Post Operative Instructions For Tear Duct Surgery

The tear sac the inner corner of the eye has been opened into the nose by removing an area of bone.  A silicone tube sits in the tear duct, with the end in the nose.  A pad is over the eye and should remain in place until tomorrow.  You may experience some pain as the local anaesthetic wears off.  Please take Panadol, Panadeine or Panadeine Forte.  Please take your other medications as usual.

When the eye pad is removed, there will be some blood and ointment in the eye.  After washing your hands, the eye can be gently cleaned with cool boiled water or saline.  Place the antibiotic drops or ointment in the eye, and nasal spray to the nose.  To minimise the risk of bleeding: avoid blowing your nose, hot drinks and aspirin like medicines.  Do not lift heavy things, garden, play sport, or wet your face swimming for 2 weeks

You will be asked to make a post operative appointment a week later.  Sutures will be removed at this time.  The swelling and bruising is significantly better by 2 weeks and continues to improve over time.  Massage to the wound is helpful, and should commence 2 weeks after surgery.

If the nose bleeds, use nasal drops, sit up, apply an ice pack and notify the doctor.  As bleeding may represent infection, antibiotics may be required.  If bleeding continues, contact you doctor or attend hospital.

If you have persistent pain or sudden change in your vision, report this to the doctor immediately via the Surgery, the Hospital or the Sydney Eye Hospital.

If you have concerns or questions, please call.