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What is Dacryocystorhinostomy?

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Dacryocystorhinostomy, often abbreviated as DCR, is a specialised surgical procedure designed to treat blocked tear ducts. This highly effective treatment helps restore the proper drainage of tears from the eye into the nose, alleviating symptoms such as watery eyes and recurring infections. At Blue Fin Vision®, our expert ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons provide world-class tear duct surgery using both traditional and cutting-edge techniques to ensure optimal results for our patients across London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield.

Understanding Tear Ducts and How They Work

Our eyes constantly produce tears to keep them moist, clean, and protected from irritants. In a healthy eye, tears flow across the surface before draining through tiny openings (puncta) at the inner corners of your upper and lower eyelids. From there, tears travel through small channels (canaliculi) into the lacrimal sac and finally through the nasolacrimal duct into the nose, where they are either reabsorbed or evaporate.

When this drainage system functions properly, you’ll rarely notice your tears unless you’re crying or experiencing irritation. However, when a blockage occurs anywhere along this pathway, tears cannot drain effectively and may overflow onto the cheek, causing persistent watery eyes and potentially leading to infection.

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What Causes a Blocked Tear Duct?

Several factors can contribute to tear duct blockages, including:

  • Age-related changes that narrow the drainage passages
  • Chronic inflammation of the tear drainage system
  • Nasal or sinus conditions affecting the surrounding structures
  • Previous facial trauma or injury
  • Complications from previous nasal or sinus surgery
  • Environmental allergies causing chronic inflammation
  • Chronic use of certain eye drops or medications

Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have a blocked tear duct that could benefit from evaluation by our specialists at Blue Fin Vision®:

  • Persistent watery eye (epiphora)
  • Recurrent eye infections or inflammation
  • Sticky discharge from the eye
  • Pain or swelling near the inner corner of the eye
  • Blurred vision due to excess tears
  • Crusting of the eyelids, particularly upon waking

What is Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) Surgery?

Dacryocystorhinostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a new pathway for tear drainage when the natural duct becomes blocked. The term comes from “dacryo” (tears), “cysto” (sac), “rhino” (nose), and “ostomy” (creating an opening).

During this procedure, a surgeon creates a new connection between the lacrimal sac and the inside of the nose, effectively bypassing the blockage in the nasolacrimal duct. This new pathway allows tears to drain properly again, resolving symptoms of excessive tearing and reducing the risk of infection.

At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we offer two main approaches to dacryocystorhinostomy:

External Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

External DCR is the traditional approach and has an excellent success rate of approximately 90%. During this procedure:

  • A small incision (approximately 1-1.5 cm) is made on the side of the nose near the inner corner of the eye
  • The surgeon accesses the lacrimal sac and removes a small amount of bone between the sac and the nasal cavity
  • A new passage is created, allowing tears to drain directly into the nose
  • Small silicone tubes may be placed temporarily to keep the new pathway open during healing
  • The incision is closed with fine sutures that are typically removed after about a week

While this approach does create a small scar, our skilled surgeons at Blue Fin Vision® use meticulous techniques to ensure that it heals to become nearly invisible in most patients.

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

Endoscopic DCR is a minimally invasive alternative that has gained popularity in recent years. During this procedure:

  • A thin endoscope (surgical telescope) is inserted through the nostril
  • The surgeon visualises the area inside the nose where the new drainage pathway will be created
  • Specialised instruments are used to create the opening without any external incisions
  • As with external DCR, silicone tubes may be placed to maintain the opening during healing

The main advantage of endoscopic DCR is the absence of an external scar. However, it typically has a somewhat lower success rate (around 85-90%) compared to the external approach.

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The DCR Procedure at Blue Fin Vision®

When you choose Blue Fin Vision® for your tear duct surgery, you’ll benefit from our comprehensive approach to care:

Before Surgery

  • Thorough consultation and examination to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate surgical approach
  • Detailed explanation of the procedure, expected outcomes, and recovery process
  • Comprehensive pre-operative testing to ensure safety
  • Clear instructions on medication management before surgery

During Surgery

  • The procedure typically takes about 60 minutes
  • Most patients receive local anaesthesia with sedation, though general anaesthesia may be recommended in some cases
  • Our surgeons use precise techniques to minimise trauma and optimise results
  • Silicone tubes may be placed to maintain the newly created passage

After Surgery

  • Most patients can go home the same day
  • You’ll receive antibiotic eye drops and possibly nasal sprays to prevent infection
  • Some mild bruising and swelling may occur but typically resolves within 1-2 weeks
  • The silicone tubes are usually removed after 6-12 weeks during a follow-up appointment
  • Our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions and remains available to address any concerns

Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Your Dacryocystorhinostomy?

At Blue Fin Vision®, we understand that choosing where to have your tear duct surgery is an important decision. Here’s why patients across London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield trust us with their eye care:

Expert Specialists

Our team includes ophthalmologists with extensive experience and specialised training in performing both external and endoscopic DCR procedures. They stay at the forefront of the latest techniques to provide optimal results with minimal discomfort.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our clinics are equipped with advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment, ensuring precise diagnosis and treatment of tear duct blockages. Our facilities meet the highest standards of medical care and patient comfort.

Convenient Locations

We understand the importance of accessibility when it comes to healthcare. Blue Fin Vision® proudly serves patients at our clinics in:

  • Harley Street, London – our flagship location in the heart of London’s medical district
  • Weymouth Street, London – a discreet and convenient central London location
  • Chelmsford, Essex– providing expert care to patients in Essex
  • Hatfield, Hertfordshire – serving the Hertfordshire community with the same high standards

Personalised Care

We recognise that every patient is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your specific concerns and tailor our approach accordingly. From your initial consultation through to your final follow-up appointment, you’ll receive individualised attention and care.

Proven Results

Our high success rates and excellent patient satisfaction reflect our commitment to exceptional surgical outcomes. We’re proud of the difference we make in our patients’ lives by resolving the discomfort and inconvenience of blocked tear ducts.

Take the First Step Towards Relief from Watery Eyes

Living with a blocked tear duct can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. Constant tearing may interfere with your daily activities, while recurrent infections can cause pain and concern. Dacryocystorhinostomy at Blue Fin Vision® offers a highly effective solution with excellent long-term results.

Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care throughout your treatment journey. To learn more about DCR or to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, contact Blue Fin Vision® today.

Experience the difference that expert care makes at London’s premier eye clinic. Your journey to optimal eye health and clear, comfortable vision starts here at Blue Fin Vision®. Let our dedicated team guide you towards a brighter, clearer future.

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