Lacrimal (Tear Duct) Surgery with Mr Steve Hayes
Watery eyes, constant tearing, or repeated eye infections can be more than just irritating—they may be signs of a problem with the tear drainage system. This is often due to a blockage in the lacrimal (tear) ducts, which normally allow tears to drain smoothly from the eye into the nose.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we are proud to work with Mr Steve Hayes, a highly experienced consultant ENT surgeon who specialises in lacrimal surgery.
What is Lacrimal Surgery?
Lacrimal surgery aims to restore normal tear drainage and relieve symptoms of watery, sticky eyes. There are several approaches, depending on the type and level of blockage:
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) – The most common procedure, creating a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nose. This can be performed externally or, more often now, endoscopically through the nose with no external scar.
Probing and Stenting – Used for partial blockages or in children, a fine instrument is passed through the tear duct to open the passage, sometimes leaving a soft stent to keep it open during healing.
Endoscopic Approaches – Minimally invasive surgery using a camera inside the nose, often performed in combination with ENT expertise for the best results.
Symptoms That May Require Lacrimal Surgery
Persistent watery eyes (epiphora)
Recurrent eye infections
Mucus or discharge from the eye
Swelling at the inner corner of the eyelids
Why Choose Mr Steve Hayes at Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Specialist Expertise – Mr Hayes is trained in ENT surgery, uniquely qualified to manage disorders at the junction of the eye and nose.
Modern Techniques – He regularly performs endoscopic DCR, avoiding external scars and ensuring rapid recovery.
Multidisciplinary Care – Working closely with ENT and ophthalmology colleagues, he ensures patients receive seamless, comprehensive treatment.
Patient-Centred Approach – From initial assessment to surgery and follow-up, care is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Take the Next Step
If you are troubled by watery eyes or recurrent infections, expert help is available.
Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to book an appointment with Mr Steve Hayes and learn more about your treatment options for lacrimal disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Lacrimal (Tear Duct) Surgery at Hampshire ENT Clinics
What causes watery eyes (epiphora)?
Watery eyes are most commonly caused by a blockage in the tear drainage system. Tears are produced normally but cannot drain into the nose, so they overflow onto the face. This may also lead to recurrent infections of the tear sac.
What are the lacrimal (tear) ducts?
The lacrimal ducts are small channels that drain tears from the eye into the nose. Blockage can occur at different points along this system, including the tear sac (dacryocystitis) or the nasolacrimal duct.
When is lacrimal surgery recommended?
Surgery may be advised if you have:
Persistent watery eyes despite conservative treatment
Recurrent eye infections or discharge
Swelling or pain at the inner corner of the eye
A confirmed tear duct blockage on assessment
What is Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)?
DCR is the most common lacrimal operation. It creates a new drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nose, bypassing the blocked duct.
Endoscopic DCR is performed through the nose using a camera, leaving no external scar
External DCR involves a small skin incision (used less commonly today)
What is probing and stenting?
For partial blockages or in children, a fine probe may be passed through the tear duct to open it. A soft silicone stent is sometimes left in place temporarily to keep the passage open while healing occurs.
Is lacrimal surgery painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic, and post-operative pain is typically mild and well controlled with simple pain relief.
How long is recovery after lacrimal surgery?
Recovery is generally quick. Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks. Watery eye symptoms often improve rapidly once the new drainage pathway is functioning.
What are the risks of lacrimal surgery?
Lacrimal surgery is very safe when performed by an experienced specialist. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, scarring (rare with endoscopic techniques), or recurrence of blockage. These will be discussed in detail during consultation.
Who performs lacrimal surgery at Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Lacrimal surgery is performed by Mr Steve Hayes, a consultant ENT and lacrimal surgeon with specialist expertise in tear duct surgery and advanced endoscopic techniques.
Why choose Hampshire ENT Clinics for lacrimal surgery?
Patients choose Hampshire ENT Clinics because we offer:
Specialist lacrimal surgical expertise
Modern endoscopic (scar-free) DCR techniques
Close collaboration between ENT and ophthalmology
Individualised, patient-centred care with clear follow-up
When should I seek specialist assessment?
You should seek specialist advice if watery eyes are persistent, one-sided, associated with infection or swelling, or affecting your daily life. Early assessment helps prevent repeated infections and long-term discomfort.
👉 If watery eyes or recurrent eye infections are troubling you, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today to arrange an appointment with Mr Steve Hayes and discuss your lacrimal treatment options.