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Avatar universal

4th operation epiphora

hey Guys,
I've started noticing watery eyes 21 months ago, after scaring from a previous small nasal passage surgery done by an ent to correct a slightly one-sided opening. Since then, I've seen multiple Ophthalmologists who have diagnosed me with blocked tear ducts. I've had 3 failed endoscopic dcr operations, first on my left side, then on both eyes, then on my left again, with 2-3 months between stint placement and removal. Now I am on 4th on my right side, and fear that my left might be blocking back up again... One of the Opthalmologists didn't know why I kept on blocking up and actually refused to see me anymore. I'm a young guy and really don't feel like dragging this out, and am out of options at this point. Can anybody kindly list possible actions that I can take? Are there any quick operations that I can take at an ent office? Are there permanent effects to using any steroid or any topical creams? Thanks so much.
3 Responses
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1731421 tn?1358823371
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi Kevin,
Have you been evaluated by an ophthalmologist who specializes in Oculplastics? This may be your best bet or get a second opinion.
Steroids around the eyes will eventually cause problems like high eye pressure and/or cataract. You should be aware of these side effects.
A Jones tube is another option, but not as small or discrete as DCR, especially endoscopic DCR. Was mitomycin used?
Sincerely,
Timothy D. McGarity, Medical Doctor, Ophthalmologist
Helpful - 1
Avatar universal
Is there any way to possible subdue my lacrimal gland to produce less tears? How do people cure hyperlacrimatation? I can't find any good pictures of patients with the Jones tube in place, to see how visible it is, I don't know if this is a good or a bad thing.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thanks Tim,
Yes they were Ocuplastic surgeons. Mitomycin was used the last time, so far haven't been able to test it out as the stint is still in. I have been told by the surgeons that this made no difference for them in previous tests but guess that would make it not hurt to try. Guess time will tell. Is the Jones tube the only option? Would there be any risks/side affects associated with wearing the Jones tube? How long would a Jones tube need to be in place for and what is its success rate? How bad is tearing with the Jones tube in place? Would this change the structure of the face at all/leave permanent scars?
Helpful - 0

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