Epiphora or watery eye
What is epiphora?
Watering eyes is also known as epiphora and can be caused by excessive tear production and the obstruction to the outflow of tears.
This can be due to the narrowing of the opening of the drainage passage (lacrimal punctum). It could also be because the passage (lacrimal canaliculus) that drains the tears from the punctum into a small sac (lacrimal sac) in the upper part of the nose is obstructed.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of watering eyes can vary depending on the cause, the commonest being an excessive production of tears which are not able to drain adequately into the nasolacrimal duct or drainage system of the eye. This causes tears to overflow and run down the face. Other symptoms may include increased sensitivity to light, redness, and eye soreness.
What are the epiphora treatment options?
If the opening (lacrimal punctum) is narrow causing a tear outflow obstruction, a surgical procedure to widen the lacrimal punctum can be effective in improving the watery eye by facilitating the flow of the tears into the lacrimal passages. It is called lacrimal punctoplasty.
Dacryocystorhinostomy is an epiphora treatment option to correct the narrowing or obstruction of the tear duct passages. The endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy involves creating a small opening via the nose from the lacrimal sac into the nose above the blockage. If the canaliculi are severely blocked then insertion of a Lester Jones permanent bypass tube may be required.
What are the risks for dacryocystorhinostomy?
- the success rate is 85-90% and may require repeat surgery
- infection (rare)
- bleeding (rare in endoscopic procedures)
- discomfort
What can I expect following epiphora treatment?
- mild bleeding may occur
- avoid strenuous activity for 1
- avoid blowing your nose for 7-10 days
- mild discomfort may occur for which analgesia (paracetamol) may be taken
Our Treatments and Price List
| New patient consultation | £320 |
| Follow up appointment | £280 |
| Punctoplasty | £550 |
| Dacryocystorhinostomy | £3500 |
| tear duct drainage surgery |
If you would like to discuss Ophthalmology treatments, please get in touch with a member of our team
