A dry eye treatment device and method of use are disclosed for applying heat to the exterior surface of an eyelid to treat dry eye symptoms which can be caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). More specifically, a user operable main unit and hand piece are provided that allow the user to heat his/her or another patient's eyelids to a desired temperature, which can effectively and efficiently raise the temperature at the meibomian glands sufficient to melt, loosen, or soften occlusions or obstructions in the meibomian glands, thereby restoring natural secretory function to the meibomian glands.
