Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a leading expert in tear duct repair in NYC, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions for blocked tear ducts. With extensive experience in facial and reconstructive surgery, he ensures natural, functional results tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you visit our Manhattan or Rye office, you’ll receive personalized, expert care in a welcoming environment.
Ready to restore healthy tear drainage and clear, comfortable eyes? Click the Request an Appointment button below to take the first step toward expert treatment and relief.
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COMPLEMENTARY
Tear duct repair restores proper tear drainage, relieving excessive tearing, irritation, and infections.
Non-Surgical Tear Flushing: Offers immediate improvement for minor blockages.
Surgical DCR: Provides long-term, permanent relief for severe cases.
Minimal scarring and natural results due to Dr. Schwarcz’s expertise in facial surgery.
Most patients experience significant improvement in tear flow, leading to clearer, more comfortable eyes.
RESULTS
Recovery from tear duct repair depends on the treatment type:
First 24-48 Hours: Expect mild swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with cold compresses and prescribed medication.
1 Week: Most patients can return to light activities after tear duct flushing. Surgical patients may have minor bruising or tenderness around the eye.
2-3 Weeks: Swelling subsides, and tear drainage normalizes.
Full Healing: By 4-6 weeks, surgical patients will experience clear, comfortable eyes with reduced tearing.
Dr. Schwarcz will provide follow-up care to ensure proper healing and successful treatment outcomes.
RECOVERY
Tear duct repair can be non-surgical or surgical, depending on the severity of the blockage.
Non-Surgical Treatment: Tear Duct Flushing
Quick, in-office procedure (usually 15-30 minutes).
A fine instrument is used to flush saline through the tear duct, clearing minor obstructions.
Immediate relief with little to no downtime.
Surgical Treatment: Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)
Performed under local or general anesthesia in a JCAHO-certified surgical suite.
A small incision is made near the inner corner of the eye or inside the nose to create a new tear drainage pathway.
Silicone stents may be placed temporarily to keep the new passage open.
The procedure takes 1-2 hours, and patients return home the same day.
Dr. Schwarcz uses precise, minimally invasive techniques to ensure a smooth recovery and natural-looking results.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Proper preparation ensures a smooth treatment process and optimal recovery. Key steps include:
Medical Evaluation: A comprehensive eye exam and imaging tests may be performed to assess the severity of the blockage.
Medications: Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Reduce alcohol intake and quit smoking to promote healing.
Transportation & Support: If undergoing surgery, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Dr. Schwarcz will provide detailed pre-treatment guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome.
PLANNING
Tear duct repair may not be suitable for individuals who:
Have mild, occasional tearing that does not interfere with daily life.
Have an active eye infection that requires treatment before surgery.
Are not medically cleared for surgical intervention.
During your consultation, Dr. Schwarcz will evaluate your symptoms and customize a treatment plan that aligns with your needs.
NOT CANDIDATES
You may be an excellent candidate for tear duct repair if you:
Experience persistent watery eyes (epiphora) or excessive tearing.
Have a partial or complete tear duct blockage.
Suffer from recurrent eye infections due to poor tear drainage.
Are in good overall health and able to undergo treatment.
A consultation with Dr. Schwarcz will help determine if a non-surgical or surgical approach is best for your condition.
CANDIDATES
Tear duct repair addresses blocked or dysfunctional tear ducts that prevent proper drainage of tears from the eyes. When the tear ducts are obstructed, excess tears accumulate, leading to constant tearing, irritation, and even infections.
Treatment options include:
Non-Surgical Tear Duct Flushing (Lacrimal Probing & Irrigation): A quick, in-office procedure that clears minor blockages using a saline flush.
Surgical Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR): Creates a new tear drainage pathway for cases with severe or persistent blockages.
Tear Duct Stenting: A minimally invasive option that inserts a small stent to keep the tear duct open.
Dr. Schwarcz determines the best approach based on the severity of the obstruction and each patient’s needs.
THE PROCEDURE
Tear duct repair is a specialized procedure designed to restore proper tear drainage and alleviate excessive tearing (epiphora) caused by blocked or damaged tear ducts. Depending on the severity of the obstruction, treatment may involve a non-surgical tear duct flushing or a surgical procedure to create a new drainage pathway. Performed by Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in NYC, tear duct repair ensures clear, comfortable eyes while preserving natural function and appearance.
If you’re struggling with persistent watery eyes, recurrent infections, or tear duct blockages, Dr. Schwarcz offers both surgical and non-surgical solutions to restore optimal eye health.