Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Dry Eye Treatment Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Over-the-Counter Artificial Tears (monthly) | $10 – $30 | $10 – $30 |
| Prescription Eye Drops (Restasis/Xiidra, monthly) | $300 – $600 | $20 – $100 |
| Punctal Plugs (per session) | $300 – $800 | $50 – $200 |
| IPL Therapy (series of 4) | $800 – $2,000 | $800 – $2,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: 68761, 0507T
What Affects the Cost
- Type of provider (optometrist vs. ophthalmologist)
- Retail chain vs. private practice
- Vision insurance vs. health insurance coverage
- Geographic location
- Technology and equipment used
- Whether the condition is routine or medical
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Prescription dry eye treatments like Restasis and Xiidra may be covered by health insurance with prior authorization. Over-the-counter treatments are not covered.
Vision insurance (VSP, EyeMed) covers routine eye exams ($0-$30 copay) and provides allowances for glasses ($100-$200) or contacts ($100-$200) annually. Medical eye conditions (glaucoma, cataracts, infections) are covered by health insurance, not vision insurance. The ACA mandates pediatric vision coverage.
How to Save Money
- Walmart, Costco, and America's Best offer competitive pricing
- Online retailers (Zenni, EyeBuyDirect) save 50-80% on glasses
- Vision insurance plans start at $10-$15/month
- HSA/FSA funds can cover vision expenses tax-free
- Check for free eye care programs (EyeCare America, VISION USA)
- Buy frames at one place, lenses at another for best pricing
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Restasis costs $300 to $600 per month without insurance. Generic cyclosporine eye drops may cost $200 to $400.
Most insurance plans cover prescription dry eye medications with prior authorization. Procedures like IPL are often considered cosmetic and not covered.
Treatment depends on severity: mild cases use artificial tears, moderate cases may need prescription drops like Restasis or Xiidra, and severe cases may benefit from punctal plugs or IPL therapy.