Lacrimal Disease Solutions: External vs. Endoscopic Surgery

Lacrimal disease — the term for conditions that affect the tear drainage system — can cause constant tearing, recurrent infections, and irritation that disrupts daily life. For many people, surgery offers lasting relief.

At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Inc., John B. Holds, MD, FACS, brings decades of specialized experience in oculofacial surgery to every treatment. Dr. Holds and his team are skilled in both external and endoscopic techniques, providing personalized solutions based on each patient’s needs. Learn more about both options below.

External Lacrimal Surgery: The Traditional Approach

External dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the most time-tested method for addressing blocked tear ducts. The procedure involves making a small incision along the side of the nose to create a new drainage pathway between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity.

External surgery benefits include:

• It has a proven track record with high success rates.
• The surgeon has direct visualization of the lacrimal sac and surrounding anatomy.
• The surgeon has the ability to remove abnormal tissue when needed.

However, there are also some considerations:

• It leaves a small external scar, though it typically fades with time.
• It may require a slightly longer recovery compared to endoscopic surgeries.

Endoscopic Lacrimal Surgery: The Scarless Option

Endoscopic DCR is performed entirely through the nasal passages using a small camera and specialized instruments. This approach eliminates the need for an external incision.

Benefits of endoscopic surgery include:

• There is no visible scar.
• The recovery time is shorter for many patients.
• There is an opportunity to treat certain nasal or sinus issues during the same procedure.

Here are some potential considerations to keep in mind:

• It requires advanced equipment and training.
• In select complex cases, success rates may be slightly lower than with external surgery.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between external and endoscopic lacrimal surgery depends on several factors, including:

• The cause and severity of your blockage.
• Any underlying sinus or nasal concerns.
• Your preferences for recovery and appearance.

The providers at Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery evaluate each case to recommend the most effective and least invasive choice.

Find Relief From Lacrimal Disease Today

If tearing and discomfort are interfering with your quality of life, surgical treatment could provide lasting improvement. Contact Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Inc. at 314-567-3567 to schedule a consultation and find out which lacrimal disease solution is right for you.