Lid Massage

Some doctors recommend lid massage, after applying warm compresses, to stimulate meibum secretion. Lid massage milks the meibomian glands, and can be done with the fingers or a variety of tools available online.

Although lid massage has been a common practice for years, it is not without risk, particularly if the meibomian glands are inflamed or blocked. The risk is essentially the same as with meibomian gland expression.

Applying pressure to the glands regularly can disrupt the normal production, and flow, of meibum. Also, if there is blockage — fibrotic tissue encircling the gland — massage may force unwanted material deeper into the gland.