The lacrimal system is responsible for producing, distributing, and draining tears from the eye. When this system becomes blocked or doesn't function properly, it can cause excessive tearing, discharge, or even infections. Lacrimal surgery aims to restore normal tear drainage and alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): This is the most common procedure for treating blocked tear ducts. DCR creates a new pathway for tears to drain from the eyes to the nose, bypassing the blocked duct. The surgery can be performed externally (through a small incision on the side of the nose) or endoscopically (through the nose using a small camera). This procedure has a high success rate and can significantly improve quality of life for patients with chronic tearing.

Tear Duct Surgery: Various surgical techniques can be used depending on where the blockage occurs in the tear drainage system. This might involve opening up narrowed ducts, removing blockages, or placing small tubes (stents) to keep the drainage pathway open. The specific approach depends on the location and severity of the blockage.

Lacrimal System Reconstruction: In more complex cases where the normal anatomy has been significantly altered due to trauma, previous surgery, or congenital abnormalities, reconstruction of the lacrimal system may be necessary. This might involve using grafts or creating entirely new drainage pathways to restore proper tear flow.