Dry eye syndrome can be a daily annoyance, but there's a simple solution at Southern Eyecare Associates in Norfolk — punctal plugs. Discover how punctal plugs can transform your life.
Understanding Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs, sometimes called tear duct plugs, are minuscule devices inserted into the tiny openings in your eyes known as puncta. They can also be placed deeper within the canaliculus, the next level of the tear duct. The primary role of these plugs is to slow down or block the drainage of tears from your eyes. Doing so ensures that your eyes stay moist, reducing the irritation caused by dryness.
The Two Types of Punctal Plugs
Temporary/Dissolving Plugs
These plugs, often made of materials like collagen, slowly dissolve inside the body and can provide relief for a few days to several months. They are commonly used to keep the eye moist after surgeries like LASIK and to test if punctal plugs can help with dry eye.
Semi-Permanent Plugs
These plugs, usually made from medical-grade materials like silicone or acrylic, provide long-lasting relief that can extend for years. They can be taken out by your eye doctor if needed. Some can be inserted deeper into the tear duct, making them invisible in the eye.
How Punctal Plugs Are Inserted
Your eye doctor will assess your eyes to determine the most suitable type and size of punctal plug for your unique needs. While numbing the tear ducts may be necessary in some cases, most patients only feel slight pressure during the quick insertion procedure. Following the insertion, you can immediately resume your daily activities.
Removing Punctal Plugs
The method and timing of punctal plug removal depend on their type and placement. Silicon plugs from the tear ducts can be gently extracted using forceps or flushed out with a saltwater solution. Deeper canaliculus plugs typically require a simple surgical procedure for removal. Contact our eye doctor for assistance if you experience unusual symptoms or discomfort.
Time To Turn To Punctal Plugs?
If traditional eye drops or artificial tears have failed to provide the relief you need from dry eye symptoms, it's time to consider punctal plugs. Consult our experts at The Dry Eye Center of Southern Eyecare Associates to determine if punctal plugs are the solution you've been searching for.Request an Appointment for Dry Eye Relief Today.
