Endonasal DCR

Persistent watering may be caused by narrowing or blockage of the tear drainage system.

Treatment

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a highly effective procedure used to treat persistent watering caused by a blocked tear duct.

Using a minimally invasive endonasal approach, a new drainage pathway is created from within the nose, avoiding a visible skin scar and restoring normal tear drainage.

This advanced technique offers excellent functional results with a refined recovery experience.

On the Day of Surgery

DCR surgery is usually carried out as a day-case procedure under general anaesthetic.

On the day of surgery, you will meet both your consultant surgeon and anaesthetist in your private room before going to theatre.

A soft silicone stent will usually be placed temporarily within the tear drainage system to support healing and optimise the long-term result.

Patients are usually discharged later the same day once comfortable.

Recovery & Aftercare

Mild swelling around the inner corner of the eye, light nasal congestion, and slight blood-stained discharge from the nose for the first 24–48 hours are all expected.

After surgery, we generally advise:

• avoiding nose blowing for 2 weeks

• using prescribed antibiotic and nasal drops as directed

• avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 2 weeks

• sleeping with the head elevated

• avoiding swimming for 2 weeks

• avoiding hot food and drinks for 48 hours

The watering often improves gradually over 2–6 weeks, although final results continue to settle as healing progresses and once the stent is removed.

If a silicone stent is used, this is usually removed in clinic after 6–12 weeks.