When was the Last Time Your Eyes Weren't Dry & Painful?

Finally Get Lasting Relief from Burning, Itching, and Blurry Vision — Without Relying on Eye Drops

Schedule an Evaluation Call 1-800-DRY-EYES

FDA-cleared IPL, RF & LLLTSouthfield, MILed by Dr. Y. Shira Kresch, OD MS

Dry Eye Examination With Diagnostic Equipment

Southfield, Michigan

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments in the Metro Detroit area

Finally Get Lasting Relief from Burning, Itching, and Blurry Vision — Without Relying on Eye Drops

The 1-800-Dry-Eyes Vision Institute uses advanced, FDA-cleared technology — including Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), Radiofrequency (RF), and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) — to treat the root cause of dry eye disease, not just mask the symptoms. Located in Southfield, MI and serving patients across Metro Detroit, our dedicated dry eye clinic provides comprehensive diagnosis and customized treatment plans under the care of Dr. Shira Kresch.

Effective Dry Eye Relief

What Is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease (also called dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a chronic condition where your eyes either don’t produce enough tears or produce tears that evaporate too quickly. The result? Persistent burning, stinging, redness, light sensitivity, and blurry vision that interfere with your daily life.

Most cases of dry eye — up to 86% — involve Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a condition where the tiny oil-producing glands in your eyelids become blocked or damaged. Without a healthy oil layer, your tear film breaks down in seconds, leaving the surface of your eye exposed and irritated.

Effective Dry Eye Relief

Common causes and contributing factors

Treatment Plans

If you’ve been using artificial tears multiple times a day with only temporary relief, it’s time to find out what’s actually causing your symptoms. A comprehensive dry eye evaluation at our Southfield clinic can identify the root cause and put you on the path to lasting comfort.

Which dry eye pattern matches your symptoms?

Most people who use artificial tears for years have a specific pattern that was never properly identified. Take our 8-question self-assessment to see which one matches you.

Take the Self-Assessment →

Our Treatments

Dry Eyes services at The 1-800-DRY-EYES Vision Institute

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL therapy is a breakthrough, light-based treatment for evaporative dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. Using precise, calibrated pulses of light applied to the skin around the eyes, IPL reduces inflammation, eliminates abnormal blood vessels feeding the disease cycle, and destroys Demodex mites that contribute to blepharitis. Patients typically undergo a series of 3–4 sessions spaced several weeks apart, with many noticing significant improvement after the very first treatment. IPL also offers cosmetic benefits — reducing redness, improving skin texture, and treating ocular rosacea — making it a dual-purpose therapy that patients love.

Learn More About IPL for Dry Eye →

Radiofrequency (RF)

Radiofrequency treatment delivers gentle, controlled heat deep into the eyelid tissue to melt waxy blockages in the Meibomian glands. Unlike warm compresses that barely reach therapeutic temperatures, RF technology maintains a precise, consistent heat that effectively liquefies hardened meibum and restores natural oil flow to your tear film. The treatment is comfortable — most patients describe it as a warm, spa-like experience — and requires zero downtime. RF also stimulates collagen production in the periorbital skin, tightening and rejuvenating the delicate area around the eyes. It’s a medical treatment with real aesthetic benefits.

Learn More About RF for Dry Eye →

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT (also known as photobiomodulation) uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular energy production in the Meibomian glands. This gentle, non-invasive therapy increases blood flow, reduces inflammation at the cellular level, and supports the glands’ natural ability to produce healthy oils. LLLT is often used in combination with IPL and RF as part of our multi-modal treatment approach — attacking dry eye from every angle for maximum results.

Learn More About LLLT for Dry Eye →

All Dry Eye Treatments Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Shira Kresch, Specialty Contact Lens And Dry Eye Specialist In Michigan

Your Specialist

Meet Your Dry Eye Specialist

Dr. Shira Kresch, OD MS

Dr. Shira Kresch is a leading dry eye and specialty contact lens practitioner serving patients across Metro Detroit. With advanced training in ocular surface disease, scleral lens fitting, and in-office dry eye procedures, Dr. Kresch takes a thorough, root-cause approach to every case — combining detailed diagnostics with the latest treatment technology to deliver real, measurable improvement.

As the clinical lead at both the 1-800-Dry-Eyes Specialty Vision Institute and Michigan Contact Lens, Dr. Kresch has treated hundreds of patients with chronic dry eye, keratoconus, post-surgical complications, and complex contact lens needs. Her patients consistently praise her thoroughness, patience, and ability to succeed where other doctors have fallen short.

Learn More About Dr. Shira Kresch

Patient Reviews

What Our Patients Say About Their Dry Eye Treatments

“Great experience! The doctor was extremely thorough, took the time to explain everything clearly, and didn’t rush the exam. Definitely felt like I was getting high-quality care. Highly recommend!”

Verified patientvia Google

“After struggling with chronic dry eye for years, I decided to try their light therapy — and the results were remarkable. The treatment was comfortable, even enjoyable, and I could literally feel and see the blocked tear glands begin to clear as the session progressed. For the first time in a long time, my eyes felt naturally lubricated and clear.”

Verified patientvia Google

“Best optometric experience of all time. Dr. Kresch is so gentle and so knowledgeable. I felt like I got out of the chair with a new set of eyes.”

Verified patientvia Google

Specialty Lenses

Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye

For patients with severe or treatment-resistant dry eye, scleral contact lenses offer an additional layer of relief that no eye drop or in-office treatment can replicate. These large-diameter, custom-designed lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the white of the eye (the sclera), creating a fluid-filled reservoir that keeps the cornea constantly bathed in preservative-free saline throughout the day.

Scleral lenses are especially effective for dry eye caused by Sjögren’s syndrome, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and post-LASIK complications. As a division of Michigan Contact Lens — one of Michigan’s leading scleral lens practices — we’re uniquely positioned to combine in-office dry eye treatments with specialty lens fittings for a comprehensive approach.

Learn More About Scleral Lenses

Custom scleral contact lens fitting at 1-800-Dry-Eyes

Why Us

Why Patients Choose 1-800-Dry-Eyes

Triple-modality on site

One of the only Michigan clinics offering IPL, RF, and LLLT under one roof — and combining them when the case requires it.

Root-cause diagnostics

Every patient gets Meibography, tear breakup time, and osmolarity testing — not just a slit-lamp glance and a sample of artificial tears.

Scleral lens specialty

Backed by Michigan Contact Lens, one of the state's leading specialty lens practices, for cases where custom scleral lenses are the right answer.

Treatment-resistant cases welcome

When other doctors have said "just live with it," we look again. Our combined protocol succeeds where single-modality treatment elsewhere did not.

Personalized protocols

No two dry eye cases are the same. Your plan is built around your diagnostic results, lifestyle, and history — not pulled from a template.

Education-first care

You'll leave every visit knowing what we treated, why, and what comes next. Dr. Kresch takes the time to explain.

How It Works

Your Path to Lasting Dry Eye Relief

Step 1

Comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluation

Your journey begins with a thorough diagnostic assessment that goes far beyond a standard eye exam. We use advanced imaging and testing — including Meibography, tear breakup time analysis, and osmolarity testing — to identify the exact type and severity of your dry eye disease.

Step 2

Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on your diagnostic results, Dr. Kresch will design a custom treatment protocol tailored to your specific condition. This may include a combination of IPL, RF, LLLT, at-home therapies, nutritional guidance, and lid hygiene — all explained clearly so you understand exactly what we’re treating and why.

Step 3

In-Office Treatment Sessions

Most patients undergo a series of 3–4 treatment sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Each session takes approximately 15–30 minutes with no downtime, meaning you can return to your normal routine immediately.

Step 4

Long-Term Maintenance & Education

Dry eye is a chronic condition, but it’s manageable. We equip you with a personalized at-home maintenance plan and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed. Our goal is to keep you comfortable for the long term.

Conditions

Dry Eye Conditions We Treat in Southfield, MI

Our clinic treats the full spectrum of dry eye disease and related ocular surface conditions:

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) — The #1 cause of dry eye — blocked oil glands in the eyelids that starve your tear film of its protective lipid layer.

Evaporative Dry Eye — Rapid tear evaporation caused by MGD, environmental factors, or incomplete blinking.

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye — Insufficient tear production, often linked to autoimmune conditions or aging.

Demodex Blepharitis — Microscopic mites that infest eyelash follicles, causing chronic inflammation, irritation, and crusty lids.

Ocular Rosacea — An inflammatory condition that affects both the skin and the eyes, causing persistent redness, burning, and MGD.

Dry Eye After LASIK — Post-surgical dry eye caused by corneal nerve disruption during refractive procedures.

Contact Lens-Related Dry Eye — Discomfort, dryness, and reduced wearing time caused by contact lens use — and how to fix it.

Sjögren’s Syndrome & Autoimmune Dry Eye — Systemic autoimmune conditions that attack the tear-producing glands.

Learn More About Dry Eye Causes

From the Blog

Dry Eye Education & Resources

Why Are My Eyes Dry When I Wake Up? Causes of Morning Dry Eye You wake up, open your eyes, and they’re already burning. Maybe they feel gritty, like there’s sand under your lids. Maybe they’re stuck shut for Read more → Dry Eye and Screen Time: What’s Actually Happening to Your Eyes Screen-driven dry eye isn’t just ‘computer vision syndrome.’ What’s actually happening to your meibomian glands when you spend 10 hours a day on screens. Read more → Restasis Isn’t Working: When to Try Something Else Restasis, Xiidra, and other prescription dry eye drops work for specific mechanisms — and not for others. What to do when six months of drops haven’t helped. Read more →

Read all dry eye articles

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye Treatments

What does dry eye treatment cost?

The cost of dry eye treatment varies depending on the type and severity of your condition. IPL, RF, and LLLT treatments are typically not covered by insurance as they are considered elective procedures. We offer transparent pricing and flexible financing options to make treatment accessible. Contact us or visit our insurance and financing page for details.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

Most patients require 3–4 initial treatment sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart, followed by periodic maintenance treatments (typically every 6–12 months). Dr. Kresch will outline your specific treatment plan during your initial evaluation.

Does IPL treatment hurt?

Most patients describe IPL as a warm, mild snapping sensation — similar to a rubber band lightly tapping the skin. The treatment is very well tolerated and takes only 10–15 minutes. No anesthesia is required.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have dry eye?

Yes — but the type of lens matters. Many dry eye patients struggle with standard soft contact lenses but do exceptionally well with scleral lenses, which actually help protect and hydrate the eye throughout the day. As a specialty contact lens practice, we can fit you with the right lens for your condition.

What’s the difference between IPL, RF, and LLLT?

IPL uses light energy to reduce inflammation and kill Demodex mites. RF uses heat to melt Meibomian gland blockages and stimulate collagen. LLLT uses specific light wavelengths to boost cellular energy and promote gland health. Each targets a different aspect of dry eye disease, which is why we often combine all three for maximum results — see our full treatments overview.

Do you accept insurance for dry eye treatment?

The diagnostic evaluation portion of your visit may be covered by medical insurance. The in-office treatments (IPL, RF, LLLT) are typically considered elective and are not covered. We provide detailed receipts that you can submit to your insurer for potential reimbursement, and we offer financing options. More on insurance and financing.

How long do results last?

Most patients experience significant relief lasting 6–12 months after their initial treatment series. Maintenance sessions once or twice a year help sustain results. Ongoing at-home care (lid hygiene, warm compresses, omega-3 supplementation) also plays a key role in long-term comfort.

I’ve tried everything and nothing works. Can you still help?

Absolutely. We specialize in cases where standard treatments have failed. If you’ve been through rounds of eye drops, warm compresses, and even punctal plugs without lasting relief, our advanced triple-modality approach combined with specialty lens options can often succeed where others have not. Schedule a consultation — we’ll take a fresh look.

Visit Us

Visit the 1-800-Dry-Eyes Vision Institute in Southfield, MI

17000 W 10 Mile Road, Suite 151, Southfield, MI 48075

Phone: 1-800-DRY-EYES (1-800-379-3937)

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Serving patients from: Southfield, Birmingham, Royal Oak, Troy, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, Oak Park, Berkley, Novi, Livonia, Detroit, and surrounding Metro Detroit communities.

17000 W 10 Mile Rd, Suite 151, Southfield, MI 48075

1 (800) DRY-EYES

Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Request Your Dry Eye Evaluation

Tell us how to reach you and we will call within one business day to schedule. No obligation, and your initial dry eye consultation conversation is always free.