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Ocular Surface Disease·Laguna Woods, Orange County

Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) Treatment in Laguna Woods, California

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

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that attacks moisture-producing glands throughout the body. The lacrimal glands are a primary target, causing severe aqueous-deficient dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) that is often more debilitating than typical dry eye. Patients experience persistent burning, grittiness, light sensitivity, and fluctuating vision. When standard dry eye treatments (drops, punctal plugs, anti-inflammatory therapy) are insufficient, scleral lenses provide continuous corneal hydration and dramatically improve comfort and visual quality.

For Laguna Woods's mature residents, sjögren's syndrome (ocular) management takes into account age-related changes, current medications, and overall health goals to create a practical, effective treatment plan.

Dr. Bonakdar on Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert sjögren's syndrome (ocular) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Laguna Woods 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 Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular)?

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that attacks moisture-producing glands throughout the body. The lacrimal glands are a primary target, causing severe aqueous-deficient dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) that is often more debilitating than typical dry eye. Patients experience persistent burning, grittiness, light sensitivity, and fluctuating vision. When standard dry eye treatments (drops, punctal plugs, anti-inflammatory therapy) are insufficient, scleral lenses provide continuous corneal hydration and dramatically improve comfort and visual quality.

How is Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) treated?

Treatment options include Scleral Contact Lens Fitting, Autologous Serum Eye Drops, Punctal Occlusion, Topical Cyclosporine (Restasis) or Lifitegrast (Xiidra). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular)?

Common symptoms include Severe dry eye with burning and grittiness, Light sensitivity, Blurred vision that fluctuates throughout the day, Dry mouth (often concurrent), Difficulty wearing standard contact lenses. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular)?

Laguna Woods's active adults should be particularly attentive to these warning signs, as age-related changes can cause symptoms to develop gradually:

  • Severe dry eye with burning and grittiness
  • Light sensitivity
  • Blurred vision that fluctuates throughout the day
  • Dry mouth (often concurrent)
  • Difficulty wearing standard contact lenses
  • Recurrent corneal erosions
  • Filamentary keratitis

How is Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) treated?

For Laguna Woods's mature patients, treatment selection accounts for existing medications, systemic health conditions, and quality-of-life priorities:

Scleral Contact Lens Fitting
Autologous Serum Eye Drops
Punctal Occlusion
Topical Cyclosporine (Restasis) or Lifitegrast (Xiidra)
IPL Therapy
Oral Pilocarpine or Cevimeline
Moisture Chamber Goggles

Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) FAQs for Laguna Woods Patients

Common questions from Laguna Woods patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose sjögren's syndrome (ocular) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Laguna Woods's mature adults, we incorporate age-related screening and medication review as part of the diagnostic process, since systemic conditions can affect results.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for sjögren's syndrome (ocular) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Laguna Woods's senior patients, we select treatments with attention to medication interactions, dexterity considerations, and overall comfort for long-term management.
Call (949) 323-3600 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Laguna Woods's senior patients appreciate our unhurried appointments and clear communication about treatment timelines and what to expect at each visit.
We accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, and Medicare for sjögren's syndrome (ocular) 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

Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) Care for Laguna Woods Residents

Laguna Woods patients seeking care for sjögren's syndrome (ocular) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. For Laguna Woods's active adult community, we take a comprehensive approach that considers age-related risk factors, medication interactions, and quality-of-life priorities. 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 Laguna Woods

Active adult 55+ retirement community with exceptional amenities

Population: 16,000+

RetireesActive seniorsGolfersSocial community

Languages Spoken in Laguna Woods

Our practice serves the diverse Laguna Woods community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishKoreanMandarin

Eye Health Priorities for Laguna Woods

  • Cataracts and cataract surgery co-management
  • Glaucoma screening and management
  • Macular degeneration monitoring
  • Diabetic eye disease screening
  • Low vision aids and rehabilitation

Conveniently Located Near Laguna Woods Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Laguna Woods patients living near:

Laguna Woods Village
Laguna Woods Village Golf Courses
Laguna Woods Village Clubhouses
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center

Getting to Our Office from Laguna Woods

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
12.4 mi

Laguna Woods 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

Laguna Woods Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Laguna Woods Village

Zip codes: 92637

Why Laguna Woods Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular)

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating sjögren's syndrome (ocular).

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 Laguna Woods

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Laguna Woods 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 Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) Specialist in Laguna Woods

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a California-licensed Optometrist (O.D.) with over 35 years of experience treating sjögren's syndrome (ocular) 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 Laguna Woods

See why your neighbors in Laguna Woods 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 Sjögren's Syndrome (Ocular) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Laguna Woods and Orange County residents.

Call (949) 323-3600

We don't take Medi-Cal