Tearing / DCR:
Dr. Edmonson is an expert in tearing and will determine the exact reason that you are tearing. If you are tearing from a blockage of your tear drainage system (a nasolacrimal drainage obstruction), an external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) may be recommended. This procedure is an outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia.
There are many reasons why eyes tear. Eyes that are too dry or produce poor quality of tears can water. Eyelids that are too “loose” can cause tearing. A blockage of the tear drainage system can also cause tearing or infections. Many patients will have a combination of these problems that are causing their tearing. Eyes that tear can be very aggravating. Too many blur your vision. Constantly wiping your tears also irritates your delicate eyelid skin.
The purpose of the dacryocystorhinostomy surgery is to reroute your tear drainage system around the blocked area. An incision is placed on the skin between your nose and eyelid. This allows direct access to your tear drainage system. The bone between the tear sac and nose is removed, the lining of the tear sac is then attached to the lining of the nose to form a new permanent path for the tears to drain. A tiny stent is placed in the area to keep the new system open as it heals. The stent is removed in the office six weeks after surgery.
After your dacryocystorhinostomy surgery, there will be bruising and swelling. There may also be some bleeding from the nose. Pain is usually just for one day and is usually manageable with medication. Limited activity is required for two weeks and will be discussed in detail with you by Dr. Edmonson and her assistant.
