Tear Duct Surgery in Reno
Tearing is a natural function of the eye, but proper tear drainage needs to occur to avoid issues. When the tear duct becomes blocked, tears can no longer drain from the eye. When this happens, patients may experience symptoms that range from annoying to painful. With professional tear duct surgery at Nevada Eye Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ko can clear the duct to restore proper tear function and drainage.
NEVADA EYE PLASTIC SURGERY
What Is Tear Duct Surgery?
Tear duct blockage can occur for a variety of reasons. The most common causes usually involve infection, injury, genetics, or tumor growth. Knowing the cause of the blockage is key to moving forward with the right procedure. Though the approach can vary, tear duct surgery aims to restore the eye’s ability to properly drain tears. Typically, this involves one of two approaches:
External : Insertion of a stent through an incision. The stent connects the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity to allow for tear drainage.
Endoscopic/endonasal : Avoids incisions and relies on an endoscopic camera to restore a connection in the duct system. No scarring, but less consistently effective than the external approach.
Signs of a Blocked Tear Duct
Patients can note a range of symptoms associated with a tear duct. However, they often start out minor and may be hard to notice. So we recommend keeping an eye out for:
- Tears dripping from your eyes
- Redness or irritation of the cornea
- Vulnerability to eye infections
- Pain coming from the inner corner of the eye
- Eyelid crusting
- Eye discharge (mucus, pus)
- Blurry vision
Key Benefits to Treating a Blocked Tear Duct
- Mild, quick procedure
- Consistently effective results
- Significant reduction in symptoms
- Well-tolerated recovery time
- Protect your eye from infection
When Can You See the Results?
Patients should begin seeing symptom improvement as soon as their swelling fades. The surgery creates an immediate way for tears to begin draining properly, eliminating the issue that caused your symptoms. While your results should be permanent, it is important to maintain proper eye care. Continued infection can interfere with your results, so we recommend following a few steps:
- Avoid rubbing your eyes with your hands
- Always wash your hands after going outside or handling food items
- Avoid environments that irritate the eyes
- Be careful when using agents that can damage the eyes
What Is the Recovery Like?
Patients can return home from tear duct surgery on the same day. Some soreness and discomfort are normal. However, they can be managed with OTC medication and will soon fade. Most patients will take about 1 week off from work, though this can vary. The most important factor is to follow your post-procedure instructions, such as:
- Taking prescribed medications
- Using antibiotic eyedrops as recommended
- Properly rinsing the nasal cavity
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Attending your follow-up appointment
Is Tear Duct Surgery Right for Me?
Tear duct surgery is a mild procedure, making it open to a wider range of potential patients. However, the choice to have the procedure is personal. But if you have symptoms of tear duct blockage, then this treatment may be right for you. The first step is to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ko. Receive an exam, learn about your treatment options, and start on a path toward healthier eyes.
NEVADA EYE PLASTIC SURGERY
Book Your Consultation
Learn more about our full suite of oculofacial procedures and start on your path toward experiencing relief from a blocked tear duct today. When you book your consultation for tear duct surgery in Reno with Dr. Ko, you can fully discuss your situation in a one-on-one meeting with a leading oculofacial surgeon. We look forward to helping you to achieve lasting relief from tear duct blockage through a safe and effective solution.
