Tear duct obstruction
We perform surgery for nasolacrimal duct obstruction, restoring tear drainage by reopening or bypassing the blocked pathway. We use advanced equipment and have a highly qualified team of specialists to provide an effective solution with high-quality care and a professional, compassionate approach.
What is nasolacrimal duct obstruction?
Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a common cause of tearing and eye irritation, as it prevents the normal drainage of tears from the eye to the nose. It is often associated with recurrent conjunctivitis, as the lacrimal sac acts as a reservoir for bacteria that can become infected.
In some cases, an acute infection of the lacrimal sac may develop, known as acute dacryocystitis. This condition presents with inflammation, warmth, and pain in the inner corner of the eye and must be treated urgently with oral antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading to the face and eye.
What causes nasolacrimal duct obstruction?
This condition can have various causes.
In infants, it is usually congenital—present at birth. The tear duct may be underdeveloped, closed, or partially blocked. Sometimes it resolves on its own within a few months, but in other cases, surgery is required to correct the obstruction.
To determine the appropriate treatment, it’s important to visit a pediatric ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
In adults, the obstruction is typically acquired. It may result from trauma, injuries, nasal allergies, aging, infections, or tumors. For this reason, it’s important to undergo appropriate studies and tests to fully assess the case and identify any underlying condition that also needs treatment.
Schedule an appointment at Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera.
Symptoms of nasolacrimal duct obstruction
Knowing the common symptoms can help you recognize this condition and seek a prompt diagnosis and treatment from our ophthalmologists.
- Tearing or epiphora: This is the main symptom and causes tears to overflow onto the face or cheeks when not crying. In adults, it can appear suddenly. In infants, it’s usually noticeable within the first 2–3 weeks after birth.
- Crusting on the eyes: In some cases, thicker tears can dry on the eye and form crusts, like dense mucus or gritty particles.
- Conjunctivitis: This eye infection, involving pus or sticky eyelids, is more common in babies than in adults.
If you suspect you or your baby may have a blocked tear duct, schedule a consultation with our specialists at Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera.
What is the treatment?
Treatment for nasolacrimal duct obstruction is always surgical.
Currently, there is no medical treatment that cures the obstruction. Antibiotics are only used to treat infections that may result from the blockage but do not resolve the underlying condition. Surgery is required for an effective and definitive solution and to prevent related complications.
Surgery does not reopen the blocked duct—it creates a new drainage pathway from the lacrimal sac to the nose. This procedure is called a Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).
Dacryocystorhinostomy Surgery
There are different techniques for DCR. The specialist will determine the most suitable option based on a thorough study of your case. At Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera, we use advanced technology and the safest, most effective methods for surgical treatment of tear duct obstruction.
- Laser DCR: A less invasive, safer, and simpler surgery with minimal physical and postoperative effects. However, not all patients are candidates for this technique. During the preoperative evaluation, we will carefully assess your case and clearly explain whether this approach is viable for you and why.
- External DCR: Recommended for patients who are not candidates for laser-assisted surgery. A small, nearly invisible incision is made through the skin next to the nose on the affected side. It does not leave visible scars.
Schedule a consultation with our specialists at I.O. Castanera.
Our specialists talk about nasolacrimal duct obstruction
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Professionals who form the medical team for nasolacrimal duct obstruction
Frequently asked questions
In general, it is a smooth process—simpler and more comfortable when laser-assisted surgery is used. For a few weeks, you’ll need to use a nasal decongestant spray and possibly eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the operated area.
In this case, tears cannot drain properly. The eye becomes watery and irritated, which is very uncomfortable and affects quality of life. It can also lead to infections.
In most cases, this condition cannot be prevented, except in specific situations such as contact sports or high-risk occupations, where protective measures to avoid facial trauma can help prevent nasolacrimal duct obstruction caused by injury.
It is usually a quick procedure—around 20 minutes if both eyes are operated on.
