How Long Do Punctal Plugs Take to Work?

Punctal plugs can significantly reduce dry eye symptoms and improve your vision. However, the timeframe for punctal plug efficacy depends on several factors. Understanding punctal plugs and how long they take to work is vital for ensuring you get long-lasting dry eye relief. Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates in Columbia, SC, is here to tell you about punctal plugs and how long they take to work.

What Are Punctal Plugs?

Punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into your tear ducts. These devices block drainage into the tear ducts to alleviate dry eye symptoms. Punctal plugs help artificial and natural tears keep the eyes moist for extended periods. Your optometrist can provide temporary or permanent punctal plugs based on the severity of your dry eye and your preferences.

The Procedure for Punctal Plugs

The insertion process typically takes around 10 minutes or less for the optometrist to perform. Your optometrist will begin by applying numbing drops to your eye. Doing this helps minimize discomfort during the procedure. Your optometrist will insert a dilator to widen the tear duct and put the punctal plug in place.

Patients may experience minor pain for a day or two after the procedure. Contact your eye clinic near me if you have blurry vision, eye redness, or watery eyes. These could indicate an allergic reaction or infection due to the procedure.

How Long Until Results Are Noticeable?

Some patients see noticeable results within a week after the procedure, while others may take a month before seeing improvement in their dry eye symptoms. How long it takes punctal plugs to work depends on the severity of the condition. For minor cases of dry eye, your optometrist will use temporary plugs that dissolve within a few days after insertion. Permanent punctal plugs may be necessary for severe instances of dry eye. Talk with your optometrist to determine which plugs best suit your visual needs and preferences.

Visit Your Eye Clinic at Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates for Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye symptoms can be frustrating and significantly impact your ability to work effectively or enjoy daily activities, so contact Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates in Columbia, SC, to get the dry eye treatment necessary to feel like yourself again. Call us and schedule an appointment today at (803) 254-6306 if you are searching for an eye clinic near me for long-lasting dry eye treatment.