Meibography in Nampa ID | EnVision Dry Eye Center

A closer look at the glands that help keep your tears stable

What is meibography?

Meibography creates images of the meibomian glands inside your eyelids. These glands supply oil to the tear film. When their structure or function changes, your tears may become less stable and your eyes may feel irritated or water excessively.

The images help Dr. Jason Besecker assess gland structure alongside the quality of the oil, the ease with which it is expressed, your symptoms, and other examination findings.

What can the images show?

Meibography can reveal differences in gland shape, shortening, and areas where glands are not clearly visible. These findings are sometimes described as gland dropout or gland loss. Image quality and the surrounding tissue can affect what is seen.

An image of gland structure does not directly measure how well each gland is working. A person can have symptoms with relatively preserved gland structure, and visible gland changes do not tell us everything about symptom severity.

What happens during the test?

Imaging generally involves gently turning the eyelid outward so the gland bearing surface can be photographed. You may notice brief pressure or a pulling sensation while the eyelid is positioned. Tell the team if you are uncomfortable so we can adjust.

The test documents gland structure; it does not treat a blockage or restore a gland. Dr. Besecker will explain what your images mean in the context of your examination.

How can meibography guide care?

If meibomian gland dysfunction is contributing to your symptoms, the findings can help frame a discussion about eyelid care, gland directed treatments, and realistic expectations. Treatment selection also depends on inflammation, gland secretions, tear stability, and the health of the ocular surface.

Repeat imaging may help document structural findings over time when clinically useful. Follow up decisions also consider how you feel and how your eyes function; a single image should not determine the entire plan.

How does it fit into a comprehensive evaluation?

Meibography looks at gland structure. Tear breakup testing evaluates tear stability, osmolarity assesses tear concentration, and staining helps reveal surface changes. Combining these views helps identify the factors that matter most for your eyes.

Related Question: What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

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Ready to take the next step? Let’s find out what is behind your dry eye symptoms. Request an evaluation at EnVision Dry Eye Center in Nampa, serving Boise, Meridian, Caldwell, and the Treasure Valley.

EnVision Dry Eye Center
3752 E Amity Avenue, Suite 103
Nampa, Idaho 83687
(208) 490-8823

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Medically reviewed by Jason Besecker, OD, MS
Last updated: October 2026

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