Tear Drain Surgery
A blocked tear duct causes constant tearing and can lead to painful infections. Dr. Shepler specializes in non-incisional endonasal DCR — a minimally invasive procedure that creates a new drainage pathway without an external scar.
Blocked Tear Ducts: Symptoms & Risks
Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)
When tears cannot drain normally, they pool in the eye and overflow down the cheek. Blurred vision, constant wiping, and skin irritation are common complaints.
Tear Sac Infections (Dacryocystitis)
Bacteria build up in the blocked sac — causing redness, swelling, pain, and discharge from the inner corner of the eye. Acute infections can be severe and require urgent care.
Dr. Shepler's Expertise in Lacrimal Surgery
Dr. Shepler has a special interest in tear drain blockages and has even designed new cutting-edge instruments to deliver more effective outcomes. He specializes in non-incisional (endonasal) DCR — approaching the blocked duct through the nose rather than through an external incision, leaving no visible scar.
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) — What to Expect
DCR creates a new drainage passage between the tear sac and the nasal cavity, bypassing the blocked nasolacrimal duct entirely. Dr. Shepler performs the endonasal (endoscopic) approach — working entirely through the nose with no external incisions.
The procedure is typically performed under general or local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Recovery is faster than traditional external DCR, with less bruising, no visible scar, and excellent long-term success rates.
- 1Pre-operative exam confirms diagnosis and blockage location
- 2Anesthesia administered (general or local with sedation)
- 3Endoscope introduced through the nostril
- 4New opening created between tear sac and nasal cavity
- 5Silicone tubes may be temporarily placed to keep the passage open
- 6Tubes removed in office 6–12 weeks later
Schedule a Tear Drain Evaluation
If you have constant tearing, recurrent eye infections, or swelling at the inner corner of your eye, a blocked tear duct may be the cause. Call us to find out if you're a candidate for tear drain surgery.