Watery Eye Treatment

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consult the under-eye experts

At The Ezra Clinic, we provide specialist assessment and treatment for persistent watery eyes, also known as epiphora. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause, whether excessive tearing is related to increased tear production, impaired drainage or another condition affecting the eyes or eyelids.

Key Information

PRICE

Call for more info

TIME OF PROCEDURE

60 – 90 min

DOWNTIME

1 – 2 weeks

DISCOMFORT LEVEL

3 out of 5

AVERAGE SESSION REQUIRED

1

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What Is Epiphora?

Epiphora is the medical term for excessive or persistent eye watering. It can occur when the eyes produce too many tears or when tears cannot drain away effectively.

Normally, tears lubricate and protect the surface of the eye before draining through small openings in the eyelids and into the tear drainage system and nose. When this balance between tear production and drainage is disrupted, tears can build up and overflow onto the cheeks.

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What Causes the Condition?

Several possible causes of epiphora exist. In some cases, conditions such as dry eye can trigger the eyes to produce extra tears as a reflex. Allergies, irritation and blepharitis can also increase tear production and lead to persistent watering.

In other cases, the problem lies with the tear drainage system itself. Narrowing or blockage can prevent tears from draining normally, while eyelid conditions such as ectropion or entropion can alter eyelid position and interfere with effective drainage.

Identifying the underlying cause is therefore an important part of determining the most appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Epiphora

The main symptom of epiphora is persistent or recurrent watering of one or both eyes. Other symptoms can include:

  • Tears overflowing onto the cheeks
  • Blurred or intermittently obscured vision
  • Irritation or soreness
  • Sticky or uncomfortable eyes
  • Irritation of the skin around the eyes

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How Is It Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with an examination of the eyes and eyelids, together with an assessment of tear production and the tear drainage system.

Your specialist may use a coloured dye to assess how effectively tears drain or syringe the tear ducts to check for narrowing or obstruction. In selected cases, further examination of the nasal passages or imaging may be recommended to investigate the drainage system in more detail.

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Watery Eye Treatment Options

Treatment for watery eyes depends on the cause of the excessive tearing. The aim is to address the underlying problem affecting tear production or drainage rather than simply managing the watering itself.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Watery Eyes

When watery eyes are caused by irritation or an ocular surface condition, non-surgical treatment may be sufficient. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include lubricating eye drops or artificial tears for dry eye, allergy treatment, or measures to manage blepharitis.

In selected cases, dilation or probing may be used where part of the tear drainage system has become narrowed. The appropriate treatment will depend on your specialist assessment.

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Watery Eye Surgery

Surgery may be recommended when persistent watery eyes are caused by a structural problem or obstruction within the tear drainage system.

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) creates a new drainage pathway between the tear drainage system and the nose, allowing tears to bypass an obstruction. It can be performed externally through a small incision or as an endoscopic DCR, where the drainage pathway is created through the nose without an external skin incision.

For patients with more complex tear drainage problems, a Lester Jones tube may be used to create an alternative route between the eye and the nasal cavity.

The most appropriate surgical approach depends on the location and nature of the drainage problem. Read our guide to DCR surgery for more information about the procedure and the different surgical approaches available.

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Watery Eye Surgery Recovery

Recovery varies according to the procedure performed. Some bruising, swelling and mild discomfort around the eye or nose are common during the early stages of healing.

Many patients can return home on the same day, depending on the procedure and their individual circumstances. Temporary restrictions on exercise and certain everyday activities may be recommended while the area heals, with follow-up appointments used to monitor your recovery.

The Ezra Clinic Approach to Watery Eye Treatment

Successful treatment of watery eyes begins with understanding why they are occurring. At The Ezra Clinic, our specialist expertise in oculoplastic and lacrimal conditions allows us to carefully assess the eyelids, ocular surface and tear drainage system before recommending treatment.

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may range from non-surgical management to specialist tear drainage surgery. Our surgeons have experience treating both straightforward and complex lacrimal disorders, and tailor every treatment plan to the patient’s individual anatomy and symptoms. If persistent watery eyes are affecting your comfort, vision or everyday life, book a consultation to discuss the most appropriate treatment options for you.

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FAQ

How much does watery eye treatment cost?

The cost depends on the underlying cause and the treatment required. Following your consultation, you will receive a personalised treatment plan and quotation.

Can watery eyes go away without treatment?

Temporary watering caused by minor irritation may resolve without treatment. Persistent or recurrent watery eyes, however, may require assessment to identify and treat the underlying cause.

When should I see a specialist about watery eyes?

Consider specialist assessment if your eyes water persistently, the symptoms interfere with your vision or daily activities, or you experience associated pain, irritation or discharge.

Is watery eye surgery painful?

Watery eye surgery is performed under appropriate anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. Mild discomfort or tenderness may occur during recovery and can usually be managed with suitable pain relief.

Does DCR surgery leave a scar?

External DCR requires a small skin incision and may leave a scar, although this generally becomes less noticeable over time. Endoscopic DCR is performed through the nose and does not require an external skin incision.

How long does watery eye surgery take?

The duration depends on the procedure performed. DCR surgery commonly takes around one to one and a half hours, although this can vary between patients.

Contact us

If you are interested in any of the treatments we offer, or require any further information, we would love to hear from you. We offer both online and face to face consultations, allowing us to accommodate your individual needs and preferences. You can reach us by phone, email or by completing the contact form below.

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