Punctal plug insertion is a dry eye treatment that places tiny devices into the tear drainage openings (puncta) of the eyelids to slow tear outflow. This helps keep more natural tears and lubricants on the eye surface.
The Procedure
After numbing drops, the clinician gently dilates the punctum and inserts a small silicone or dissolvable plug. Plugs may be placed in the lower puncta first and, if needed, later in the uppers.
- Usually completed in minutes in the clinic
- Dissolvable plugs are often used as a trial before longer‑term silicone ones
- Some designs sit at the opening; others are deeper intracanalicular plugs
- Patients may feel mild awareness initially that usually settles
Benefits and Considerations
Punctal plugs can significantly relieve dry eye symptoms in selected patients, particularly when drops alone are inadequate. They are part of a broader treatment plan rather than a stand‑alone cure.
- Possible side effects include watering, irritation, or spontaneous loss of the plug
- Rarely, plugs can cause canaliculitis or need removal
- Regular review checks comfort and continuing benefit
- Good lid hygiene and surface care remain important alongside plugs
