Mission Viejo

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 Mission Viejo

See why your neighbors in Mission Viejo 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 Mission Viejo and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

No aceptamos Medi-Cal