Excessive tearing, also known as epiphora, can significantly impact your daily life by causing constant discomfort and blurred vision. At AestheticEye, our board-certified oculoplastic surgeons, Dr. Ginger Henson and Dr. Jonathan Pargament, specialize in advanced surgical treatments for excessive tearing, including eye tear duct surgery. Our goal is to provide effective relief and restore your comfort and eye health.
What Causes Excessive Tearing?
Excessive tearing occurs when there is an overproduction of tears or a blockage in the tear drainage system. This condition can result from various factors, including:
Blocked Tear Ducts
Obstructions in the nasolacrimal duct can prevent tears from draining properly.
Inflammation or Infection
Conditions such as dacryocystitis can cause swelling and blockage of the tear ducts.
Structural Abnormalities
Congenital or acquired structural issues can affect tear drainage.
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 Excessive Tearing
Common symptoms of excessive tearing include:
Constant Tear Overflow
Persistent tearing that spills over the lower eyelid.
Blurred Vision
Interference with vision due to excessive moisture on the eyes.
Eye Irritation
Redness, swelling, and discomfort around the eyes.
Recurrent Infections
Frequent eye infections due to poor tear drainage.
Advanced Surgical Solutions for Excessive Tearing
At AestheticEye, we offer various surgical treatments to address the underlying causes of excessive tearing. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure effective and lasting results.
Eye Tear Duct Surgery: Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a common surgical procedure used to treat blocked tear ducts. This procedure creates a new tear drainage pathway to bypass the blockage, allowing tears to drain properly into the nasal cavity.
The DCR Procedure
Incision
A small incision is made near the inner corner of the eye or inside the nose to access the tear duct.
New Drainage Pathway
A new pathway is created between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity to allow tears to drain freely.
Stenting
In some cases, a tiny stent may be placed to keep the new drainage pathway open during healing.
Canaliculoplasty
Canaliculoplasty is a surgical procedure to widen the tear ducts if they are too narrow, ensuring better tear drainage.
The Canaliculoplasty Procedure
Incision
A small incision is made in the tear duct.
Dilation
The duct is widened using specialized instruments.
Stenting
A stent may be placed to maintain the duct’s new width during healing.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Tear Duct Surgery?
Ideal candidates for tear duct surgery include individuals who:
Experience Persistent Tearing
Constant tearing that interferes with daily activities and vision.
Have Recurrent Infections
Frequent eye infections due to poor tear drainage.
Do Not Respond to Non-Surgical Treatments
Ineffective results from medications or other non-surgical interventions.
Seek Long-Term Relief
Desire a permanent solution to alleviate excessive tearing.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
Pre-Operative Evaluation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation at AestheticEye. Dr. Henson or Dr. Pargament will assess your condition, discuss your symptoms, and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
The Surgical Procedure
Tear duct surgeries are typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the complexity.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Initial Recovery
Most patients experience mild swelling and bruising for the first week or two.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure the success of the surgery.
Long-Term Care
Detailed post-operative care instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Frequently Asked Questions | Excessive Tearing Surgical Treatment
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Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within a week. Full recovery, including the resolution of swelling and bruising, may take several weeks.
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As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. These risks are minimized when the procedure is performed by experienced oculoplastic surgeons like Dr. Henson and Dr. Pargament.
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Insurance coverage varies, but if the surgery is deemed medically necessary to address functional issues, it may be covered. Our team at AestheticEye can help you navigate your insurance options.
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While tear duct surgery primarily addresses excessive tearing, it can indirectly improve vision by reducing tear overflow and associated blurriness.
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Initial results, such as reduced tearing, can be seen shortly after the procedure. Full benefits, including the resolution of swelling and optimal tear drainage, are typically achieved within a few weeks.
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The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
Schedule Your Consultation for Tear Duct Surgery at AestheticEye
If you are experiencing excessive tearing and seeking an effective surgical solution, contact AestheticEye today to schedule a consultation. Our expert surgeons, Dr. Ginger Henson and Dr. Jonathan Pargament, are here to provide you with the highest level of care and advanced surgical solutions. Discover the benefits of professional tear duct surgery at AestheticEye.
