Involuntary Tearing
Epiphora — Stop tearing without reason
Involuntary tearing or epiphora is a condition in which the eyes tear excessively and constantly, even without emotional cause. It may be due to obstruction of the tear duct, eyelid problems, or issues with the natural drainage of the eye. Dr. Fernando Martínez Solís has extensive experience diagnosing the exact cause of your tearing and offering the most appropriate treatment, from minimally invasive procedures to surgery when necessary.
When might you need this procedure?
- Your eyes tear constantly, especially in the wind or cold
- You have crusting or sticky discharge in your eyes in the morning
- You feel swelling or pain in the inner corner of your eye
- You have had recurrent eye infections
- Tearing interferes with your daily life or causes social discomfort
How is the procedure done?
Precise diagnosis
The doctor performs a complete examination of the tear system: evaluating the puncta, lacrimal sac, and nasolacrimal duct to identify where the obstruction or problem is.
Treatment plan
Depending on the cause, treatment may be medical, with dilation procedures in the office, or surgical (dacryocystorhinostomy) if there is complete obstruction.
Surgical procedure (if applicable)
A new lacrimal drainage pathway is created between the lacrimal sac and the nose. Endoscopic or external technique, depending on each case.
Follow-up
Follow-up appointments to verify the patency of the new duct and ensure the tearing has resolved.
Recovery and aftercare
Depends on the type of procedure. Office treatments have immediate recovery. Surgery requires 1–2 weeks of care. The success rate is very high when the correct cause is diagnosed and treated.