Lacrimal surgery, also known as dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), is a procedure designed to address issues related to the tear drainage system. It is usually performed at a lacrimal surgery clinic and can only be done by a qualified surgeon like Dr. Debraj Shome.
Tears play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and comfort, as they help to lubricate the eye’s surface and wash away debris. When the normal flow of tears is disrupted, it can lead to discomfort, blurred vision, eye infections, and other major eye concerns.
Indications for Lacrimal Surgery
Lacrimal surgery is primarily indicated when there is an obstruction or dysfunction in the tear drainage system. The most common reasons for lacrimal surgery are:
Epiphora – Epiphora is a condition characterized by excessive tearing due to the improper drainage of tears. It can result from blocked tear ducts, misalignment of the puncta (small openings in the eyelids), or a narrowed nasolacrimal duct.
Dacryocystitis – This is an infection of the lacrimal sac, which can lead to symptoms such as pain, redness, and swelling near the inner corner of the eye. Dacryocystitis often occurs due to an obstruction in the nasolacrimal duct, preventing the normal flow of tears and leading to bacterial overgrowth.
Chronic conjunctivitis – Recurrent or chronic conjunctivitis may be associated with improper tear drainage, as the accumulation of tears can provide a fertile ground for bacteria to grow.
Discharge – Excessive and persistent discharge from the eyes can be a sign of an underlying tear drainage issue.
Techniques for Lacrimal Surgery
This Surgery is conducted by Best Plastic Surgeon in Mumbai
There are two main approaches to lacrimal surgery:
External DCR (dacryocystorhinostomy) – In this procedure, the surgeon makes an incision on the side of the nose near the lacrimal sac, to create a new drainage pathway for tears. He may remove a small piece of bone to connect the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity directly. The new connection bypasses the blocked area, restoring the normal tear flow. External DCR is generally the preferred method when there is a complete obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.
Endoscopic DCR – Endoscopic DCR is a less invasive procedure that uses a small, flexible endoscope to access and unblock the tear ducts through the nasal passages. It is often recommended for partial obstructions or when a minimally invasive approach is preferred.
Recovery and Outcome
Lacrimal surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, and patients can typically return home on the same day. Recovery time may vary depending on various factors such as the technique used and individual factors.
After the surgery, some patients experience various symptoms such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort. These symptoms can be easily managed with medications and warm or cold compresses. In case of bleeding, severe pain, or any other severe symptoms, seek professional attention immediately.
Generally, the success rate of lacrimal surgery is high, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in tear drainage and related symptoms. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications.
That is why working with a reputable clinic like The Esthetic Clinics with qualified surgeons like Dr. Debraj Shome is crucial to ensure minimal side effects and optimal results.
