A method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction. Heat is applied to the
outside of the eyelid to provide conductive heat transfer to the
meibomian glands. The application of heat assists in the expression of
obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands to restore sufficient
sebum flow to the lipid layer to treat dry eye. A force may also be
applied to the outside of the patient's eyelid to improve conductive heat
transfer and reduce blood flow in the eyelid that causes convective heat
loss. Thus, the application of force can further increase the temperature
level and/or reduce the time to reach desired temperature levels for
removing obstructions or occlusions. Reaching increased temperature
levels may improve the melting, loosening, or softening of obstructions
or occlusions in the meibomian glands while reducing the amount of time
to reach desired temperature levels and/or aid in reducing discomfort to
the patient during treatment.