Here at Downtown Vision, our doctors offer Forma-I radiofrequency (RF) technology to treat dry eye disease. RF is effective in liquefying clogged oil via bulk heat to the periorbital tissue, paired with a gentle massage to help improve the function of the Meibomian glands.

What is Forma-I?

Forma-I is the only radiofrequency treatment approved by Health Canada indicated to help improve dry eye disease secondary to meibomian gland dysfunction.  It delivers targeted bipolar radiofrequency energy to small, delicate ocular areas. Treatments are quick and easy and performed safely in-office with zero downtime. Patients may also experience skin rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction as part of the treatment as RF technology, which helps to stimulate collagen production.

Your Treatment

  • Preparation

    The patient should remove any debris, cream, or makeup from their eyelids and lashes prior to arrival.

  • Procedure

    Our optometrist uses a specialized instrument called the Forma-i to apply controlled radiofrequency energy to the meibomian glands located within the eyelids. This energy gently warms and expresses the glands, helping to release the thickened and obstructed meibum (lipid) that contributes to dry eyes. The combination of heat and meibomian gland expression improves the quality of the tear film by enhancing the lipid layer, which helps to prevent excessive evaporation of tears.

  • Duration

    The Forma-I treatment usually takes around 30 minutes for both eyes to complete. This is followed by a manual Meibomian gland expression for enhanced improvement of the glands. Patients may need an initial 4-6 treatment sessions, between 3-4 weeks apart for best results.

  • Post-Treatment Care

    After the treatment, patients may experience mild redness or temporary sensitivity. At-home therapy is often recommended to maintain or enhance treatment effects. Periodic maintenance treatment may be needed every 6-12 months after the initial sessions.

Am I a Candidate?

Forma-I is the only radiofrequency treatment approved by Health Canada to help improve dry eye disease secondary to meibomian gland dysfunction. While it is a highly successful procedure, dry eye is multifactorial, which means there are many different causes that may contribute to your symptoms. RF may be one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for you, or it may not be suitable based on the type of dry eye disease you are diagnosed with. We recommend that you see our optometrist for a dry eye assessment to evaluate your tears, oil glands and eyelids, so that a customized treatment plan can be created for you.