Dry Eyes
Beyond artificial tears: Advanced, personalized treatment plans that work.
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry Eye Disease affects the moisture and lubrication on your eyes’ surface, impacting one out of seven adults over the age of 21 in the United States. Our eyes depend on tears for comfort and health, requiring both the right amount and quality of moisture to function properly. When your tears don’t provide adequate moisture or lubrication, it leads to Dry Eye Disease (DED) – a chronic condition that can significantly impact your daily life.
At Ideal Eye Surgery Centers’ Dry Eye Institute, we combine advanced diagnostic equipment with specialized expertise to provide comprehensive care. Our specialists deliver targeted treatments based on thorough testing. Learn more about your treatment options.
What Causes Dry Eye?
Our tear film is made up of three unique layers. Each layer of your tear film must be present and work properly for your eye to remain moisturized and lubricated. Dry eye occurs in one or multiple ways, including:
Inadequate amount of tears.
This can be due to a decrease in the production of tears or an increase in the rate of evaporation of the tears. In this condition, your eye lacks adequate moisture.
Poor quality tears.
Even when you have optimal tear production, a lack of lubrication from the tears you have can also lead to symptoms of dry eye. This is even more troublesome when you have roughness on the surface of your eyes from scars, allergy problems, or exposure to dust, dirt, or other irritants in your environment.
Who is at Risk for Dry Eye?
Many risk factors can cause dry eye disease. These include:
Advanced Age
Dry eye increases with age.
Gender
Women are more likely to suffer from symptoms of dry eye disease than men.
Systemic disease
Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and thyroid eye disease can all lead to dry eye.
Medications
Dry eye can be a side effect of some high blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antihistamines and decongestants, diuretics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, oral contraceptives, pain relievers, dermatological medications (Accutane), antipsychotic medications, and gastrointestinal medications.
Environmental conditions
Dry or dusty environments, smoke-filled areas, high altitudes, windy or hot conditions, along with ceiling fans and dehumidifiers, can all make your symptoms worse.
Contact lens wear
Contacts often need more lubrication and moisture to carry oxygen to your cornea.
Decreased blink rate
This can occur due to certain diseases, extended reading, extended computer use, or when watching TV.
Hormones
This can be a particular problem for women after menopause.
Eye surgeries
especially LASIK.
Inflammation and eye conditions
Inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis) and ocular surface can cause dry eye disease.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye?
Stinging or burning sensation
Eyes feel Scratchy or gritty
Red eyes
Watery eyes
Mucus in or around the eyes
Blurred vision that comes and goes throughout the day
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Eye fatigue
Light sensitivity
Frequent blinking
Am I a Candidate for Cataract Surgery?
If cataracts are affecting your ability to read, drive, or enjoy daily life—and your eye exam confirms a cataract—surgery may be recommended.
How is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
While your eye care professional can diagnose dry eye disease, diagnosing the specific cause requires specialized equipment and detailed analysis that many general eye doctors cannot provide. Most patients simply receive basic instructions to use artificial tears, without understanding why they need them, how frequently to use them, or which prescription drops would work best for their unique situation.
At our center, we take a comprehensive approach. Through a combination of thorough questionnaires, detailed eye exams, and advanced diagnostic testing, we identify the root causes of your condition. This allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and provides lasting relief here in Creve Coeur.
How is Dry Eye Treated?
Lubricating eye drops are the second most common medical treatment in the USA, second only to analgesics like acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen. Because there are so many factors causing dry eye disease, there is a wide range of treatment options. A treatment that may work well for one person may not be the best for you, depending on the specific cause of your dry eye problem.
Options include:
Artificial tear drops
These come in many different formulations and levels of treatment, so follow a doctor’s recommendations on what to use.
Lid scrubs
These remove scales and flakes from the eyelid that can cause irritation.
Warm compresses
These help remove wax deposits from meibomian glands and tear ducts.
Punctal plugs
These close the drain to prevent loss of tears.
Topical steroid drops
Reduce inflammation.
Restasis/Xiidra drops
These treat medical conditions with the glands that produce tears.
Fish oil/omega-3 fatty acid tablets
Add nutritional support for tear glands.
Avoiding causative environments
Including ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, and smoky or dusty areas.
Taking breaks and remembering to blink
during prolonged screen activity
Why Choose Ideal Eye Surgery?
Personalized care
Your eyes, activities, and goals guide your plan.
Expert team you can trust
Our surgeons are among the nations most experienced in cataract and vision correction surgery – having restored clear sight to more than 25,000+ patients.
Professional and Trust-Building
When desired, your optometrist remains an active partner in your care – our team coordinates every step for a smooth, connected experience.
Convenient
Patient-focused care.
Leading with innovation
Our surgeons use the most advanced technology available to ensure every patient receives the best possible vision correction.
Dry Eye Treatment: Prognosis & Outcome
Dry eye affects one in seven adults and occurs when the eyes lack adequate moisture and lubrication. Symptoms of dry eyes include stinging, burning, eye fatigue, and blurred vision. Ideal Eye Surgery is home to the Dry Eye Institute, where we offer tailored treatments based on detailed testing and diagnosis to address your needs.
Our specialists from the Dry Eye Institute will assess your condition and provide tailored treatment recommendations. Benefit from our early access to cutting-edge medications and treatments through our collaborations with manufacturers. Contact our ophthalmologists today.
This page is educational and not medical advice. Your surgeon will explain whether surgery is appropriate for you.
Cost, Insurance & Financing
Medicare and many insurance plans typically cover medically necessary cataract surgery. Some lens options and vision-enhancing upgrades may involve out-of-pocket costs.
Insurance & Medicare
We'll verify your benefits and provide an out-of-pocket estimate
Financing
We accept payments from CareCredit. Information regarding applications can be found below
Price Transparency
We'll provide a written estimate before you decide.
Testimonials and Reviews
FAQs
How long does it take to see improvement with treatment?
Every patient responds differently to treatment. Some patients experience relief within days, while others may need several weeks to notice significant improvement. Your doctor will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Can I wear contact lenses with dry eye?
While contact lens wear can contribute to dry eye symptoms, many patients can still wear contacts with proper management. Your doctor may recommend specific contact lens types or wearing schedules, along with specialized lubricating drops designed for contact lens wearers.
Is dry eye disease permanent?
Dry eye is typically a chronic condition, but it can be effectively managed with proper treatment. While there may not be a permanent cure, following your prescribed treatment plan can significantly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Will insurance cover my treatment?
Insurance coverage depends on your provider and the required treatment. Many insurance plans cover medical visits and some prescription medications. Our office staff can help verify your coverage and discuss payment options.
Can lifestyle changes help my dry eye symptoms?
Yes! Simple changes like taking regular breaks from screen time, staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and protecting your eyes from wind and smoke can significantly improve symptoms. Your doctor will recommend specific lifestyle modifications based on your situation.
Request a Consultaiton
We’ll follow up within one hour during business hours to schedule your visit—no phone tag. We also coordinate with your optometrist regarding your surgery and outcome so you’re never the go‑between.
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