How long does DCR surgery take?
A DCR is a type of surgery that is used to treat blocked tear ducts in adults. It creates a new passageway between the tear duct sac and the nose, bypassing the blockage and allowing tears to drain normally again. The operation usually takes about 1 hour.
What is external DCR?
Dacryocystorhinostomy or DCR is one of the most common oculoplastics surgery performed. It is a bypass procedure that creates an anastomosis between the lacrimal sac and the nasal mucosa via a bony ostium. It may be performed through an external skin incision or intranasally with or without endoscopic visualization.
How is DCR surgery done?
DCR Through the Skin (External Procedure) The surgeon makes a small incision in the skin, in the area under your eye and next to your nose. Through this incision, your surgeon creates a small opening in the bone beneath. This opening then connects your lacrimal sac and your nasal cavity.
How long is recovery from DCR surgery?
How long is the recovery from DCR surgery? It is normal to have watery eyes until the swelling and inflammation settles, which may take around two weeks. Swelling and bruising can involve eyes, nose and cheek and may take two to three weeks to resolve.
What should be avoided after DCR surgery?
After a DCR procedure we generally advise patients not to fly for 2 − 3 weeks, to avoid hot drinks for 36 hours, and not to blow their nose for 2 weeks. Patients should not undertake strenuous exercise for at least ten days, and should try to sleep with their head elevated on an extra pillow if possible.
How long does stent stay in after DCR?
This will stay in place for 3-6 months after surgery. It will not affect the eye or nose. normal. Once the stent is removed the tearing should resolve.
What can you not do after DCR surgery?
You may sniff back gently to clear your nose. Nasal irrigations can also help clear mucous. No strenuous activity for one week after surgery. This includes bending over to pick things up (OK to bend at the knees, with your head up), straining, or lifting more than 20 lbs.
What should I do after DCR surgery?
After your operation, have a quiet evening and avoid strenuous exercise, running or heavy lifting (>5kg) for a week. You cannot drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or take sedative drugs for 24 hours. You can wash and shower normally but avoid a very hot shower/bath in the first week. Do not swim for two weeks.
How do you remove a DCR tube?
The tube is simply removed externally by grasping it at the medial canthus with non-toothed forceps and firmly pulling laterally in a single movement (Figure 1c). This obviates the need of any intranasal manipulation or tube cutting. The short sleeve segment rests within the nose before finding its own way out.
How long does it take for tear duct surgery to heal?
Most patients, if they want to get up and go, take 48 hours off work, and the majority will take off 7 to 10 days. I do not know anyone who takes any longer than that.
Is tear duct surgery painful?
Tear Duct Probing This is a pain-free procedure and, most of the time, undoes the blockage. For a few hours after tear duct probing, some children have blood-colored fluid drain from the eye. Using antibiotic eye drops or ointment a few times a day for about a week can help prevent an infection.