Tear Duct Repair in NYC

Tear duct repair is a specialized surgical procedure that restores proper tear drainage for individuals experiencing chronic tearing, infections, or blocked tear ducts. When the tear drainage system (also called the nasolacrimal system) becomes obstructed, it can lead to excessive tearing, eye irritation, and even infections. Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in NYC, is an expert in tear duct repair and performs this delicate procedure in our Manhattan office’s JCAHO-certified surgical suite or, when needed, in a hospital setting. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Schwarcz ensures your comfort, safety, and natural function are fully restored.

What Is Tear Duct Repair?

Tear duct repair, also known as dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) or nasolacrimal duct reconstruction, is performed to correct blockages in the tear drainage system.

Normally, tears drain through small openings in the corners of the eyelids (puncta), then through the tear ducts into the nose. When this system is blocked, it causes tears to overflow onto the face and can lead to recurring infections.

Dr. Schwarcz performs two types of procedures:

• External DCR: A small incision is made near the nose to create a new tear drainage pathway.

• Endoscopic DCR: A minimally invasive technique using a nasal endoscope, with no external incision.

The technique used depends on the type and location of the blockage, as well as the patient’s anatomy.

Who Is a Candidate for Tear Duct Repair?

You may be an excellent candidate for tear duct repair in NYC if you:

• Experience constant tearing (epiphora)

• Have frequent eye or tear duct infections

• Feel irritation, crusting, or discharge near the inner corner of your eye

• Have been diagnosed with a nasolacrimal duct obstruction

Tear duct repair is appropriate for both congenital and acquired blockages and is typically recommended after less invasive measures (like warm compresses or probing) have failed.

Who May Not Be a Candidate?

Tear duct repair may not be suitable for individuals who:

• Have active infections that require treatment before surgery

• Have uncontrolled medical conditions that affect healing

• Are not able to undergo anesthesia or surgical procedures

• Are experiencing tearing due to other causes (like eyelid malposition)

Dr. Schwarcz will conduct a thorough exam and diagnostic testing, such as a dye disappearance test or imaging, to determine the cause of your symptoms and confirm candidacy.

Planning for Surgery

Planning for tear duct repair involves a few important steps:

• Consultation: Dr. Schwarcz will assess your symptoms and perform diagnostic tests to identify the location of the blockage.

• Pre-Surgical Clearance: You may need to stop certain medications or obtain clearance from your primary physician.

• Timing: Schedule surgery at a time when you can recover at home for at least several days.

• Support: Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

You’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your individual health and the complexity of your repair.

What to Expect

Tear duct repair is performed in our accredited surgical suite or a hospital setting, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The surgery typically lasts 60–90 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Before Surgery: The treatment area is cleaned, and a small incision is marked (if doing an external DCR).

• During Surgery: Dr. Schwarcz creates a new drainage pathway from the tear sac to the nasal cavity. A tiny silicone stent may be placed to keep the new passage open during healing.

• After Surgery: You’ll recover in our office or hospital recovery suite before going home. Aftercare instructions will be reviewed in detail.

Dr. Schwarcz’s precision ensures a functional result with minimal scarring or discomfort.

Recovery

Recovery from tear duct repair is relatively quick:

• First Few Days: Expect some swelling, bruising near the eye, and mild nasal congestion. Cold compresses and prescribed medications can help.

• 1–2 Weeks: Most external swelling and bruising resolve. If a silicone stent was placed, it will remain in place for several weeks.

• 1 Month+: Full healing continues, and the new tear duct pathway becomes permanent. You’ll return for follow-ups and stent removal, if used.

Most patients resume normal activities within 7–10 days.

Results

Tear duct repair provides dramatic relief from chronic tearing and irritation. Once the duct is repaired and healed, tears drain properly, and the risk of infection decreases significantly.

Results include:

• Reduced or eliminated excessive tearing

• Decreased eye irritation or discharge

• Improved appearance and comfort

• Lasting relief with a high success rate

With Dr. Schwarcz’s surgical skill, you can expect functional restoration with subtle, natural-looking results.

Alternative Treatments

If tear duct repair isn’t appropriate or you’re not ready for surgery, alternatives may include:

• Probing and Irrigation: More common in pediatric cases or early blockages

• Artificial Tears and Lubricants: To ease discomfort while delaying surgery

However, surgical repair remains the most effective long-term solution for fully blocked ducts.

Why Choose Robert Schwarcz, MD?

With over 20 years of experience in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a trusted authority in treating functional eye conditions like tear duct blockages. His dual board certification and microsurgical expertise ensure precision and safety throughout every step of the process.

All procedures are performed personally by Dr. Schwarcz, either in our Manhattan JCAHO-certified surgical suite or a partnered hospital when required.

Tired of dealing with constant tearing or infections? Click the Request an Appointment button below and take the first step toward clear, comfortable eyes.