External dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is an operation to bypass a blocked tear duct using a small incision on the side of the nose. It creates a new passage for tears to drain from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity.
How external DCR is done
Under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic, a fine cut is made between the eye and the nose. Bone is opened to connect the tear sac to the nasal cavity and, in many cases, soft silicone tubes are placed temporarily to keep the new channel open while it heals.
- Aim is to relieve constant watering and reduce the risk of infection
- The operation is usually a day-case procedure
- A small scar near the bridge of the nose tends to fade with time
- Nasal care and eye drops are used for a short period after surgery
Further information
External DCR is carried out within the oculoplastic surgery service at Blue Fin Vision®. Further background on watery eye management is given in epiphora treatment in north west London.
