Bringing World-Leading Dry Eye Care Back to the Gold Coast

At Eyecare Plus Mermaid Beach, we believe that providing exceptional patient care means never stopping learning.

Recently, our optometrists, Dr Shaina Zheng and Dr Jackson Yip travelled to New York to attend the inaugural Dry Eye Society of the Americas (DESA) meeting, where leading optometrists, ophthalmologists, researchers, and industry experts from around the world came together to share the latest research, clinical insights, and innovations in dry eye disease.

The meeting focused on advancing the understanding and management of dry eye disease through evidence-based, patient-centred care, with presentations covering emerging research, advanced treatment approaches, nutrition, inflammation, meibomian gland dysfunction, and the future of ocular surface disease management.

Contributing to the Global Dry Eye Community

Dr Shaina Zheng was honoured to be invited by Dr Rolando Toyos, founder of the Dry Eye Society of the Americas and a pioneer in the use of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for dry eye disease, to chair one of the scientific sessions during the meeting.

It was a privilege to contribute to discussions alongside internationally recognised experts while continuing to learn from leaders who are helping shape the future of dry eye care.

Why This Matters for Our Patients

Dry eye disease is one of the most common conditions we see in practice, yet it can significantly impact quality of life. Patients often experience symptoms such as:

• Dry, gritty or burning eyes

• Watery eyes

• Fluctuating vision

• Contact lens discomfort

• Eye fatigue when reading or using digital devices

As our understanding of dry eye continues to evolve, so too do the ways we diagnose and manage the condition.

Attending international meetings allows us to stay at the forefront of the latest evidence and bring those insights back to our patients here on the Gold Coast.

A Commitment to Continuous Learning

Education is a core part of who we are.

Whether it's participating in international conferences, collaborating with colleagues around the world, or continually refining our clinical skills, our goal is always the same—to provide our patients with thoughtful, evidence-based, personalised care.

We are proud to contribute to the global dry eye community while continuing to care for our local community.

Thank you to all of our patients for trusting us with your eye health.