Dry eye options, side by side
What can help, and what the FDA says about each
Results vary from person to person with every treatment. Dr. Cullen explains the evidence and the risks of each before you decide.
| Option | FDA status in the US | How it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops | FDA status in the USFDA-approvedFDA-approved for dry eye. | How it worksDrops that calm inflammation on the surface of the eye. They are prescribed after an evaluation. | Good to knowThey take regular use over some time. Dr. Cullen explains how to use them and when we check how they are working. |
| Thermal pulsation of the eyelids | FDA status in the USFDA-clearedFDA-cleared device for blocked oil glands. | How it worksA device warms the inside of the lids and presses on them to clear the oil glands. It is done in the office. | Good to knowOften paid by the patient rather than a plan. A follow-up visit is usually suggested. |
| Intense pulsed light | FDA status in the USFDA-clearedFDA-cleared for dry eye from blocked oil glands. | How it worksPulses of light applied around the eyes warm the oil glands, in a series of visits. | Good to knowOften paid by the patient rather than a plan. Not for everyone, and Dr. Cullen explains who it suits. |
| Punctal plugs | FDA status in the USFDA-clearedFDA-cleared device. | How it worksTiny plugs placed in the tear drains to keep tears on the eye longer. | Good to knowPlaced in the office. Dr. Cullen explains the risks, and the plugs can be removed. |
| Warm compresses and lid cleaning | FDA status in the USHome care. Dr. Cullen explains the evidence. | How it worksWarmth helps loosen oil in the glands, and cleaning the lid edge removes buildup. | Good to knowNeeds a few minutes a day. We show you how at the visit. |
| Artificial tears | FDA status in the USSold over the counter. Dr. Cullen explains the evidence. | How it worksDrops that add moisture to the surface. Some are made for use with contact lenses. | Good to knowWe suggest a type to suit your eyes, rather than the one on the nearest shelf. |
How we choose
A plan starts with you, not a menu
What you tell us
How your eyes feel, when they feel worse, what you have already tried and what you can fit into your days.
What the tests show
A tear film that dries fast, glands that are blocked and an inflamed surface each point to different options.
What you want to try
Some people want to begin with home care, and others want everything on the table. We fit the plan to you, and we change it if something isn't helping.
What insurance usually covers
Who pays for what
This is the general pattern. Your plan decides, and we check your benefits before you come.
The evaluation
Usually billed to your medical insurance, because it is care for an eye health problem.
Prescription drops
Covered by your plan's drug benefit, if the plan covers that drop. Your pharmacy can tell you.
In-office treatments
Coverage varies a great deal by plan, and many of these are paid by the patient. We give you a written estimate before anything is done.
How fees work
- 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.
About treatments
Will my dry eye ever go away?
Dry eye is usually a condition we manage over time. The right plan can ease symptoms, results vary, and we say so before you start anything.
Do I need every option?
No. Most people start with home care, and Dr. Cullen adds only what your evaluation supports.
What if something doesn't help?
Tell us. We check how each treatment is working at a follow-up visit, and we change the plan.
Ask which options fit your eyes
A dry eye evaluation tells us which of these are worth your time.