Also known as tear duct plugs, punctal plugs, are small surgically installed devices designed to treat dry eye. They block the drainage of tears from your eye and down through your nose. This solution ensures your eye retains more moisture, preventing dryness.

Punctal plugs are generally used as a last resort when eye drops have been insufficient, but aren’t for everyone. Your doctor can determine if punctal plugs are an option with an eye assessment and a review of your medical history.

Once your doctor has determined punctal plugs are a viable solution, they’ll review and select the type of plug best suited for your needs. There are three main types of punctal plugs; Collagen, Silicone and Intracanalicular.

Collagen plugs are only temporary; designed to dissolve after a period of time. Mainly used for patients experiencing dry-eye after recovering from LASIK surgery, they can also be used to determine if plugs will solve the problem before installing a more permanent type.

Silicone plugs are often used as a long term dry eye solution. Once installed, the tip of the plug will be slightly visible on your eyelid. Silicone plugs are the most common type of punctal plugs due to the ease of installation and removal.

Intracanalicular plugs last the longest and can act as a permanent solution to dry eye. They are installed deeper in the tear duct canal, and require surgery to be removed.

The installations of punctal plugs is simple and commonly performed in office. Some doctors may choose to apply a local anesthesia or to dilate the tear duct. One the tear duct is numb, your doctor will place the plug with forceps.

Punctal plugs can be beneficial to many with dry eye. The most common side effect is watery or teary eyes, which results from the plug blocking the drainage too well. Your doctor may choose to remove the plug or replace it with a smaller one if this happens. Either way, most plugs are smaller than a grain of rice.

Wondering if punctal plugs can help alleviate your dry eye symptoms? Schedule your appointment today at Vision Quest Medical Center to speak with a member of our staff.