What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have dry eye:

  • Burning or stinging
  • Blurry or fluctuating vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Irritation that worsens in dry environments like airplanes or air-conditioned rooms

Dry eye is one of the most common reasons patients visit our clinic, and if left untreated, it can significantly impact quality of life.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye may be caused or worsened by:

  • Aging, especially after menopause
  • Autoimmune disorders or systemic conditions like diabetes
  • Medications, including antihistamines or decongestants
  • Prolonged screen time
  • Environmental factors such as dry air or wind
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Innovative Treatments That Target the Root Cause

Chu Vision Institute offers both traditional and advanced treatment options. One of our most effective therapies is intense pulsed light (IPL)—a revolutionary technology that treats the underlying causes of dry eye.

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What Is IPL Therapy for Dry Eye?

Originally developed for dermatology, IPL therapy uses pulses of light to gently heat the area around the eyes, helping:

  • Improve meibomian gland function (oil production for tears)
  • Reduce inflammation and abnormal blood vessels
  • Restore natural tear film balance
  • Enhance skin appearance as an added bonus

What to Expect With IPL Therapy Comfortable, Convenient, and No Downtime

At Chu Vision Institute, your treatment begins with a personalized consultation and eye exam. IPL is performed in-office and takes just minutes, with no downtime required. Most patients return to normal activities immediately after.

Many people notice improvement after the first session, though a series of treatments may be recommended. Dr. Chu will create a customized plan tailored to your specific needs.

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Why Patients Choose Chu Vision Institute for Dry Eye

  • Expertise: Dr. Chu has over 25 years of experience treating dry eye and corneal conditions.
  • Technology: Among the first in the U.S. to adopt IPL therapy for dry eye relief.
  • Comprehensive care: We address the root cause, not just symptoms.
  • Patient trust: Dr. Chu is a nationally recognized leader in vision care and deeply committed to personal, compassionate treatment.

Next Steps See Our Affordable Financing and Payment Options

Learn More About Financing Options
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Client Testimonials

I was diagnosed with a cataract in my left eye in February 2005 eye doctor set me up with Dr Chu who did the surgery. I had worn glasses since the 50’s after surgery I no ...

Brenda H.

PRK was the best decision I have ever done. I wouldn’t have explored surgery options with any other clinic or surgeon. Eye surgery is nerve racking, but Dr Chu and his tea...

Ciarra

I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision! Every aspect of my journey getting the Light Adjustable Lens' to correct my vision was wonderful. Can't say enough of Dr Chu and...

Maria B.

Dr. Chu is an excellent doctor. I felt confident in his knowledge and ability as a surgeon. He is a very kind and caring person and felt very comfortable with him. His staff is ...

Carol K.

I knew from the moment I walked into Chu Vision, this would be where I wanted to have my cataracts taken care of. The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. ...

Judy T.

Staff are friendly, waiting time is not long. The clinic is run like a well oiled machine!

Barb H.

My vision is fantastic! Amazing stuff!

Darcie N.

I had been in need of cataract surgery for a while. I was having trouble finding a surgeon that I wanted to touch my eyes! Then my son had Laser Surgery at Chu Institute and was...

Pattie H.

Even with my medical background, this was out of my area of expertise, so I was pretty nervous. Quickly I was reassured by their very comprehensive examination, excellent profes...

Orlando

Very thorough, professional, and uplifting

Carolyn S.

The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic. They are careful to answer one's questions, diligent about prepping for surgery, and of course the surgeons are top notch....

Jeffrey S.

I had never had cataract surgery before, so thus was unexplored territory for me. The preparatory videos, however, were invaluable. I had numerous follow-up phone calls from Chu...

Brian M.

I had LASIK done at Chu Vision today. I was so impressed with every step of the process. They have clearly thought of each step of the client experience. I am confident in the f...

Kielyn S.

I have been going to Chu Vision for annual eye appointments for eight years.  All annual appointments were done by caring professionals.   This year, the need for cata...

Linda U.

Chu Vision was recommended to me by a friend and I could not be happier with the facility and staff. Everyone was always so friendly, you can tell they all really enjoy what the...

Mara M.

Light tunable cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Everyone ...

Rick M.

I had the EVO ICL procedure done and am so happy with the results!! It’s crazy to think I won’t need contacts or glasses anymore, and waking up each morning being ab...

Andrea E.

This was by far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to.  They are so polite and caring.  Dr. Chu absolutely knows what he is doing and so personable.   Gr...

JoEllen S.

Absolute the Cadillac of any business I have been a part of. Excellent communication, empathic nurses and techs, excellent doctors, and best of all- my vision! I am blown away b...

Becky H.

If every health care facility operated as seamlessly and as patient oriented as this one, we would have truly compassionate, passionate and professional services that rival none...

Anonymous

I had a refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure with Chu nearly 2 years ago, and I still think about how much it has improved my day-to-day life nearly every day! I had extreme...

Karla R.

Chu Vision is a highly professional and extremely caring Institute. My  cataract surgery went well and Dr. Chu and his entire staff were amazing!  They truly cared for...

Sherri R.

I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision!

I had the Implantable Contact Lens(ICL) procedure done at Chu Vision Institute, and I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision! I ha...

Jackie O.

I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are.

I am so impressed with this clinic from start to finish. They are a well-oiled machine, and have clearly considered the patient experience all the way through. I felt comfortabl...

Kielyn S.

I can now drive without glasses.

Chu Vision did a great job. From the initial evaluations through the cataract surgery I had on both of my eyes. Everything went smoothly and as planned. It has now been three mo...

Mike K.

The team there made you feel comfortable and at ease

I had cataract surgery. The care was unbelievable the team there made you feel comfortable and at ease. All my follow up visits was all about my healing process and even the pho...

Willie F.

My life has been forever changed

I walked into Chu Vision and my life has been forever changed. I had been wearing glasses for almost 25years and after doing my research chose Dr. Chu for my surgery. I cannot c...

Bridget V.
Read More From Our Clients

“The trust my patients place in my staff and me is what I treasure the most

My goal is to empower patients through education so they can make the best decisions possible to improve their vision and transform their lives."

-Dr. Chu

Doctor Chu
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Dry Eye Treatment All Your Questions Answered

What is dry eye syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. It causes irritation, blurry vision, and discomfort.

How does IPL therapy treat dry eye?

IPL uses pulses of light to heat the area around the eyes, improving oil gland function and reducing inflammation to restore natural tear production.

Is IPL therapy safe?

Yes. IPL is a non-invasive, in-office treatment with minimal side effects. It’s safe and effective when performed by experienced professionals like our team at Chu Vision Institute.

How soon will I notice results?

Many patients experience improvement after one session, though optimal results usually come from a series of treatments. Dr. Chu will tailor your plan accordingly.

What does dry eye feel like?

It can feel like burning, stinging, or eye fatigue, and it often worsens in dry environments. For many, it’s a daily source of frustration and discomfort that affects vision and quality of life.

Find Relief from Dry Eye Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re tired of the burning, irritation, or blurry vision that comes with dry eyes, schedule your personalized consultation at Chu Vision Institute in Bloomington, MN. We proudly serve patients from Minneapolis, St. Paul, and throughout the Twin Cities.

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