DCR Surgery (Dacryocystorhinostomy)

A New Path for Your Tears — Permanent Relief from Blocked Ducts

Constantly watery eyes are more than an inconvenience — they are a sign that the natural drainage pathway your tears depend on has become blocked. DCR Surgery creates a brand new drainage channel that bypasses the blockage entirely, allowing your tears to flow freely and comfortably once again. At RGC Eye Hospital, our experienced oculoplastic surgeons perform this procedure with precision and consistently excellent results.

Why Tear Ducts Get Blocked

Tears flow from the eye into the lacrimal sac and then down through the nasolacrimal duct into the nose. When this pathway becomes blocked — due to infection, inflammation, injury, or age-related narrowing — tears back up and spill constantly over the eyelid. DCR Surgery resolves this permanently by creating a direct new opening from the lacrimal sac straight into the nasal cavity, completely bypassing the blocked section.

Symptoms of a Blocked Tear Duct

• Constant watering or tearing from the eye
• Recurring eye infections and discharge
• Swelling and tenderness at the inner corner of the eye
• Blurred vision from a constant film of tears over the eye surface
• Crusting of the eyelashes, especially first thing in the morning

What Happens During the Procedure?

Step 1 — Anaesthesia

The procedure is carried out under local or general anaesthesia — your surgeon will discuss the best option for your individual situation.

Step 2 — Creating the New Opening

A small opening is carefully made in the bone between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity, creating a new, wide drainage route for tears to follow.

Step 3 — Joining Sac to Nose

The lining of the lacrimal sac is joined to the nasal lining, forming a permanent drainage channel through which tears can flow freely and naturally.

Step 4 — Stent and Closure

A soft silicone stent is placed temporarily to keep the new channel open during healing. It is removed comfortably in the clinic after two to three months, after which the channel functions independently and permanently.

After Surgery

Some nasal congestion and mild bruising are normal in the first week. Antibiotic drops and nasal sprays are prescribed. Avoid blowing your nose hard for two weeks. Once the stent is removed, tears drain freely through the new channel — and for the vast majority of patients, the problem is resolved completely and permanently.

Why Patients Trust RGC Eye Hospital

• Experienced oculoplastic surgeons in both external and endoscopic DCR techniques
• Endoscopic option available — no external scar and faster recovery
• Excellent long-term success rate with complete symptom resolution for most patients
• Clear guidance and support at every stage from consultation to full recovery