Is surgery required for a blocked nasolacrimal duct?

Q: Syringing was done in my right eye (lower) nasolacrimal duct. The upper one in the same eye is also closed. Doctor suggested operation technique. Is it safe and does it have any side effects? I feel accumulation of water in the same. Will I have the same problem again?

A:It seems that you have a blockage of the nasolacrimal duct, which may have been partial as it was opened by syringing. Repeat syringing can be done, but one needs to rule out any nasal defect like swollen inferior turbinate in the nose. Get an ENT specialist consultation done, then steam inhalation and nasal decongestants can help. Otherwise DCR (dacryocystorhinostomy) a surgery in which an alternative opening is made through the nasal bones.