Lacrimal System Surgery

Lacrimal system surgery corrects tear drainage disorders causing excessive tearing (epiphora) or infections (dacryocystitis). These procedures restore normal tear flow through delicate ducts, with >90% success rates in experienced hands.

Common Conditions Requiring Surgery

• Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction (Congenital/age-related)
• Dacryocystitis (Infected tear sac)
• Punctal Stenosis (Blocked tear drainage openings)

Surgical Options

1. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Punctal Plugs – Temporary blockage for dry eyes
• Balloon Dacryoplasty – Duct dilation (pediatric cases)

2. Major Surgeries

• Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) – Gold standard for blockages
  • External DCR (Skin incision)
  • Endoscopic DCR (No visible scars)
• Canaliculoplasty – Repairs canalicular strictures

Who Needs Surgery?

Symptoms Indicating Need:

• Chronic tearing interfering with vision
• Recurrent eye infections
• Mucopurulent discharge

Procedure & Recovery

• Duration: 30-90 minutes (local/general anesthesia)
• Recovery:
  • 1 week for endoscopic approaches
  • 2-3 weeks for external DCR

Advances in Tear Duct Surgery

• Laser-Assisted DCR – Enhanced precision
• Microendoscopic Techniques – Faster recovery
• Bioabsorbable Stents – No removal needed