Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye syndrome can lead to redness, itchiness, irritation, and soreness. This can severely affect your well-being and vision quality.
Choate Eye Associates uses the latest tools and techniques to diagnose, treat, and manage severe cases of chronic dry eye.
Learn how board-certified doctor Walter Choate helps dry eye patients throughout Nashville, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville, TN.
Don't Ignore the Symptoms REQUEST A CONSULTATION AND PROTECT YOUR SIGHT
Dry eyes can be just a minor annoyance, but they can also be the symptom of more serious eye issues. If you experience dry eyes or sudden changes to your vision, it is best to get it checked out as soon as possible. Call our eye clinic or request an appointment online today:
(615) 851-7575
Understanding Dry Eye and Why It Happens
Dry eye has different causes, and each will determine which type of treatment you need. Dr. Choate and his team will determine what kind of dry eye you're suffering from and then develop a treatment plan just for you.
Dry Eye Is More Common Than You Think
Source: National Eye Institute
Given the prevalence of dry eye symptoms among Americans of all ages, it's a good idea to visit Dr. Choate for an exam. Using advanced technology, he can determine the cause or causes of your dry eye.
Schedule a Consultation We Offer Advanced Dry Eye Treatment and Management
Dr. Walter Choate is board-certified in the treatment and management of eye diseases such as dry eye. He has provided the communities of Nashville, TN, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville with compassionate eye care and vision enhancement since 1979. This dedication has made our practice one of the most trusted and respected centers in the state of Tennessee.
Dr. Choate's experience has led him to be an FDA investigator for the latest contact lenses, pharmaceuticals, and other ophthalmic equipment. His patients get access to these exciting new treatments before anyone else in the South.
If you live in the Nashville area and would like more information about treating dry eye and other eye conditions, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also call our team at:
"Fast service and affordable" Nashville's Most Trusted Eye Care Provider
Ricardo Dorris
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
From the sweet lady’s at the front desk, staff and Dr. Choate himself, amazing! Fast service and affordable, great environment!
View on GoogleDaniel O'Connor
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Great smooth experience. Feel a lot better knowing there were available steps to take to improve my condition.
View on GoogleDry Eye and Advanced Age
Source: The American Journal of Ophthalmology
Advanced age is just one of many risk factors associated with dry eye syndrome. That's why it's important for older patients to undergo regular exams. Dr. Choate can identify signs of dry eye disease and other ocular conditions.
Are You at Risk for Dry Eye Syndrome?
Certain conditions make dry eye more likely. Be mindful of these dry eye risk factors, and reach out to our Nashville area center for an exam if you suffer from any symptoms.
Advanced Age
As people grow older, changes in hormones and other wellness factors can lead to changes in tear composition, reduced tear production, and other issues that could make dry eye more likely.Certain Medical Conditions
Dry eye is linked to a number of health conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma, and nutritional deficiencies.Use of Certain Medications
People who take certain medications run a higher risk of developing dry eye. These drugs include antihistamines, antidepressants, hormones, blood pressure medications, and birth control.Blepharitis
Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) can cause the build-up of debris in your tear film, preventing you from keeping your eyelids moist and causing dry eye symptoms.
Our Advanced Testing and Diagnosis Tools
At our practice serving Nashville, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville, TN, we use some of the latest diagnostic tools to properly screen for dry eye disease. Our team begins the diagnostic process by discussing patients' symptoms and medical history. For example, a condition like rheumatoid arthritis may contribute to your dry eyes. Next, we'll use the following vision technology to determine whether poor tear quality, insufficient tears, or meibomian gland dysfunction are contributing to your symptoms:
A slit lamp allows Dr. Choate to closely examine the interior and surface of the eye, identifying dry eye disease and other conditions. A slit lamp scan is used in general eye exams to spot any abnormalities with your eye health that are invisible to the naked eye. With a slit lamp, we can capture a photo of your anterior segment. These anterior segment photos can help us document your dry eye disease progression and recession over the course of your treatment.
The LipiScan® system uses infrared technology to produce high-resolution images of the meibomian glands along the eyelids. Lipiscan uses oculus meibography to show the arrangement of the meibomian glands. This imaging technology can give us an insight into any dysfunction occurring with the meibomian glands. The scan only takes about ten seconds to capture high-resolution images of the patient's lower eyelids for a more accurate diagnosis.
We use TearLab® Osmolarity System to measure the concentration of tears produced. This system can give us a quantitative answer for whether your tear production is too low or too high. It can also help us narrow down if your dry eye symptoms are related to dry eye disease or another condition.
Our system uses non-invasive thermal imaging technology to test the breakup time of tears. The system takes high-resolution images of your ocular surface immediately after blinking and five seconds after blinking to determine your tear breakup time and give our doctors more information to guide your treatment plan.
"I have complete confidence in the diagnosis" What Nashville Patients Are Saying
Carol M
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Extremely thorough, and I have complete confidence in the diagnosis as well as the solution.
View on GoogleSteven Winters
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
A very professional and friendly experience as always!
View on GoogleContact Our Eye Doctor for a Diagnosis
With more than four decades of experience, Dr. Choate is proud to provide some of the finest eye care and optometric services in Goodlettsville, Hendersonville, and nearby communities. Quality care has remained his focus throughout his career. Dr. Choate is a proud member of numerous eye care organizations, including:
- American Academy of Optometry
- American Optometric Association
- National Board of Examiners in Optometry
For more information about the latest treatment options for dry eye in the Nashville area, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also schedule a consultation by phone at:
(615) 851-7575
Dr. Choate can help you properly diagnose your condition and get the treatment you deserve.
"Their office staff is extremely friendly and efficient. They are professional and know their jobs. They always have a smile for you. I have never had a bad experience there, and Dr. Choate knows just exactly what I need every visit." - Debbie Thomas, 2023
Common Treatment Options
There are many ways to treat dry eye syndrome and manage its symptoms. Dr. Choate and the team at our center serving Nashville and surrounding cities will determine the ideal treatment or combination of treatments to help you experience better vision and health. Some of our most common treatments include:
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears are a common way to manage dry eye syndrome. Patients use these lubricating eye drops to soothe dryness and irritation. In some cases, artificial tears combined with lifestyle modifications are sufficient to treat dry eye syndrome.
Prescription Eye Drops
Eye drops such as RESTASIS®, Xiidra®, Lotemax, or doxycycline may be prescribed in order to treat dry eye syndrome. These medicated eye drops, which are different than over-the-counter artificial tears, provide lubrication and symptom relief.
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs are small devices placed into the tear ducts. By blocking the ducts, moisture coating the surface of the eyes will not drain away. Punctal plugs effectively prevent dry eye by keeping existing moisture in place longer.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow® is a nonsurgical dry eye treatment that treats meibomian gland blockages and dysfunction. The gentle combination of heat and pressure unblocks the glands in less than 15 minutes, reducing the severity of dry eye episodes.
ThermiEyes
ThermiEyes® is similar to LipiFlow in that it also treats meibomian gland dysfunction in about 15 minutes. ThermiEyes warms, soothes, and unblocks the meibomian glands by delivering safe radiofrequency energy along the eyelids.
Intense Pulsed Light
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a non-invasive treatment that used light to express buildup in the meibomian glands. With this treatment, multiple sessions are needed to see substantial and lasting results. About one to four initial treatments are recommended for at least three months of uninterrupted improvement of dry eye disease symptoms. When symptoms begin to return, the treatment can be repeated.
Low-Level Light Therapy
Low-level light therapy (LLLT) is another treatment we offer at our office. LLLT uses various types of LED wavelengths to reduce inflammation in the area and eradicate harmful bacteria that could be contributing to your condition. Originally used in dermatology, LLLT is an ideal treatment to manage pain associated with dry eyes and promote tissue regeneration.
Tailoring Dry Eye Treatment to the Patient
Choose a Dry Eye Center That Offers Comprehensive Treatments
Treating dry eye syndrome begins with determining the cause. Following your initial consultation, Dr. Choate will do a complete dry eye work-up to analyze tear quantity, tear quality, and gland function. This will enable him to determine the most effective course of treatment for your case. Our other treatments include:
- Hot compresses such as the BRUDER® Moist Heat Eye Compress
- Antibiotic eyelid scrubs such as OCuSOFT®
- Antioxidants and fish oil high in EPA/DHA/GLA and astaxanthin
- An anti-inflammatory diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Multiple types of artificial tears and steroids including SYSTANE® ULTRA, SYSTANE BALANCE, SYSTANE Preservative-Free, SYSTANE Gel Drops, SYSTANE Nighttime Ointment, REFRESH® OPTIVE, REFRESH OPTIVE Advanced Preservative-Free, REFRESH Liquigel, and REFRESH Lacri-lube Ointment
- Blinking exercises
Through proper diagnosis and custom treatment plans, Dr. Choate has helped many patients achieve relief from their symptoms—for good.
Contact Our Vision Center Relieve Your Dry Eye Symptoms—For Good
Whether he is treating dry eye or helping patients select the right glasses or contact lenses for their needs, Dr. Choate remains a leader in quality eye care for people in the Nashville, TN, area.
Dr. Choate and his dedicated staff are always thorough and warm, making everyone feel welcome and comfortable with each visit. We put you first and focus on your current vision needs as well as your lasting wellness.
Do you live in Goodlettsville, Hendersonville, or nearby? For more information about lasting relief from dry eye syndrome, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also reach our practice by phone at:
(615) 851-7575
"Excellent in every way." Reviews for Nashville's Leading Eye Care Physician
Joyce Bridges
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Dr. Choate and his associates are professional, knowledgeable, and go out of their way to make patients feel comfortable; keeping you informed at every step. Dr. Choate stays on the cutting edge of eye care and provides excellent resources and information so the patient can make informed decisions. I wouldn't trust my eyes to anyone else. Excellent in every way.
View on GoogleJD Crockett
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Profound visit! I went to see Dr Choate hoping to get help with Dry Eye and hoping he might be able to help or tell me where to go to get help with what I had been told were sinus headaches. When I finished my appointment, my first visit to Dr Choate, I had been diagnosed and had ordered special eye ware designed to help with a number of problems I experience daily, but had no idea were related, and had a new appointment to address my dry eye issue.
View on GoogleDry Eye Treatment Can Improve Your Quality of Life
There are many benefits to undergoing professional dry eye treatment. Our patients typically report the following improvements thanks to their custom treatment plan.
Greater Comfort
Proper treatment means you no longer have to deal with irritation, burning, or the feeling of something caught in your eyes. You can go about your day normally and comfortably.Reduced Redness
Now that your eyes are soothed and properly lubricated, they won't appear raw, bloodshot, or fatigued. This can work wonders for your appearance and overall self-image.Better Vision Quality
Dry eye treatment prevents blurry vision and poor night vision. You'll see clearly again and can enjoy reading, hikes, and other physical activities without any hassles.Restored Ability to Wear Contact Lenses
Chronic dry eye keeps many people from wearing their contact lenses. After dry eye treatment, you can wear contact lenses normally without itchiness or excessive tearing.Cost and Payment Options for Dry Eye Treatment
We help people throughout the Nashville area experience healthy eyes and better vision every day. This includes going over payment options for the treatments they need.
Since there are many ways to manage dry eye, the cost of treatment will vary. During your consultation, we'll provide a full cost breakdown of your procedure and discuss potential alternatives that may be more affordable.
Medical insurance may cover some of your dry eye treatment, reducing the final out-of-pocket cost. Keep in mind that coverage and policies vary. We'll work with you and your insurance provider so you can receive quality care.
While some treatments are covered by insurance, other treatments, such as LipiFlow and ThermiEyes, are not. If you are unable to pay for these treatments upfront, we are glad to help you apply for CareCredit®, a financing option that can allow you to pay for treatment in low-interest and interest-free installments.
Because many of the treatments for this condition are simple and non-invasive, treating dry eye is generally more cost-effective than addressing other ocular diseases that can occur if you leave dry eye untreated. By seeking out treatment early on, you can prevent the need for more costly treatments in the future.
Receive an Estimate Request a Consultation
The average cost range for dry eye treatment at our Goodlettsville, TN, office ranges between $200 and $1,500. The price of treatment will vary from patient to patient depending on the treatment plan.
The best way to find out how much your unique treatment plan will cost is to visit our office. Call us or request a consultation online to learn more:
(615) 851-7575
"I trust him completely." More Shining Reviews From Our Goodlettsville Patients
Ali Rodgers
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Dr. Choate and his staff are so kind and welcoming! Dr. Choate is incredibly thorough and knowledgable; he really goes above and beyond anything I've ever experienced from an optometrist. The ladies in the eye-ware boutique are so friendly and fun! It's like picking out glasses with your friend! I literally recommend this office to all of my friends/family, so I'm happy to recommend them on the internet!
View on GoogleLaura Erlanson
Goodlettsville, TN
2023
Dr. Choate is very knowledgeable and personable. He takes time to give you good information and answer all your questions. I've had some challenging issues with my eyes, and he always knows the latest research and treatment options. I trust him completely. And his staff is the best!! So kind and easy to work with.
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