Tear duct plug

Sometimes local anesthetic drops are administered before the procedure, but in many cases anesthesia is not required.

Before your doctor inserts a plug, he/she will measure the opening of your tear duct to determine the size of the plug you need to close your tear duct. The exact way your doctor inserts the plug depends on the design and shape. Some plugs come with special insertion guides, while others are inserted with forceps or other instruments. Punctal plugs can be inserted into the lower eyelid, upper eyelid, or both. The location of insertion also depends on the type of plug. Some plugs are visible after insertion. Others are inserted deeper into the tear duct and are not visible when looking in the mirror. During the insertion of the plugs, you may feel a slight discomfort, but it will be short-lived.

Most people do not feel the plugs once they are inserted. If they do feel them, it is a slight sensation that is not bothersome. Immediately after the procedure, you can resume your normal activities and drive yourself home. Pressing on the plugs should be avoided or they may fall out.

Puncture plugs dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed. Permanent puncture plugs do not need to be removed unless they bother you or an infection occurs (which is extremely rare). Removing puncture plugs is usually very easy. Your doctor can pull the clot out with tweezers. If the plug has moved deeper into the tear duct and cannot be removed with forceps, it can be flushed out with saline.

• Plug falling out
• Excessive tearing
• Eye infection
• Migration of the plug

If any of the mentioned complications occur, please contact us and do not try to fix the problem on your own. In general, plugs that have fallen out should not be reused. Likewise, the removal of plugs should only be done by a professional.

• Allergy to the material of the plugs (e.g. silicone)
• Inflammation of the eyes and tear ducts
• Problems or blockages of the tear duct