What Is Meibography?

Meibography is a non-invasive imaging assessment used to visualise the structure and condition of the meibomian glands — the oil-producing glands located within the upper and lower eyelids. These glands play a vital role in maintaining tear film stability by releasing lipids that help slow tear evaporation.

At Réspa – Optometry & Dry Eye Wellness Centre, meibography allows our Hong Kong–registered optometrists to view your meibomian glands in high detail and assess whether they are structurally healthy. This information is essential in understanding evaporative dry eye–related changes and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Why Meibography Matters

Healthy meibomian glands are key to ocular comfort and tear film balance. When glands become blocked, inflamed, or structurally altered, the protective lipid layer of the tear film may be compromised — often contributing to evaporative dry eye–related symptoms.

Meibography helps us to:

• Identify early gland changes, even before significant symptoms arise

• Assess the extent and pattern of meibomian gland alteration

• Support personalised management recommendations, such as IPL, thermal therapies, gland expression, or lifestyle guidance

• Monitor gland structure over time to track changes and response to care

Because tear film quality directly affects both comfort and visual clarity, meibography is a cornerstone assessment in a comprehensive dry eye evaluation.

Before the Test

For optimal imaging quality, please attend your appointment:

• Without eye makeup or creams around the eyes

• Without wearing contact lenses

No eye drops, dilation, or special preparation is required.

How the Test Is Performed

Meibography is quick, comfortable, and completely non-contact.

• You will be seated with your chin and forehead supported by the imaging device

• The optometrist will guide your gaze toward a fixation target

• Gentle eyelid positioning may be used to allow clear visualisation of the glands

• Images of both the upper and lower eyelids are captured individually

The entire process takes only a few minutes, and you may resume normal activities immediately afterward.

Interpreting the Results

Your meibography images allow us to assess:

• Meibomian gland structure and length

• Areas of gland dropout or shortening

• Signs of obstruction or irregularity

• Overall gland health in relation to tear film stability

Your results will be reviewed with you during the consultation and considered alongside other assessment findings to guide personalised care recommendations.

Why This Matters for Your Care at Réspa

At Réspa – Optometry & Dry Eye Wellness Centre, meibography is an integral part of our personalised dry eye assessment process. By gaining a clear understanding of your gland structure and tear film dynamics, we can:

• Tailor management strategies to your specific dry eye profile

• Address contributing factors rather than focusing only on symptoms

• Monitor changes over time with objective imaging

• Select supportive in-clinic therapies, where appropriate, to enhance tear film stability

This detailed insight allows us to design a care plan that is precise, considered, and aligned with your individual eye comfort and long-term visual wellness goals.