What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?

An optometrist (OD) provides primary vision care including eye exams, diagnosis of common eye conditions, contact lens fitting, and non-surgical treatment. An ophthalmologist (MD/DO) is a medical doctor who performs eye surgery and handles complex medical conditions. In New York, they work together in a co-management model for comprehensive patient care.

What does a comprehensive eye exam include?

A comprehensive eye exam includes assessment of visual clarity, eye muscle coordination, peripheral vision, and examination of internal eye structures using advanced diagnostic tools. It can detect early signs of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, plus provides personalized vision correction recommendations.

What are specialty contact lenses?

Specialty contact lenses are custom-designed lenses for complex vision problems that standard lenses cannot correct. These include scleral lenses, hybrid lenses, and rigid gas permeable lenses for conditions like keratoconus, irregular astigmatism, and severe dry eye.

What is dry eye treatment?

Dry eye treatment includes personalized routines with medications, specialized treatments such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), Meibomian Gland Expressions, and Punctal Plug insertions to restore optimal tear film quality and relieve discomfort.

What is myopia management for children?

Myopia management is a personalized approach to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. It may include specialized contact lenses, prescription eyeglasses, or orthokeratology (overnight lenses). Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of severe myopia and related complications later in life.

Does Dr. Latek accept insurance?

Yes, Dr. Latek accepts both medical and vision insurance for eye care services including routine eye exams and corrective lenses. Contact the office at (212) 228-0950 for specific insurance questions.

Accutane and Dry Eyes: Why It Happens and How to Find Relief

Struggling with dry eyes while taking Accutane? Learn why isotretinoin causes dryness, common symptoms, and evidence-based treatments to keep your eyes comfortable.

Accutane (Isotretinoin) and Your Eyes

Isotretinoin—commonly known as Accutane—is one of the most effective treatments for severe acne. However, while it can dramatically improve skin, it frequently causes ocular side effects, with dry eye disease being the most common.

If you are experiencing burning, irritation, or blurry vision while on Accutane, you are not alone—this is a well-documented and expected side effect.

Why Does Accutane Cause Dry Eyes?

Accutane works by shrinking sebaceous glands to reduce oil production in the skin. Unfortunately, it also affects the meibomian glands in your eyelids, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of your tear film.

Recent studies (2021–2026) show that isotretinoin can:

Decrease meibomian gland secretion
Alter tear film stability
Increase tear evaporation
Induce inflammation of the ocular surface

The result is evaporative dry eye, often with a component of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Common Symptoms Patients Notice

Patients on Accutane often report:

Dryness or grittiness
Burning or stinging
Redness
Fluctuating or blurry vision
Contact lens intolerance
Increased sensitivity to light

Symptoms can begin within weeks of starting treatment and may worsen over time.

Is the Damage Permanent?

In most cases, dry eye symptoms improve after stopping Accutane. However, newer research suggests:

Some patients develop long-term or chronic dry eye
Meibomian gland changes may be partially irreversible in certain cases
Risk increases with higher doses and longer treatment duration

This is why early intervention matters.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

You may be more likely to develop significant dry eye if you:

Already have dry eye disease
Wear contact lenses
Spend long hours on screens
Have underlying conditions like Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Live in dry or high-airflow environments (e.g., offices with AC/heat)

How to Manage Dry Eyes on Accutane

The goal is to stabilize the tear film and protect the ocular surface while you complete your course of treatment.

1. Use High-Quality Artificial Tears

Preservative-free tears are preferred (see Dry Eye & Allergy treatment guide for recommendations)
Use at least 2–4x daily, even if symptoms are mild

2. Support the Meibomian Glands

Warm compresses (5–10 minutes daily)
Lid hygiene (gentle cleansers or wipes)

3. Consider Omega-3 Supplementation

Evidence suggests omega-3 fatty acids may help improve tear stability and reduce inflammation.

4. Limit Contact Lens Wear

Many patients develop intolerance during treatment. Temporary reduction or switching to glasses can help significantly.

5. Prescription Treatments (When Needed)

For moderate to severe symptoms, your eye doctor may recommend:

Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion
Lifitegrast
Short-term topical steroids (carefully monitored)

These treatments target inflammation, not just lubrication.

6. In-Office Treatments

If symptoms persist, procedures like:

Meibomian gland expression
Thermal pulsation (e.g., LipiFlow)
Intense pulsed light (IPL)

may be considered to restore gland function.

When Should You See an Eye Doctor?

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

Persistent dryness despite using artificial tears
Blurry vision that fluctuates
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Redness or irritation that worsens

Early management can prevent long-term complications.

Key Takeaway

Accutane is highly effective—but it comes with real, measurable effects on the ocular surface. The good news is that with proactive care, most patients can stay comfortable throughout treatment.

If you are starting Accutane or already noticing symptoms, a baseline and follow-up eye exam can make a significant difference in protecting your long-term eye health.

Aragona, P., et al. “Effects of Isotretinoin on Meibomian Glands and Tear Film.” International Ophthalmology, 2022.
Wang, M. T. M., et al. “Systemic Medications and Dry Eye Disease.” Ocular Surface, 2021.
Egger, S. F., et al. “Ocular Side Effects of Isotretinoin Therapy.” Cornea, 2023.
Zhang, X., et al. “Impact of Oral Isotretinoin on Tear Film and Ocular Surface.” BMC Ophthalmology, 2024.
Liu, R., et al. “Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Systemic Retinoids.” American Journal of Ophthalmology, 2022.