Tearing Management

A tearing management identifies the cause of excessive tearing or watery eyes, which can result from blocked tear ducts, eyelid malposition, or other eye conditions. Proper diagnosis allows for targeted treatment to restore comfort, protect the eye, and improve vision.

Possible treatments include:

  • Tear Drain Stenting: A small temporary or permanent stent may be placed in the tear duct to keep it open and allow proper drainage.
  • Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): A surgical procedure that creates a new tear drainage pathway when the natural duct is blocked, resolving chronic tearing and preventing recurrent infections.

These procedures are performed with careful planning to maximize comfort, effectiveness, and natural eyelid function.

Frequently asked questions

Here are answers to common questions about eyelid conditions, oculoplastic procedures, and what to expect during your visit.

Common causes include blocked tear ducts, eyelid malposition, dry eyes (causing reflex tearing), infections, or eyelid inflammation.

A thorough eye and eyelid examination, sometimes with specialized dye tests or imaging, helps identify the source of tearing.

A small stent is placed in the tear duct to keep it open, allowing tears to drain normally. It can be temporary or permanent depending on your needs.

DCR is a surgical procedure that creates a new pathway for tears to drain when the natural duct is blocked. It is highly effective in resolving chronic tearing.

The evaluation itself is comfortable. Treatments like stenting or DCR are performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort.

Most patients experience mild swelling or bruising for 1–2 weeks. Normal activities can usually be resumed within a few days.

When the underlying cause is properly treated, tearing is usually permanently resolved. Some patients may need minor adjustments or follow-up care.

Patients with chronic tearing that affects comfort, vision, or daily activities, or those with recurrent eye infections due to blocked tear ducts, are typically good candidates.