Have you been told you need tear duct surgery? If so, you may be wondering what to expect. It’s normal to have some questions about the procedure, including what happens the day of your surgery and what the recovery is like.
Tear duct repair is designed to relieve a blocked tear duct, which can cause symptoms like chronic tearing and discomfort.
At Eyelid Pros, our board-certified surgical team offers tear duct surgery in Ann Arbor, MI, and the surrounding area. Our team is highly-skilled, offering the best in clinical care and customer service. Contact us to learn more about our approach to tear duct surgery.
What Can You Expect from Tear Duct Surgery?
Before Your Surgery
Tear duct blockage surgery, or the dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) procedure, must be diagnosed by a doctor. They’ll verify that blocked tear duct treatment is the right fit for you, and then discuss what to expect.
Your pre-operative appointment will review the procedure and give you a chance to ask any questions. You’ll also discuss your medical history with the doctor, so they can be aware of any factors that may complicate the tear duct surgery.
In addition, the doctor will give you a list of pre-op instructions, including:
- Planning for someone to bring you to and from the surgery
- Specific fasting instructions
- Medication instructions
- Getting a good night’s sleep the night before
- Avoiding alcohol
Day of the Surgery
On the day of your tear duct surgery, the staff will help you get checked-in for your procedure. When it’s time for you to go back, you’ll meet your surgical team and anesthesiologist. You’ll get a chance to ask any final questions before the surgery begins.
The anesthesiologist will explain what type of anesthesia will be used before administering it. For tear duct obstruction surgery, general anesthesia will typically be used. This ensures you’re comfortable and feel no pain during the procedure.
After you receive the anesthesia, the surgeon will begin by creating a new drainage pathway. This pathway starts from the lacrimal sac and enters directly through your nasal cavity. This allows your tears to bypass the blockage and drain naturally.
Tear duct surgery is relatively fast, lasting anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.
After the Surgery
After the tear duct surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery room. The nursing staff will monitor you until you wake up from the anesthesia. At first, you’ll likely feel groggy and disoriented. There may also be bloody discharge from your nose, as well as a feeling of pressure and mild discomfort.
Once you’re fully alert and stable, your pre-arranged driver can take you home. You’ll receive post-op instructions and medication to manage the pain. Your doctor will go over how to care for the area and instructions for resting and recovery.
Are You a Candidate for Tear Duct Surgery? Contact Us
Tear duct surgery can be intimidating, but knowing what to expect can minimize any anxiety and help you recover faster. Working with an experienced oculoplastic surgeon is also essential, as they can guide you through the procedure and answer all your questions.
At Eyelid Pros, our doctors have years of experience providing tear duct surgery in Ann Arbor, MI, and the surrounding areas. Our surgeons are certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and have completed residency training in ophthalmology. They’ve also completed fellowships in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Wondering if you’re a good candidate for tear duct surgery? Visit our specialists today to get an in-depth examination of your tear ducts. Contact us online today to get started.
