Skip to content
The Eye Clinic

Dry Eye Treatment

Dry, gritty, watery or tired eyes are among the most common reasons people seek help — and among the most treatable. The key is finding what's actually causing it, then managing it properly.

Understanding dry eye

Dry eye disease has many causes — from the tear film and eyelid glands to your environment and screen habits. Watery eyes can, surprisingly, be a sign of it too. We assess what's driving your symptoms before recommending treatment.

How we treat it

Treatment is tailored to you. It may include in-clinic procedures such as low-level light therapy (LLLT), alongside a home-care regimen designed to restore comfort and improve the health of the eye's surface over time.

Dry eye and Sjögren's syndrome

Sometimes dry eye is part of something bigger. Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system affects the glands that make tears and saliva — so persistent, significant dry eye alongside a dry mouth can be one of its first signs.

Because dry eye linked to Sjögren's tends to be more severe and long-lasting, it's worth recognising. Where we suspect it, we assess the eye surface carefully, manage the dryness properly, and work alongside your GP or rheumatologist so the whole picture is looked after — not just the symptoms.

What you might notice

  • A dry, gritty or sandy feeling
  • Burning or stinging
  • Watery eyes (yes, really)
  • Blurred vision that clears when you blink
  • Tired, heavy eyes — especially on screens
  • Redness or general irritation

Recognise these? Book a consultation and we'll help you get to the bottom of it.

Visit us

A calm, purpose-built clinic in Te Aro

From the moment you arrive, everything is designed around unhurried, personal care — modern technology in a space that feels calm, not clinical.

See the clinic
Reception at The Eye Clinic's new Te Aro clinic in Wellington

Common questions

Can dry eye be cured?
Dry eye is usually managed rather than cured in a single visit — but with the right plan, most people get real, lasting relief. We treat the underlying cause, not just the symptoms.
Why are my eyes watery if they're dry?
It sounds odd, but watering is a common sign of dry eye — the eye over-produces tears to compensate for an unstable tear film. Getting the cause assessed is the first step to fixing it.
Will drops from the pharmacy fix it?
They can ease symptoms, and they're a sensible first step. But if drops alone aren't cutting it, that usually means the underlying cause needs treating — so we look at what's actually driving it rather than just topping up tears.
Does screen time make it worse?
It can. We blink far less when we're concentrating on a screen, which lets the tear film dry out. Regular breaks, screen position and a conscious blink all help — we'll show you what works for your eyes.
How long until my eyes feel better?
It depends on the cause and how long it's been going on, but many people notice a real difference within a few weeks of starting the right plan. We adjust things as we go so the relief lasts.
Is dry eye just part of getting older?
It's more common with age — and with contact lenses, some medications and screen-heavy work — but common doesn't mean you have to put up with it. It's very treatable.
Could my dry eye be Sjögren's syndrome?
It can be. Sjögren's is an autoimmune condition that reduces tear and saliva production, so persistent, more severe dry eye together with a dry mouth can be a sign. If we suspect it, we assess carefully and work with your GP or rheumatologist so it's properly looked after.

Other services

Ready to see clearly?

Book a consultation with Dr Leong, or call the clinic to talk it through. We're here to help you see your very best.

Book a Consultation04 470 7663