Constant tearing (epiphora)
The main symptom is persistent tearing that overflows the eyelid. Tears, unable to drain through their natural pathway, accumulate and flow down the cheek continuously, causing discomfort and intermittent blurred vision.
Lacrimal Duct Surgery in Málaga
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a surgical procedure that resolves nasolacrimal duct obstruction, eliminating constant tearing and recurrent infections. Dr. Fátima Fanjul performs this surgery using an endoscopic endonasal technique, without visible scars, in Málaga, Marbella and the Costa del Sol.
As an ENT specialist in rhinology, Dr. Fanjul masters the endoscopic endonasal approach, allowing DCR to be performed through the nose without the need for external skin incisions. This technique offers excellent results with a faster and more comfortable recovery for the patient.
Symptoms of lacrimal obstruction
Nasolacrimal duct obstruction prevents the normal drainage of tears from the eye into the nose. This produces a series of characteristic symptoms that can significantly affect quality of life:
Recurrent infections (dacryocystitis)
Obstruction promotes secretion buildup in the lacrimal sac, causing repeated infections (dacryocystitis). These present with swelling, redness and pain near the tear duct area, along with purulent discharge.
Mucous or purulent discharge
The presence of mucus or pus refluxing through the lacrimal punctum when pressing the lacrimal sac area is a typical sign of obstruction. It may appear spontaneously or when pressing the inner corner of the eye.
Lacrimal sac swelling
Swelling may be observed at the inner corner of the eye, corresponding to the dilated lacrimal sac. This swelling may be intermittent or permanent, and tends to worsen with infections.
How is endoscopic DCR performed?
Endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy is Dr. Fanjul's technique of choice. Unlike the traditional external approach, which requires a skin incision beside the nose, endoscopic DCR is performed entirely through the nasal cavity, guided by high-definition endoscope.
During the procedure, a new communication channel is created between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity, allowing direct tear drainage. The bone and mucosa obstructing the lacrimal pathway are removed and, in some cases, a temporary silicone stent is placed to keep the new channel open during healing.
The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia or sedation, lasts approximately 30-60 minutes and typically does not require hospital admission. The patient can return home the same day.
Advantages of endoscopic DCR
No visible scars
Performed via the endonasal route, there are no external skin incisions. No visible scar remains on the face, unlike the traditional external technique.
Fast recovery
Most patients resume normal activities within 3-7 days. Postoperative discomfort is minimal, with mild nasal congestion during the first few days.
High success rate
Endoscopic DCR has a success rate exceeding 90% in resolving tearing and lacrimal infections. Results are long-lasting.
Outpatient surgery
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in most cases. The patient returns home on the same day of surgery, without hospital admission.
Recovery after DCR
Recovery after endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is generally fast and well tolerated. During the first 2-3 days there may be slight nasal congestion and minimal nasal bleeding, which resolve spontaneously. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment is prescribed, along with nasal rinses.
If a silicone stent has been placed, it is removed in the clinic at 4-8 weeks after surgery, a simple and painless procedure. Postoperative check-ups are carried out to verify the patency of the new drainage channel and ensure complete symptom resolution. Most patients experience significant relief from tearing within the first few weeks.
Do you suffer from constant tearing or lacrimal infections?
Request a consultation with Dr. Fátima Fanjul for a personalised assessment. We see patients in Málaga, Marbella, Estepona and Manilva.
Frequently asked questions about lacrimal surgery
What is dacryocystorhinostomy?
It is a surgery that creates a new tear drainage channel when the nasolacrimal duct is blocked, eliminating constant tearing and recurrent infections.
What are the symptoms of lacrimal obstruction?
Constant tearing (epiphora), recurrent lacrimal sac infections (dacryocystitis), mucous or purulent eye discharge, swelling near the tear duct area.
How is the surgery performed?
Dr. Fanjul performs DCR via endoscopic endonasal approach, without external incisions. It is a minimally invasive technique that leaves no visible scars.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery is fast. Most patients resume normal activities within 3-7 days. Postoperative check-ups ensure the new channel remains patent.
Does endoscopic DCR leave scars?
No. Performed entirely through the nose, there are no external incisions or visible facial scars.
What is the success rate of DCR?
Endoscopic DCR has a success rate exceeding 90%. It is the definitive treatment for nasolacrimal duct obstruction.