If you suffer from chronic dry eyes and haven’t gotten any relieve using most common forms of treatment such as moisturizing drops, your optometrist in Columbia might recommend punctal plugs for dry eyes. Also known as occluders, lacrimal plugs or punctum plugs, these implements are typically about the size of a rice grain. These tiny plugs are biocompatible devices that your eye doctor can insert into the tear ducts to block drainage, which increases moisture on the eye’s surface to relieve dryness.
Tear duct plugs are available in two primary types: dissolvable and semi-permanent. Dissolvable plugs are typically made of collagen that will eventually absorb into the body. These can last anywhere from a few days to several months, making them ideal for short term dry eye issues such as after LASIK procedures. Your optometrist in Columbia may recommend dissolvable punctal plugs to determine the efficacy of the procedure prior to inserting semi-permanent plugs. Semi-permanent plugs are made of silicone and offer a longer term of dry eye relief than dissolvable occluders. There are many shapes and designs of punctal plugs for dry eyes including:
Your optometrist in Columbia may opt to use a local anesthetic prior to inserting the plugs, but it’s not necessary in most cases. These plugs can be inserted within the puncta of the upper or lower lids or both. Depending on the type of plugs you’re having inserted, your doctor may use forceps, a syringe or other methods for insertion. Beyond minimal discomfort immediately after the procedure, you shouldn’t be able to feel the plugs and should be able to resume normal activities right away, including driving yourself home!
There’s no need to live with dry eyes that can make daily tasks challenging. If you’re seeking dry eye treatment, make Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates your optometrist in Columbia. Contact us today at 803-254-6306 today to schedule a consultation about punctal plugs for dry eye treatment.
1818 Hampton St
Columbia, SC 29201, US
7:30 am - 6:00 pm
7:30 am - 5:00 pm
7:30 am - 5:00 pm
7:30 am - 5:00 pm
7:30 am - 4:00 pm
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