Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery is a specialized procedure designed to treat blocked tear ducts, a condition that can cause excessive tearing, recurrent eye infections, and discomfort. At AestheticEye in Cincinnati, OH, our board-certified oculoplastic surgeons, Dr. Ginger Henson and Dr. Jonathan Pargament, offer advanced DCR surgery to help restore proper tear drainage and improve your eye health. Serving Cincinnati, Dayton, our team is committed to providing personalized care and effective solutions for blocked tear ducts.
Understanding Blocked Tear Ducts
A blocked tear duct occurs when the nasolacrimal duct, which drains tears from the eye into the nose, becomes obstructed. This can lead to excessive tearing (epiphora), recurrent eye infections, and inflammation. Blocked tear ducts can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to injury, infection, or inflammation.
Dr. Ginger Henson was a perfect choice for me! She did an excellent job. I had no pain and healed up better than ever! I’m so happy with the job she did for me!
Symptoms of Blocked Tear Ducts
Common symptoms of a blocked tear duct include:
Excessive Tearing
Persistent tearing that can cause blurred vision and discomfort.
Recurrent Eye Infections
Frequent infections due to stagnant tears providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
Swelling and Redness
Inflammation and redness around the inner corner of the eye.
Mucus Discharge
Discharge of mucus or pus from the eye, particularly when pressing on the area near the tear duct.
Causes of Blocked Tear Ducts
Blocked tear ducts can be caused by various factors, including:
Congenital Blockage
Incomplete development of the tear duct system at birth.
Infections
Chronic sinus infections or conjunctivitis that lead to scarring and blockage.
Trauma
Injury to the face or nose that damages the tear duct.
Inflammatory Conditions
Conditions such as sarcoidosis or Wegener’s granulomatosis that cause inflammation and blockage.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery is a procedure that creates a new tear drainage pathway to bypass the blocked nasolacrimal duct. This allows tears to drain properly into the nose, alleviating the symptoms of a blocked tear duct.
Traditional DCR vs. Endoscopic DCR
There are two main approaches to DCR surgery:
Traditional (External) DCR
An incision is made on the side of the nose, near the inner corner of the eye. The surgeon creates a new drainage pathway from the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity. This approach provides direct access to the tear drainage system and allows for precise reconstruction.
Endoscopic (Internal) DCR
Performed using an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera), this minimally invasive technique involves creating the new drainage pathway through the nasal cavity without an external incision. This approach results in less visible scarring and a quicker recovery.
Benefits of DCR Surgery
Choosing DCR surgery at AestheticEye offers numerous benefits, including:
Restored Tear Drainage
Effective relief from excessive tearing and associated discomfort.
Reduced Infection Risk
Decreased likelihood of recurrent eye infections.
Minimized Scarring
Endoscopic DCR offers a scar-free approach with quicker healing.
Improved Quality of Life
Enhanced comfort and vision, leading to better overall eye health.
The DCR Procedure Performed by Skilled Oculoplastic Surgeons
At AestheticEye, our surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for DCR surgery. The procedure involves:
Consultation and Evaluation
Comprehensive assessment of your symptoms and tear drainage system to determine the appropriate approach.
Customized Surgical Plan
Tailored plan based on your specific needs and anatomical considerations.
Surgery
Performed under local or general anesthesia, with precise creation of the new drainage pathway.
Post-Operative Care
Detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from DCR surgery is generally smooth, with most patients experiencing:
Mild Swelling and Bruising
Temporary swelling and bruising around the surgical site, which typically subsides within a week or two.
Minimal Discomfort
Discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients can resume normal activities within a week, with full recovery taking a few weeks.
The final results will include improved tear drainage, reduced symptoms, and enhanced eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions | Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery
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DCR surgery is a procedure that creates a new tear drainage pathway to bypass a blocked tear duct, allowing tears to drain properly into the nose.
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If you experience persistent excessive tearing, recurrent eye infections, or swelling and redness around the inner corner of the eye, a consultation with our surgeons can determine if DCR surgery is right for you.
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The DCR procedure typically takes about one to two hours, depending on the complexity and whether traditional or endoscopic techniques are used.
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As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. These risks are minimized when the surgery is performed by experienced oculoplastic surgeons like Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament at AestheticEye.
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Recovery involves mild swelling and bruising, which typically subside within a week or two. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week, with full recovery taking a few weeks.
Schedule Your Consultation for DCR Surgery in Cincinnati
If you are experiencing symptoms of a blocked tear duct and are seeking effective treatment options, contact AestheticEye today to schedule a consultation. Our expert surgeons, Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament, will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Discover the benefits of advanced Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery at AestheticEye, serving Cincinnati, Dayton, OH.
