Tears are essential for maintaining eye health, providing lubrication, and protecting against irritants. However, when tearing becomes excessive and persistent—a condition known as epiphora—it can interfere with daily life, causing discomfort and social embarrassment. At the Eyelid Center of Utah, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of excessive tearing, offering surgical solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Understanding Excessive Tearing
Excessive tearing occurs when there’s an imbalance between tear production and drainage. While overproduction of tears can be a factor, more commonly, the issue lies in the tear drainage system. Blockages or malfunctions in this system prevent tears from draining properly, leading them to overflow onto the cheeks.
Common Causes of Tearing Disorders
Several conditions can lead to excessive tearing:
- Blocked Tear Ducts: Obstructions in the nasolacrimal duct can prevent tears from draining into the nasal cavity.
- Eyelid Malpositions: Conditions like ectropion (outward turning eyelid) or entropion (inward turning eyelid) can disrupt tear flow.
- Inflammation or Infection: Chronic conjunctivitis or dacryocystitis can inflame the tear drainage system.
- Trauma or Surgery: Previous facial injuries or surgeries can damage the tear ducts.
- Congenital Abnormalities: Some individuals are born with underdeveloped or blocked tear ducts.
Surgical Treatment Options
When non-surgical treatments fail to alleviate excessive tearing, surgical intervention may be necessary. At the Eyelid Center of Utah, we offer several surgical procedures to address the root causes of epiphora:
1. Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)
DCR is a procedure that creates a new pathway for tears to drain from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity, bypassing the blocked nasolacrimal duct. There are two main approaches:
- External DCR: Involves a small incision on the side of the nose to access the lacrimal sac.
- Endoscopic DCR: A minimally invasive technique using nasal endoscopy, leaving no external scars.
This procedure has a high success rate and is often recommended for patients with nasolacrimal duct obstructions.
2. Punctoplasty
For blockages at the punctum (the small openings at the inner corners of the eyelids), a punctoplasty can be performed. This surgery enlarges the punctal openings, facilitating better tear drainage.
3. Canaliculoplasty
If the canaliculi (small channels that carry tears from the puncta to the lacrimal sac) are narrowed or scarred, a canaliculoplasty can reconstruct or widen these channels to restore proper tear flow.
4. Eyelid Malposition Correction
Surgical correction of ectropion or entropion involves tightening or repositioning the eyelid to its normal anatomical position, ensuring that the tear drainage system functions correctly.
5. Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR)
In cases where the tear drainage system is severely damaged or absent, a CDCR may be performed. This involves placing a small glass tube (Jones tube) to create a new tear drainage pathway from the conjunctiva to the nasal cavity.
The Surgical Process at Eyelid Center of Utah
Our approach to treating excessive tearing involves:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Utilizing diagnostic tools like dacryoscintigraphy or nasal endoscopy to pinpoint the blockage location.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the diagnosis, we recommend the most appropriate surgical procedure.
- Expert Surgical Care: Our oculoplastic surgeons specialize in delicate surgeries of the eyelid and tear drainage system.
- Postoperative Follow-Up: Ensuring proper healing and monitoring for any complications.
Recovery and Outcomes
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure:
- DCR: Most patients resume normal activities within a week, with full recovery in a few weeks.
- Punctoplasty/Canaliculoplasty: Typically, minimal downtime is required.
- Eyelid Surgeries: Swelling and bruising may persist for a week or two.
Our patients often report significant relief from tearing symptoms and improved quality of life post-surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is surgery the only option for treating excessive tearing?
A: Not always. Some cases respond to medications or non-surgical interventions. However, when these treatments fail, surgery may be the most effective solution.
Q: Will there be visible scars after surgery?
A: Procedures like endoscopic DCR leave no external scars. Even with external approaches, incisions are made in natural skin folds to minimize visible scarring.
Q: Are these surgeries covered by insurance?
A: Many functional procedures to correct tear drainage issues are covered. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Q: How do I know which procedure is right for me?
A: A thorough evaluation by our specialists will determine the cause of your excessive tearing and the most suitable treatment.
Schedule a Consultation for Excessive Tearing Relief in Salt Lake
If you’re experiencing persistent tearing that affects your daily life, the Eyelid Center of Utah is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clear, comfortable vision.
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