Tear Drainage Disorders

What Are Drainage Disorders?

In order for the eye to function properly, it must be kept well lubricated. Accordingly, there is an extensive system of glands that produce different components of the tears that work together to form a functional tear film. This tear film is crucial to protecting the delicate surface of the eye, keeping the eye comfortable, and maintaining sharp vision. However, if there are too many tears covering the eye, this phenomenon can cause eye- related problems. Patients with excess tearing will often notice blurred vision, constant tears streaming down the face, redness and skin irritation from constantly dabbing tears, and recurrent infections. Oculoplastics surgeons focus on the problems involving the tear drainage system. There are multiple structures involved in the tear drainage system, and a careful exam is done to determine the cause of the decrease in tear drainage.

After a thorough evaluation with one of our oculoplastic specialists, our team can initiate an appropriate treatment plan. Due to the complexity of the cause, the treatment plan can range from an in- office medical treatment to surgery under general anesthesia. While recovery time may vary, you will be able to read and drive the following day, and will need to refrain from strenuous activity for about a week. The surgery itself is often quite short, lasts less than one hour, and patients return home the same day.