Tear duct explorations

• A full ophthalmological examination and eyelid and periocular examination.
• The tear fluid meniscus is assessed, i.e. the quantity of tear fluid that accumulates in the lower eyelid margin. Thus, the specialist can assess whether or not the tear duct is obstructed.
• Expression of the lacrimal sac is also assessed to check for tear retention. If tears are retained in the lacrimal sac, this can lead to infections.

This surgical procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and, when it involves children, is usually done under general anaesthetic.

In this procedure, a thin wire is guided through the tear duct. This allows the membranes blocking the tear duct to be opened up and the tears to drain properly.

• The results are practically immediate, although the final results are only noticeable after a few weeks.