Options and where each stands
Dry eye options and the FDA
Results vary from person to person. For anything not listed with a status, your optometrist explains the evidence before you decide.
| Option | FDA status | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial tears | FDA statusSold without a prescription | What it involvesDrops you use at home. Your optometrist helps you choose one and how often to use it. |
| Warm compresses and lid care | FDA statusHome care. Your optometrist explains the evidence | What it involvesA few minutes a day with a warm compress and gentle lid cleaning. |
| Anti-inflammatory prescription drops | FDA statusFDA-approvedPrescription drops | What it involvesDrops used once or twice a day as prescribed, with follow-up visits. |
| Eyelid thermal pulsation | FDA statusFDA-clearedA device used in the office | What it involvesA visit in the office, where a device warms and presses the eyelids. |
| Intense pulsed light | FDA statusFDA-clearedA device used in the office, for dry eye from gland blockage in the eyelids | What it involvesA series of short visits where light is applied around the eyes. Eye protection is worn. |
| Punctal plugs | FDA statusFDA-clearedSmall inserts placed in the office | What it involvesTiny plugs placed in the tear drains to keep tears on the eye longer. |
- Sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a curtain over your vision, a chemical splash or an eye injury needs care now. Call our office right away or go to an emergency room. If you can't reach us, call 911.
How we choose
Starting simple, adding only what fits
- 01
Step 1: Evaluation first
We find out what is behind your symptoms before suggesting anything.
- 02
Step 2: The simplest steps
Home care and the right drops are where most plans begin.
- 03
Step 3: In-office options
Added when your optometrist finds they fit, and you agree to the written estimate.
- 04
Step 4: Follow-up
We check how your eyes are doing and change the plan with you.
Services
Before you decide
How it is billed
The visit is billed to medical insurance or to you. Some treatments are not covered, and plans differ, so we check first and give you a written estimate.
How fees workWhat to bring
The names of your medicines and drops
Your insurance cards
Questions about treatments
Will a treatment take my dry eye away?
Care aims to ease your symptoms, and results vary. Your optometrist tells you what to expect for your eyes and checks in with you.
Do I need the in-office options?
Not always. Many plans start at home. Your optometrist suggests an in-office option only when it fits.
Who decides what is covered?
Your plan does. We check your benefits before the visit and tell you what we find.
Want to talk through your options?
Book a dry eye evaluation and your optometrist goes through them with you.