What is meibography?
Meibography is an imaging technique that uses infrared light to photograph the meibomian glands — the oil-producing glands that run along the upper and lower eyelid margins.
These glands produce meibum, the lipid layer of the tear film. When they are blocked, atrophied, or structurally compromised (a condition called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or MGD), the tear film evaporates too quickly — the root cause of most evaporative dry eye.
Meibography makes the glands visible directly. The images show their shape, length, and whether gland dropout (permanent atrophy) has occurred.
Does Spadina Optometry offer meibography?
Yes. Meibography is available at Spadina Optometry in downtown Toronto as part of an advanced dry eye assessment.
It is used when there is clinical reason to evaluate meibomian gland health more closely — not as a routine add-on for every patient.
Why does it matter for dry eye diagnosis?
Symptoms alone do not tell the full story. Patients with significant gland damage can have relatively mild symptoms early on, and patients with severe symptoms can have structurally intact glands with a different underlying cause.
Meibography helps by:
- Showing gland dropout or atrophy that is not visible from symptoms alone
- Distinguishing evaporative dry eye (MGD-driven) from aqueous-deficient dry eye
- Supporting a more targeted treatment plan rather than a generic one
- Providing a baseline image to track treatment response or disease progression over time
Who should consider a meibography assessment?
Meibography is most clinically useful for patients with:
- Chronic dry eye that has not improved with standard treatment (drops, lid hygiene)
- Significant Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or blepharitis
- Contact lens discomfort without a clear explanation
- Fluctuating vision that worsens through the day
- Pre-surgical evaluation before LASIK, cataract surgery, or other refractive procedures — gland health affects surgical outcomes and recovery
What other advanced dry eye diagnostics are available?
In addition to meibography, a dry eye assessment at Spadina Optometry may include:
- Tear film evaluation — assessing tear quality, stability, and composition
- Eyelid margin assessment — evaluating lid anatomy, gland orifices, and signs of inflammation
- Symptom-based clinical scoring — structured intake to identify triggers, patterns, and severity
The diagnostics recommended depend on your symptoms, history, and what is found during the exam. Not every patient needs every test.
Is meibography covered by OHIP?
No. Meibography is not covered by OHIP.
It may be eligible for partial reimbursement through third-party insurance, depending on your policy. We explain all applicable fees before any additional testing is performed — you will not be surprised by a bill.
See OHIP eligibility and coverage for more on what is and is not covered.
What does the imaging feel like?
Meibography is non-invasive. An infrared camera images the eyelids — there is no contact with the eye itself. The procedure is quick, typically takes less than a minute per eye, and most patients find it comfortable.
Related pages
Ready to assess your meibomian glands?
We offer meibography and advanced dry eye diagnostics as part of a structured dry eye assessment at our downtown Toronto clinic.
Prefer to talk first? Call or text us at 416-703-2797.
Last reviewed: February 23, 2026