Lacrimal duct surgery in Valencia

DR. SONIA PEÑARROCHA

Specialised treatment for obstructions and

alterations in the lacrimal system.

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Tears play a fundamental role in protecting and lubricating the eyes. Naturally, they drain into the nose through the tear duct system. However, when this system becomes blocked or does not function properly, tears cannot be properly drained, leading to constant tearing, eye irritation, recurrent infections, or discomfort in daily life.

Beyond physical discomfort, constant tearing can affect quality of life and personal confidence. Many people experience persistent irritation around the eyes, difficulty applying makeup, or the need to constantly wipe away tears, which impacts their daily well-being.

As an ophthalmologist specialised in lacrimal duct surgery in Valencia, my goal is to help you regain ocular comfort and restore the proper function of the lacrimal system through an accurate diagnostic approach and personalized treatment.

cirugia de vias lagrimales en valencia dra sonia penarrocha

What does lacrimal duct surgery involve?

The lacrimal system is responsible for draining tears from the eye into the nose. When the tear duct becomes blocked, tears cannot drain properly and symptoms such as constant tearing, recurrent infections, or bothersome discharge may occur.

 

Tear duct surgery aims to restore this natural drainage. The most common procedure is dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), in which a new connection is created between the eye and the nose, allowing tears to flow normally again.

 

It is a safe and highly effective surgery that significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.

Dacryocystorhinostomy: how the surgery is performed

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the most commonly performed surgery to treat tear duct obstruction. The aim of the procedure is to create a new connection between the lacrimal sac and the nose in order to restore normal tear drainage and eliminate constant tearing.

 

There are different surgical techniques, and the choice of approach depends on each patient’s anatomical characteristics, the type of obstruction, and any previous medical history. The goal is always to achieve the best functional outcome with the least possible aesthetic impact.

 

These are the two types of tear duct surgeries that I perform:

External DCR

External dacryocystorhinostomy is performed through a small skin incision, strategically placed within the natural crease next to the eye so that the scar becomes practically imperceptible over time.

 

This approach allows excellent anatomical visualization of the lacrimal system and offers a high success rate, especially in complex cases or in patients who have undergone previous surgery.

Endonasal DCR

Endonasal tear duct surgery is performed from inside the nose using endoscopic techniques, avoiding any external skin incisions.

 

This technique allows treatment of tear duct obstruction without visible scars and is usually associated with a quick recovery. The choice of this approach depends on each patient’s anatomical characteristics and the type of obstruction.

Postoperative period after tear duct surgery

The postoperative period after tear duct surgery is usually well tolerated, and most patients return to their usual activities within a few days.

However, there are some aspects to keep in mind:

  • In the first few days, it is normal to experience mild swelling, slight nasal bleeding, or a feeling of congestion.
  • In the case of external dacryocystorhinostomy, a small bruise may appear around the incision area.
  • It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities during the first two weeks.
  • Small silicone tubes are often placed in the tear duct to keep it open during the healing process; these are later removed in the clinic in a simple procedure.
  • Postoperative follow-up is essential to ensure proper healing and to optimize long-term results.

Why choose me for your lagrimal duct surgery in Valencia?

Advanced technology

Personalized care

Extensive training

I use state-of-the-art equipment that enables highly accurate diagnoses and efficient treatments tailored to my patients’ needs

Every patient is unique. I take the time needed to listen, carefully evaluate your case, and explain every step of the process, fully tailored to you

Extensive training in oculoplastics in both Spain and the United Kingdom, including a two-year fellowship at the prestigious Moorfields Eye Hospital

Do you have any doubts?

I am here to help you. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

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Frequently asked questions about lacrimal duct surgery

What is tear duct surgery?

The aim of the surgery is to treat the blockage and create a new pathway for tears to drain properly into the nose. This helps improve excessive tearing and reduces the risk of infections.

If excessive tearing is caused by a blockage in the tear duct system, the surgical technique will depend on the level of the obstruction. If the problem affects the entrance of the duct, a minor procedure called a “punctoplasty” can be performed. If the obstruction is located further down the drainage system, a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) may be required.

It is a surgical procedure in which a new channel is created between the lacrimal sac and the nose to allow tears to drain properly. It can be performed through a small skin incision near the eye or through the nose using an endoscope.

Tear duct surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, so the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, discomfort is generally mild and can be easily controlled with common painkillers.

It usually lasts around one hour, but you will need to stay in the hospital for a few more hours until you have fully recovered from the general anesthesia.​

Like any surgery, it carries some risks, although they are uncommon. The risk of infection is low and is usually well managed with antibiotics. Mild bleeding after DCR is normal and expected, but in most cases it can be managed at home — we will explain how to do this. The success rate of the surgery is approximately 90%, but in some cases tearing may persist; if this happens, a secondary procedure can be considered.

Initial recovery is usually quick, and many patients can return to their usual activities within a few days. However, the complete healing process and final stabilization of the result may take several weeks.

Many patients experience improvement from the first few days after surgery, especially in tearing and associated discomfort. However, the final result is assessed once the healing process has been completed.

The success rate is high, but as with any procedure, there is a small percentage of cases in which a revision or additional surgery may be necessary.

With the endonasal approach, there is no visible scar. With the external approach, the incision is very small —approximately 1 cm— and is discreetly placed within the natural crease beneath the lower eyelid, so it generally becomes almost imperceptible within a few months after surgery.

The cost of tear duct surgery depends on several factors, such as the surgical technique used, the type of obstruction, and each patient’s specific needs. For this reason, every case requires a personalised assessment in order to determine the most appropriate treatment and provide an individualised estimate.

Request your appointment for lacrimal duct surgery in Valencia

Do you suffer from constant tearing or eye discomfort?

 

I am Sonia Peñarrocha, an ophthalmologist specializing in tear duct surgery in Valencia. I provide personalized evaluations to diagnose and treat tear duct obstruction and other functional disorders of the lacrimal system, always through a precise medical approach tailored to each patient.

 

If you would like to improve your eye comfort and regain your quality of life safely and effectively, contact me through the form and take the first step toward a personalized solution for your condition.