How Is Tear Duct Surgery Performed?

Excessive tearing can interfere with your vision and make daily tasks extremely difficult. At-home treatment options may help minor cases. These options often include eye drops and a warm compress. However, when conservative treatments do not work, intervention is necessary. Tear duct surgery may be the next step. Many patients are concerned about the procedure. However, it is safe, effective, and a smooth process. You may wonder, how is tear duct surgery performed? Below you will find helpful information about tear duct surgery and why it may be right for you.

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Tear duct surgery addresses a blockage or narrowing within the nasolacrimal drainage system. These are the two common reasons for excessive tearing. A blocked or narrowed tear duct can develop for several reasons. These include chronic sinus infections, nasal trauma, and prior facial surgery. Certain inflammatory conditions and age-related changes can lead to progressive blockage. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step in getting the right treatment. The process begins with a consultation with a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon.

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The most common tear duct surgery is referred to as a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). The surgery creates a new drainage channel between the tear sac and the nasal cavity. There are two ways to reach the area. The first option involves the surgeon making a small incision externally through the skin. The second option is accessing it endoscopically through the nostril. One of the major benefits of the endoscopic surgical approach is that there is no visible scarring. This also allows for a faster recovery time so that you can get back to your daily routine.

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The surgical approach that is right for you depends on your unique anatomy and the location of your blockage. A temporary silicone stent is often placed in the opening to keep the new passage open as it heals. The procedure takes between 45 minutes and two hours. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, so you can go home the same day.

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Recovering from tear duct surgery is smooth. The process can vary from patient to patient. However, it generally takes a few days to get back to your routine. There are several proactive steps you can take to streamline the process.

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Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery. This includes activity restrictions, medication regimen, how to manage your symptoms, and when your follow-up appointments are. Follow these instructions exactly to ensure optimal recovery. If you notice any symptoms after surgery that are not normal, contact your surgeon right away. They can modify your aftercare instructions as needed.

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You will notice swelling and bruising around the eye and nose after surgery. This is completely normal and should subside within the first few days. To manage swelling, use a cold compress throughout the day. Cover it with a clean towel and apply it gently to your face. Nasal congestion and minor bleeding are also common. These also resolve within a few days. It is helpful to rest for the first couple of days after surgery. It can help streamline the recovery process and get you back to your routine. Most patients are back to their routine within a few days to one week.

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Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and bending over should be avoided until your surgeon clears you. Each patient is different, but it can take up to a month to get back to your full exercise routine. You should also avoid swimming and submerging your face in water for several weeks. Avoid blowing your nose entirely during your initial recovery period. If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses until the tissue fully heals. Following these restrictions reduces your risk of infection, bleeding, and delayed healing after surgery.

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You will have one or more follow-up appointments after surgery. It is important to attend all of these appointments, regardless of how you feel and your recovery progress. If a silicone stent was placed, your surgeon will remove it between six and twelve weeks later. These visits allow your surgeon to assess the new drainage pathway. Do not avoid your follow-up visits, as they are necessary to ensure your pathway stays open and fully functioning.

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There are several signs you may need tear duct surgery. Early intervention is key when it comes to excessive tearing. You may not need surgery right away, as conservative treatments are often attempted first. However, severe cases do require surgical intervention. Below are some indications you may need tear duct surgery.

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Ongoing tearing that does not improve with at-home or conservative treatment may require surgery. If symptoms persist for more than one month, consult with a skilled oculoplastic surgeon. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine the best treatment option for you.

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Recurrent eye issues are a clear sign of an issue. This includes recurrent eye infections or discharge. This is especially problematic if it is near the inner corner of the eye. It is often a sign of a blocked or narrowed tear duct. Some patients with tear duct issues also notice recurring styes or swelling near the tear sac area. If these symptoms are left untreated, they can become much more difficult to manage over time.

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Ongoing irritation is a cause for medical concern that requires an evaluation. This includes irritation, redness, or a gritty sensation near the tear duct. These symptoms may get worse when it is windy or cold out. Because of this, patients often falsely assume that it is allergies. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the cause of the irritation. Early intervention is the best course of action. It can reduce the risk of further harm and make managing the underlying issue much easier.

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If you struggle with tearing, contact the team at Jennifer Murdock Oculofacial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!