If you have a blocked tear duct, you might need tear duct surgery from a reconstructive plastic surgeon. These ophthalmic doctors and facial plastic surgeons determine the cause and severity of your blocked tear duct, or dacryostenosis. They’ll also determine if surgery is the most effective treatment. If you require a specialized procedure, you want it to be handled by a licensed, trained, and certified medical professional. Ophthalmic and facial plastic surgeons offer the best treatment for your blocked tear duct.
Blocked Tear Duct: Signs and Symptoms
A condition known as epiphora is the most common symptom of a blocked tear duct. This causes excessive tears and watery eyes. It’s common for people with a blocked tear duct to have their eyes well up with tears even when they’re not crying. It’s also common for these people to have tears stream down their faces. Here are some other symptoms associated with a blocked tear duct:
- Crusting Around Eyelashes/Eyelids: This symptom is most common when you wake up.
- Redness/Irritation of the Eye: This is caused by the constant moisture in your eye and the potential for infection.
- Swelling/Tenderness Near Inner Corner of the Eye: This is usually a sign of inflammation or infection.
- Recurrent Eye Infections: Bouts of conjunctivitis (pink eye) or infections of the tear sac (dacryocystitis), which can cause pain, redness, and pus.
- Mucus/Pus Discharge: This comes from the eye or as a result of pressing on the tear sac area.
- Blurred Vision: You experience this due to the film of excess tears on the surface of your eye.
If you’ve experienced these symptoms, you might have seen your primary physician address them. After an eye examination and other basic tests, your doctor might have diagnosed the problem as a blocked tear duct. They also recommend the best treatment plan to address this issue. If your doctor recommends surgery, you’ll need to find an experienced ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Tear Duct Surgery: What to Expect from the Procedure
A dacryocystorhinostomy, or DCR, is one of the most common surgical procedures used to treat a blocked tear duct. Whether you need this procedure or another surgical treatment typically depends on the severity of your condition. After an examination and consultation, your surgeon recommends the best tear duct surgery procedure to address your condition. They’ll also answer your questions and guide you through the process as part of your customized treatment plan.
Your successful tear duct surgery helps alleviate the physical discomforts of watery eyes and recurring infections. You can enjoy another underestimated benefit from this procedure: authentic facial expressions and social confidence. Chronic tearing and redness can make you look sad, tired, or emotional even when you’re not. After your successful surgery, your eyes will reflect your genuine emotions, making it easier to engage in social interactions with confidence.
Blocked Tear Duct: Discover Trusted Surgeons for the Best Treatment
Are you searching for the best treatment for your blocked tear duct in Southgate, Michigan; Livonia, Michigan; or Ann Arbor, Michigan? Our board-certified surgical team at Consultants in Ophthalmic & Facial Plastic Surgery provides a comprehensive consultation and recommends the best treatment for you. Our professionals also create a personalized treatment plan and post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery. Would you like an expert consultation for your blocked tear duct? Contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experts.
