Dacryocystorhinostomy is tear duct surgery that creates a new pathway for tears to drain into the nose, easing constant watering and infections.
Why tear duct surgery is done
When the natural tear duct is blocked, tears spill onto the cheek and the inner corner may repeatedly become red, swollen, or infected. Surgery aims to bypass the blockage and give tears a clear, reliable route into the nose again.
- Helps people troubled by persistent watering despite drops and cleaning
- Reduces repeated bouts of painful tear sac infection dacryocystitis
- Can be performed through the skin or from inside the nose with an endoscope
- Often uses a soft silicone stent while the new channel heals
What to expect and recovery
The operation is usually done under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic, so you should feel relaxed and pain free during surgery.
Afterwards, bruising, stuffiness, and mild bloodstained tears are common for a week or two, then settle as healing progresses.
- You may need to avoid blowing your nose forcefully for a short period
- Nasal sprays and eye drops keep the new passage clean and comfortable
- Most people notice watering improve once swelling goes down
- Contact the clinic urgently if pain, swelling, or fever suddenly worsen
