Amniotic membrane treatment in Greater Montreal for damaged corneas and severe dry eye

At Experience Care, our optometrists first assess the surface of your eye and cornea. They then discuss whether an amniotic membrane is appropriate for your situation.
Le principe

How the amniotic membrane supports corneal repair

Three actions in one: physical protection, natural healing factors, and anti-inflammatory properties.

01

The biological dressing

The membrane covers the damaged area of the cornea and protects it from friction from the eyelid with each blink. This protection allows the cornea to heal.

02

Healing factors

The membrane contains natural proteins that help the cornea repair itself. Your tears gradually release them as the membrane dissolves.

03

L'effet anti-inflammatoire

The membrane also has properties that soothe inflammation on the ocular surface and may reduce the risk of scarring on the cornea in the long term.

Are you a candidate for an amniotic membrane with a damaged cornea?

If your cornea isn’t healing with standard treatments, or if you are experiencing severe dry eye, your optometrist may discuss the option of an amniotic membrane with you.
Sjögren's syndrome
Post-LASIK discomfort

When is an amniotic membrane indicated?

There are several situations where the cornea needs extra support to heal. Your optometrist will determine which applies to you.

Severe dry eye with pain and blurred vision, even with lubricating drops.

Keratitis or corneal abrasion with an open wound that does not close.

Recurrent corneal erosion with pain upon waking and frequent tearing.

Sjögren’s syndrome with corneal lesions and severe dryness that do not respond to usual treatments.

Post-LASIK discomfort with dryness and corneal lesions that are not healing.

When an amniotic membrane is not an option

Certain situations make the placement unsuitable or require further discussion. Your optometrist will always assess these factors before proceeding.

Active infection of the cornea — bacterial, viral, or fungal.

Known allergy to any component of the membrane or to preservative antibiotics.

Glaucoma filtration bleb or drainage implant in the application area.

Severe blepharospasm or inability to keep the eye open during placement.

Unable to attend in-clinic follow-up within 7 days of the procedure.

How amniotic membrane placement is performed at Experience Care

Three clear steps for a quick, comfortable procedure with little to no downtime.

01

Examination and topical anesthesia

The optometrist examines your cornea, tear film, and the surface of the eye with a slit lamp. They check for any active infection, then apply a topical anesthetic drop.

02

Membrane placement on the cornea

The optometrist gently places the dehydrated membrane directly onto the cornea. Your natural tears rehydrate it in seconds. No pain.

03

Resumption of activities and 7-day check-up

You can leave immediately and resume your activities. The membrane dissolves naturally over a few days. A 7-day follow-up appointment is scheduled to check on the healing process.

THE CARE EXPERIENCE
Beyond treatments, we offer care rooted in listening and empathy. Each patient is unique, and our greatest satisfaction is restoring the comfort you thought you had lost.
An approach appreciated by our patients. Rated 5.0/5 on Google.

Who performs amniotic membrane placement at Experience Care?

Dre. Francesca Olinga
Optometrist

An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.

Dr Daniel Nguyen — Optométriste spécialisé en sécheresse oculaire à la Clinique CARE
Dr Daniel Nguyen
Optometrist

An optometrist and member of theOOQ, Dr. Daniel Nguyen splits his practice between eye exams in an optometry clinic and advanced management of dry eye conditions at the CARE Clinic. This dual practice provides him with a comprehensive view of his patients' visual health, from routine screenings to cutting-edge therapeutic protocols. dry eye Biography of Karine Charbonneau

Dr. Trang Nguyen
Optometrist

Optometrist with over 30 years of experience and speaker for eye care professionals. Dr. Nguyen has experience in improving visual quality affected by dry eye. She supports her patients in reconciling their aesthetic goals (makeup, cosmetics) and optimal eye comfort.

FAQS
How long does it take to apply the membrane?

The application itself takes about 10 minutes. The entire visit, including examination and follow-up, is typically about 30 minutes in the clinic.

Is it painful?

No. The optometrist applies a numbing drop before the procedure. The membrane is gently placed on the cornea using a slit lamp. The main sensation afterwards is a slight feeling of presence that usually fades within the first few days.

How will my vision be while wearing the membrane?

Your vision may be slightly blurry for the first few days while the membrane settles. It will gradually clear and return to normal once the membrane dissolves.

What activities can I do while wearing the membrane?

Most normal activities are permitted. Avoid: rubbing your eye, the pool or spa, and eye makeup. Driving is fine as long as your vision remains clear.

What happens to the membrane over time?

The membrane dissolves naturally over several days. Your tears gradually absorb it, so there is no need to remove it yourself.