Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery

What is DCR surgery?

Dacryocystorhinostomy (often shortened to DCR) is a surgical procedure that helps tears drain from your eye to your nasal cavity.

It’s typically recommended when the nasolacrimal duct (the tear duct) is blocked and less invasive treatments haven’t helped.

During the procedure, your surgeon creates a new opening between the tear sac and the inside of your nose, allowing tears to bypass the blocked duct and drain naturally.

Is Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery right for me?

A blocked tear duct can affect people of any age, although it’s most common in adults and can lead to recurring discharge, irritation and discomfort.

DCR surgery is usually recommended when:

• Non-surgical treatments haven’t helped
• Symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

You might be a good candidate for DCR surgery if you have:

• Excessive tearing (epiphora)
• Recurring eye infections
• Sticky eye discharge or inflammation
• A blocked tear duct.

Get personalised advice from our Consultant eye specialists today and find out if this surgery is right for you.

What happens during Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery?

Preparing for DCR surgery

Your Nuffield Health consultant (surgeon) will carry out a detailed examination and review your medical history before deciding if Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery is suitable for you.

During the operation

DCR surgery is usually done under a general anaesthetic, although in some cases a local anaesthetic may be used.

There are two main procedures:

External DCR

• A small incision is made on the side of the nose near the tear sac
• A tiny piece of bone is removed between the tear sac and the nose
• A new channel is created, and a small silicone tube (stent) may be placed to keep it open while healing
• The incision is closed with fine stitches, which are typically removed after a week.

Endoscopic (endonasal) DCR

• Performed through the inside of the nose using a small endoscope (a thin, flexible tube)
• Does not leave a visible scar
• A stent may also be placed to support the new drainage pathway.

What to expect after Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery?

Recovery from DCR varies from person to person, but common expectations include:

• Some swelling and bruising around the eye that usually settles within two weeks
• Temporary nosebleeds or mild discharge
• Stitches removed after 7–10 days (for external DCR)
• Silicone stent removal is usually around 6–8 weeks after surgery.

Most people can return to their usual daily activities within a few days.

Your consultant will provide you with clear guidance on pain management, wound care, and gradually returning to normal activities in the days and weeks that follow.

What are the benefits of Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery?

• Relieve excessive tearing
• Reduce infections and discharge
• Improve comfort and quality of life
• Restore more natural tear drainage function.

Success rates are generally high, with many people experiencing long-term symptom relief.

What are the risks and complications of Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery?

Most people recover well after DCR surgery. However, like any surgery, it carries risks.

Before your surgery, your consultant (surgeon) will talk you through these risks, answer any questions, and help you feel more confident going into surgery.

Some risks to be aware of:

• Infection or bleeding
• Scarring or blockage of the new drainage channel
• Temporary swelling or bruising
• Rarely, issues related to the stent, such as irritation or displacement
• Very rarely, more serious complications such as excessive bleeding.