These plugs are made of materials such as collagen that gradually break down over time. They typically last from a few days to several months. Temporary plugs are often used after procedures like LASIK or when our dry eye doctors want to test whether occluding the tear ducts will relieve your symptoms.

Made from silicone or other durable medical plastics, these plugs are designed to stay in place for a longer duration. They are ideal for chronic dry eye cases and are less likely to be dislodged. In some cases, they need to be removed only if complications arise or if your symptoms change significantly.

Besides these, there are variations where plugs are inserted into a deeper section of the tear drainage system called the canaliculus. Though these tend to be less visible and have a lower risk of extrusion, they might be more challenging to remove if necessary.

Tear ducts play an important role in maintaining the health and comfort of your eyes. When your tear ducts drain too quickly, the tear film evaporates before it can properly lubricate your eyes, potentially leading to dry eye syndrome. Conversely, if the drainage system is blocked, water can accumulate and cause excessive tearing, a condition known as epiphora.. By partially or fully occluding the tear ducts, they help preserve the natural moisture of the eyes, reducing dryness and, in other cases, regulating tear flow to prevent over-watering. This dual function makes them a valuable option for many patients who have struggled with maintaining the right balance in tear production and retention.

Our eye doctors will assess your particular condition during a comprehensive eye examination. By evaluating your tear film, ocular surface, and overall eye health, they determine if punctal plugs are the best solution. For many patients, this simple in-office procedure brings much-needed relief and improves the quality of vision and comfort.

Here’s the thing—one of the best aspects of punctal plugs is that the procedure is both quick and minimally invasive. Let’s walk through what you can expect if you decide to go ahead with the treatment.

Before the procedure begins, our dry eye doctors will perform an in-depth evaluation of your tear ducts to determine the right size and type of plug. They use a small instrument called a punctal gauge to measure your tear duct openings, ensuring that the chosen plug fits snugly and works effectively.

Our eye doctors will During the insertion process, a local anesthetic (usually in the form of numbing eye drops) may be applied to minimize any discomfort. With the area numbed, the plug is gently inserted into the punctum using specialized forceps or a preloaded inserter tool. Most patients report feeling only a slight pressure, and many experience immediate relief from dry eye symptoms once the plugs are in place.your particular condition during a comprehensive eye examination. By evaluating your tear film, ocular surface, and overall eye health, they determine if punctal plugs are the best solution. For many patients, this simple in-office procedure brings much-needed relief and improves the quality of vision and comfort.

If your plugs are inserted in the lower eyelids only or in both upper and lower lids, the specific approach will depend on your individual condition and the severity of your symptoms. Because the plugs are extremely small—about the size of a grain of rice—you often won’t even notice them after the procedure is complete.

Most patients report that after a brief adjustment period, they barely notice the plugs are there. The tiny size and design allow them to sit comfortably in place without causing an uncomfortable foreign body sensation.

Many people experience relief within hours of the procedure, though it might take a few days to a week to see the full benefit. The exact timing depends on the individual and the severity of your dry eye symptoms.

Yes, you can continue using lubricating eye drops if needed. In fact, many patients find that after the insertion of punctal plugs, they are able to reduce their reliance on artificial tears as their natural tear film becomes more stable and effective.

The duration varies with the type of plug used. Temporary collagen plugs may dissolve within a few days to several weeks, while silicone plugs are designed to last for months or even years. Our dry eye doctors will help determine the best option for your condition.

If your plugs are Patients with active infections, severe inflammatory conditions of the eyelids, or sensitivity to the materials used in plugs may not be ideal candidates. Our dry eye doctors will thoroughly assess your medical history and current eye health to determine if punctal plugs are the right choice for you.in the lower eyelids only or in both upper and lower lids, the specific approach will depend on your individual condition and the severity of your symptoms. Because the plugs are extremely small—about the size of a grain of rice—you often won’t even notice them after the procedure is complete.