Dry Eye Treatment in Nashville, TN
Board-Certified Care for Lasting Relief
- Specialized treatment for complex dry eye cases
- Advanced diagnostics to identify the true cause
- Custom plans using leading in-office therapies
Trusted by Dry Eye Patients in Nashville Why Choose Choate Eye Associates for Your Treatment?
Dr. Walter Choate has more than 40 years of experience and a well-earned reputation as one of the most trusted providers for Nashville patients with persistent or misdiagnosed dry eye. Many people come to our office after trying other treatments without success, seeking a more thorough and informed approach.
Dry eye is a condition that presents differently in each patient. Dr. Choate will carefully build a custom plan specifically for your needs instead of cycling through treatments to simply see what works. During your consultation, he’ll review your medical history, symptoms, medications, and lifestyle to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your discomfort.
Struggling to find relief from dry eye? At Choate Eye Associates, we likely have an option you haven’t tried yet. Dr. Choate offers treatments from punctal plugs and prescription therapies to advanced in-office methods like LipiFlow, ThermiEyes, IPL, and LLLT. We offer a complete range of solutions for long-term relief.
Request a Consultation With Dr. Choate
Dry Eye Expertise Backed by Decades of Experience
Dr. Walter Choate is one of the most experienced dry eye providers in the Nashville area. He’s known for helping patients find relief when other treatments have failed. As a board-certified optometrist and FDA investigator, he offers exceptional clinical expertise and early access to the latest technologies in eye care.
- 40+ years serving Nashville and Goodlettsville, TN
- Board-certified in the treatment and management of eye diseases
- Recognized specialist in chronic and complex dry eye cases
- FDA investigator for contact lenses, pharmaceuticals, and ophthalmic technology
- Adjunct faculty member at multiple schools of optometry
- Offering some of the most advanced solutions available for dry eye syndrome
If you’re struggling with dry, irritated, or watery eyes, our optometrist in Nashville, TN, can help you move beyond temporary fixes to lasting comfort. Request a consultation to get a clear plan for your relief.
Request a consultation with Dr. Choate today
Don't ignore these signs and symptoms
Whether you wear contacts or not
You may notice a number of symptoms if you have dry eye syndrome.
Stinging and irritation
Rawness, itchiness, and a burning sensation are all common with dry eye.
Red eyes
Red or bloodshot eyes are one of the most frequently reported symptoms.
Blurry vision
This condition can often lead to blurry vision and poor night vision.
Ocular mucus
Stringy mucus may build up at the corners of the eyelids or along the eye surface.
Light sensitivity
Dry eye will often lead to light sensitivity, which can be acute outdoors.
Excessive tearing
Sounds like a contradiction, but dry eye can cause uncontrollable tearing.
Gritty sensation
Some patients feel like something is caught in the corner or surface of the eye.
Difficulty wearing contacts
Dryness and irritation can make it impossible to wear contact lenses comfortably.
Get Lasting Relief from Dry Eye Syndrome The Nashville Area's Most Trusted Eye Care Provider
Marilyn Jenkins
Goodlettsville, TN
Finally! After more than 20+ years of yearly eye exams only Dr Choate discovered my chronic dry eye. I was told it was pink eye. Then I was told it was allergies. Nothing worked even a few prescriptions. Now I am on the road to relief and more comfortable vision. Words fail to express my gratitude to Dr Choate and his staff.
View on GoogleDiane Andolina
Goodlettsville, TN
I was referred to Dr Choate by another ophthalmologist for dry eyes. I am extremely pleased with the results of his care. He is very intelligent and takes his time to ensure he is prescribing the best treatment. He runs on time and his staff is great! My eyes are so much better now!
View on GoogleThe Benefits of Treating Dry Eye Disease Dry 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.Contact Us to Enhance
Your Eye Health
Experience Advanced Dry Eye
Management in the Nashville Area
Dr. 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 our practice online.
Our team customizes each dry eye treatment to the patient's unique needs to ensure the best results.
Get Comfort for Red
and Irritated Eyes
How We Solved One Patient's Dry Eye Problem
"I have been a patient of Dr. Choate's for many years and have been incredibly pleased by the level of care I receive during each visit. Dr. Choate is dedicated to providing the best and most advanced eye care as evidenced by the innovative technology he uses in addition to the most beautiful selection of eyewear in Nashville. I have suffered from dry eye problems during the past year and Dr. Choate was able to solve these issues, bringing me so much relief and daily comfort. The staff at Choate Eye Associates is professional and warm (even making eye exams for my two young children a fun experience). I am grateful for such wonderful care and highly recommend Choate Eye Associates."
Caroline, 5-Star Review
Advanced Testing and Diagnosis of Dry Eye A Nashville Leader in Vision Technology and Equipment
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:
Slit Lamp Exam
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.
LipiScan
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.
TearLab
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.
Tear Breakup Test
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.
Cost and Payment Options for Dry Eye Treatment Receive an Estimate During 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.
Cost of Treatment
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.
Financing Is Available
While some treatments are covered by insurance, other treatments, such as LipiFlow, 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.
Insurance Coverage
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.
Save Money in the Long Run
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.
The best way to find out how much your unique treatment plan will cost is to contact our office serving Nashville. Call us or request a consultation online to learn more:
More Reviews from the People of Nashville Dry Eye Treatment and Other Patient-Centered Eye Care Services
Reginald Cartmell
Goodlettsville, TN
Choate Eye Associates is truly a gem in the world of eye care, and I say this from over 25 years of personal experience. My family has trusted them for over 30 years, a testament to the exceptional service they provide. Dr. Choate and his team go beyond being healthcare providers; they are like family.
View on Googlemary wells
Goodlettsville, TN
Dr. Choate is very thorough and knowledgeable. He stays up to date on new technologies and treatments. The staff are attentive and helpful. Tammy and Barbara in optical are fantastic at getting the glasses just right.
View on GoogleAre 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
Changes in hormones and other wellness factors that come with age can lead to changes in tear composition and production. According to the American Journal of Ophthalmology, the prevalence of dry eye in adults 75 and older is higher than 18%.
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.
Contact Our Office for a Dry Eye Diagnosis Nashville, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville Can Count on Us
With more than four decades of experience, Dr. Choate is proud to provide some of the finest eye care and optometric services from our Goodlettsville office, serving 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:
Dry Eye Treatment That's Worth the Drive Why People with Dry Eye Come to the Nashville Suburbs
"Dr. Choate, his assistant Tammie, and all his staff have been very informative, professional, and congenial during my treatments for dry eye condition. Even though it's quite a distance for me to travel to his practice, it's a pleasure to visit him for my eye needs."
George, 5-Star Review
Tailoring Dry Eye Treatment to the Patient Customized Solutions for Eye Diseases and Vision Problems
Personalized care is essential for relieving dry eye syndrome for patients in Hendersonville and nearby. Our Nashville suburbs eye care team applies this approach to all kinds of conditions that affect your vision quality and health. The vision care experts at Choate Eye Associates always put your needs first so you can see clearly and rest easy.
Common Treatment Options for Dry Eye How Our Office in the Nashville Suburbs Can Help You
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:
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.
Intense Pulsed Light
Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a non-invasive treatment that uses 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.
Combining IPL and LLLT Therapies
An Even More Effective Solution
With the epi-c plus® system by Essilor, we're excited to offer a new standard of care. During this simple, 15-minute treatment, we pair IPL with LLLT for even greater effects. Patients can expect to experience substantial results in as little as one to two appointments.
Additional Approaches to Managing Dry Eye Disease
Our Nashville Area Dry Eye Center Provides Comprehensive Care
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.
Relieve Your Dry Eye Symptoms for Good Contact Choate Eye Associates for Your Sore and Scratchy Eyes
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 Hendersonville or nearby? For more information about lasting relief from dry eye syndrome, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also reach our Goodlettsville office by phone at:
Advanced Vision Services Including Dry Eye Treatment Nashville's Leading Eye Care Physician is Here for You
P Johnson
Goodlettsville, TN
Superior eyecare. Seriously. Have years of experience with different optometrists (they were all good), so recognize “superior” qualifications. Husband has VERY bad vision, and associated issues. He was impressed with my account of my experience with Choate, so he went to see them … wow…I am so grateful we stumbled onto Choate….my husband is actually getting help with his vision issues.
View on GoogleBrandon Lau
Goodlettsville, TN
The most thorough eye exam I have ever had. Dr. Walter Choate was very courteous and professional while tending to my vision needs. Top of the line equipment were used on each testing proceedure and allowed him to make the best recommendations for my needs. Barbara took great care of me during the fitting and lens ordering. Her patience with me earned her my respect. Becky took care of payment with a smile and over I came away with a positive experience that needed to be shared. This is my new optometrist office for as long as I'm in Tennessee!
View on GoogleHave a Dry Eye Question We Didn't Answer? Contact Our Office in the Nashville Suburbs for More Dry Eye Info
Dry eye disease is complicated given its many causes and links to other health conditions. While we have discussed many facets of the condition already, it's best to meet with an experienced eye doctor to discuss your symptoms and medical history. The entire team at Choate Eye Associates is ready to get you the information you need.
To set up an appointment, contact our dry eye center in Goodlettsville, TN.
An Experienced
Eye Doctor You Can Trust
A Long-Time Dry Eye and
Vision Patient Shares His Story
"I've been a patient with Dr. Choate since 1992. Very thorough eye examinations and a great staff. He has diagnosed glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye disease, and provided competent care and referrals. His staff is friendly and helpful. I highly recommend Choate Eye Associates for quality vision care."
Richard, 5-Star Review
