The lacrimal puncta — the tiny openings at the inner edge of the eyelids — can narrow with age, chronic inflammation or certain long-term eye drops: tears no longer drain, and the eye waters even though the deep pathways are open.
The signs
Clear, chronic watering, without infection or swelling. The diagnosis is made simply at the slit lamp, by examining the calibre of the puncta.
The treatment
Punctoplasty widens the narrowed punctum: a quick procedure performed under local anaesthesia. Temporary intubation with a fine silicone stent is sometimes combined to keep the opening patent.
Looking for associated causes
Blepharitis, eyelid malposition (ectropion) or long-term irritating eye drops can maintain the stenosis: managing them is part of the treatment.
Book an appointment
Consultations in Boulogne-Billancourt (Ophtalife) and Saint-Maur-des-Fossés (Beaurepaire).