Living with dry eyes can be uncomfortable, and for many people, the root cause is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). MGD reduces the quality of the oils in your tear film. Lack of oil causes tear evaporation and leading to eye dryness and irritation. Thankfully, treatments like RF (Radio Frequency), HELLO (Heated Expression of Lid Lipid Outflow), LipiFlow, and IPL are designed to help improve meibomian gland function. They relieve dry eye symptoms.
So let’s compare the advantages and disadvantages of these modern treatments. We will also look at the costs for they are not covered by medical nor optical insurance.
HELLO Treatment
– How It Works: HELLO is a revolutionary treatment. It uses targeted heat and pulsation to unclog the meibomian glands and stimulate natural oil flow. The session is quick, comfortable, and highly effective. It requires only one treatment for lasting relief.
– Advantages:
– Cost-Effective: At $575 per session, HELLO is one of the most affordable options for annual treatment. That’s equivalent to just $49 per month, comparable to the monthly cost of artificial tears but without the daily hassle
– Targeted Treatment: Dr. Khanna will apply the right pressure and customize treatment for each gland, focusing on those with the most blockage.
– Minimal Commitment: With only one session needed each year, HELLO is both convenient and efficient.
– Sustained Relief: HELLO’s innovative technology offers long-lasting comfort without needing frequent re-treatment.
– Immediate Results: Many patients feel instant relief and can see the meibum or oil being released.
– Frequency: Usually in our hands it’s a one-time treatment. Depending on the severity of MGD, some patients may need this treatment twice a year to maintain relief.
– Total Cost: The one time cost is $575
LipiFlow
– How It Works: LipiFlow is an FDA-approved device that combines heat with gentle pulsating pressure to unblock the meibomian glands. The device fits over the eye and provides consistent heat while gently massaging the glands.
– Advantages:
– Consistent Heat Application: LipiFlow maintains a steady temperature that softens the oils in the glands without burning the eyelid. It makes it safe and comfortable.
– Efficient Process: Treatment is quick (typically about 12 minutes per eye). Because the device handles both heat and pressure, it requires minimal intervention from the doctor.
– Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients report lasting improvements after a single session, reducing the need for frequent follow-ups.
– Typical Cost: $800 – $1,200 per session
– Frequency: LipiFlow is usually effective after a single session, with many patients experiencing relief lasting 6-12 months.
– Total Annual Cost: Some patients may require two LipiFlow treatment per year. The annual cost can vary $1,200 – $2,400.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment
– How It Works: IPL uses controlled bursts of light applied around the eyelids. It reduces inflammation, stimulate blood flow, and improve gland function. This light also shrinks blood vessels carrying inflammatory mediators, which helps decrease inflammation and improve oil production in the glands.
– Advantages:
– Reduces Inflammation: IPL targets underlying inflammation, which can improve symptoms for people with inflammatory types of MGD.
– Stimulates Collagen Production: IPL promotes skin health and may reduce the appearance of blood vessels around the eyes.
– Potential Skin Benefits: IPL is also used for cosmetic purposes, so patients might notice improved skin texture and tone.
– Typical Cost: $400 – $600 per session, with patients typically needing 4 sessions spaced about 3-4 weeks apart.
– Total Cost: Around $1600 to $2,400 for a full course, depending on the number of sessions recommended.
– IPL is often beneficial for patients with inflammatory MGD or rosacea-related dry eye, as it treats inflammation and enhances skin quality. However, it requires multiple sessions for optimal results.
Radio Frequency Therapy Optiplus
– How It Works: Radio frequency uses thermal energy generated by radio waves to heat the tissues around the eyelids, specifically targeting the meibomian glands. The heat melts and loosens the thickened oils in the glands,. It easier for them to be expressed naturally and helping to restore healthy oil flow to the tear film.
– Advantages:
- Effective Gland Stimulation: RF can help improve oil production and flow by stimulating the meibomian glands to release oils naturally.
- Reduces Inflammation and Tightens Skin: RF not only improves gland function but also tightens and rejuvenates the skin around the eyes, providing cosmetic benefits as well.
- Comfortable, Non-Invasive Treatment: Many patients find RF comfortable, with minimal side effects and little downtime.
- Longer-Lasting Relief: Relief from RF treatment can last several months, though additional sessions may be needed for optimal maintenance.
What to Expect with Radio Frequency Treatment
– Procedure Time: Each RF session typically lasts about 20-30 minutes.
– Frequency:: Most patients begin with a series of sessions (often 2-4) spaced about 1-2 weeks apart. Some people may only need maintenance treatments every 6-12 months afterward.
– Total Cost: Radio frequency therapy usually ranges from $600 – $1000 per session. The total cost can vary based on the number of sessions recommended by your doctor. Taking average of 3 the cost will be approx. $1800-3000.
Comparing The Four Treatments:
| Treatment | Cost | Sessions Required | Frequency | Advantages | Best For |
| HELLO | $575 One time | 1 | Once | Cost-effective, minimal sessions, sustained relief | Time and Cost-conscious patients desiring Targeted MGD Cure including styes |
| LipiFlow | $800 – $1,200 per session | 1 | Annual | Direct oil expression, FDA-approved for MGD | Targeted gland treatment |
| Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) | $900 – $2,000 for 3-4 sessions | 3-4 per course | 1-2 courses annually | Reduces inflammation, skin benefits | Inflammatory MGD, rosacea-related dry eye |
| Radio Frequency (RF) | $1800 – $2100 for 3 sessions | 2-4 initial sessions | Every 6-12 months | Gland stimulation, skin tightening benefits | Patients with MGD and those seeking skin improvement around eyes |
Is Radio Frequency Right for You?
Radio frequency therapy is ideal if you’re looking for a multi-benefit treatment. It not only addresses dry eye but also improves the skin around the eyes. It may also be a good choice if you’re interested in a customizable treatment plan that can be adjusted for long-term maintenance. Consulting with your eye care provider can help determine if RF is the best approach for your specific needs.
And the winner is. HELLO!
As you will see we did an in-depth comparison across Los Angeles of these various treatments and found out that hello is the most beneficial and also cost effective treatment provided it’s done by a skilled surgeon
HELLO treatment combines affordability, convenience, and results, setting it apart from other options like LipiFlow and IPL. Here’s why HELLO is the ideal solution:
– Affordability: At just $575, HELLO is budget-friendly. This breaks down to $49 per month—close to the cost of artificial tears, but with lasting results and none of the daily hassle.
– Single Treatment: Only needing one session means you don’t have to commit to frequent appointments. It’s a quick, effective solution that won’t disrupt your routine.
– Comprehensive Relief: HELLO addresses meibomian gland dysfunction by clearing blockages and stimulating natural oil flow. It is therefore an all-in-one solution for dry eyes.
It treats and prevents styes
If you’re ready to stop relying on daily eye drops and want effective, long-term dry eye relief, HELLO provides a balanced solution that’s both economical and effective. It’s a simple way to invest in your eye health without breaking the bank.
