Procedure

Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

27+experience
60,000+procedures
₹500consultation

Performed by Dr. Dasari Keerthi Kumar at Harsha Sai Eye Hospital

Dacryocystorhinostomy in Nizamabad is a surgical procedure that creates a new pathway for tears to drain from the eyes into the nose, bypassing a blocked tear duct. This surgery is performed when chronic tear duct obstruction causes excessive tearing, discharge, and recurrent eye infections. At Harsha Sai Eye Hospital, Dr D Keerthi Kumar provides expert surgical treatment using modern techniques to restore normal tear drainage and improve patient comfort.

Restores tear drainage Ends watery eyes Prevents eye infections
90-95%
Success Rate
60-90 min
Procedure Time
2-4 weeks
Recovery
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Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) at Harsha Sai Eye Hospital
At a Glance

Quick facts about this procedure.

Quick Facts
AnaesthesiaGeneral or local anaesthesia
Procedure Duration60-90 minutes
Hospital StayDay procedure or overnight
Return to Work2-4 weeks full recovery
Success Rate90-95% success rate with significant symptom relief
Candidacy

Who needs dacryocystorhinostomy (dcr)?

Dacryocystorhinostomy is recommended for patients with chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction causing persistent watery eyes, mucoid discharge, and recurrent dacryocystitis infections.
Ideal candidates include adults and children with complete tear duct blockage that hasn't responded to conservative treatments like antibiotics, warm compresses, or nasolacrimal duct probing.
Patients experiencing social embarrassment from constant tearing or those at risk of sight-threatening complications from chronic infection benefit significantly from this procedure.
Transparency

What you should know before this procedure.

We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.

Success Rate

  • 90-95% success rate with significant symptom relief

Possible Risks

  • Bleeding during or after surgery
  • Infection at surgical site
  • Scarring causing re-obstruction

Side Effects

  • Nasal congestion and discharge
  • Bruising around eyes and nose
  • Temporary vision blurriness from swelling
Procedure

How dacryocystorhinostomy (dcr) works.

A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.

1

Anaesthesia administration

The procedure begins with administering either general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on patient preference and medical condition. The surgical area around the eye and nose is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.

2

Creating nasal access

The surgeon makes a small incision either externally along the side of the nose or internally through the nasal cavity using endoscopic techniques. The lacrimal sac is carefully exposed by removing a small portion of the nasal bone.

3

Opening the lacrimal sac

The lacrimal sac, which collects tears from the eye, is opened and any obstructive tissue or stones are removed. The surgeon ensures the sac is healthy and viable for proper drainage connection.

4

Creating the bypass pathway

A new opening is created between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity, bypassing the blocked nasolacrimal duct. This artificial passage allows tears to drain directly from the eye into the nose, restoring normal tear flow.

5

Closure and tube placement

Silicone stents or tubes may be temporarily placed through the new pathway to keep it open during healing. The external incision, if made, is closed with fine sutures. Nasal packing may be placed to control bleeding and support healing.

Timelines

Duration & timelines.

Surgery day

Day 0

Initial healing and swelling peak

Days 1-3

Suture removal if external approach

Days 7-10

Return to light activities

Week 2

Silicone stent removal

6-12 weeks

Complete healing and full results

3-6 months

Our Approach

How we handle this procedure.

A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.

Step 01

Comprehensive pre-operative assessment

At Harsha Sai Eye Hospital, Dr D Keerthi Kumar conducts thorough examination including lacrimal syringing, probing, and dacryocystography to confirm diagnosis and plan the most appropriate surgical approach. We discuss expectations, answer all questions, and ensure patients are fully prepared.

Step 02

Advanced surgical techniques

Our ophthalmologist utilizes both external and endoscopic endonasal approaches based on individual patient anatomy and condition severity. We employ precise microsurgical instruments and modern techniques to maximize success rates while minimizing tissue trauma and scarring.

Step 03

Personalized post-operative care

Following surgery, we provide detailed instructions for wound care, medication usage, and activity restrictions. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing, remove silicone stents at the appropriate time, and ensure the new drainage pathway remains patent.

Step 04

Long-term monitoring and support

Harsha Sai Eye Hospital ensures continued patient support through scheduled check-ups to assess tear drainage function and address any concerns. We provide guidance on recognizing signs of complications and maintaining optimal eye health for lasting surgical success.

Recovery

Recovery & aftercare.

What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.

Immediate post-operative phaseEarly recovery phaseComplete healing phase

Immediate post-operative phase

The first 3-5 days involve swelling, bruising around the eye and nose, mild discomfort, and nasal congestion. Patients use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops, oral antibiotics, and pain medication. Cold compresses help reduce swelling. Nasal packing is typically removed within 24-48 hours. Rest is essential with head elevation to minimize swelling.

Early recovery phase

Weeks 1-2 show gradual reduction in swelling and bruising. Patients can resume light daily activities but must avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and nose blowing. Regular saline nasal irrigation keeps the surgical site clean. Follow-up visits monitor healing progress and drain functionality. Most people return to desk work after 7-10 days.

Complete healing phase

Weeks 3-12 involve continued improvement in tear drainage with resolution of excessive tearing. The silicone stents are removed after 6-12 weeks once the new pathway is stable. Patients gradually return to all normal activities including exercise. Complete healing occurs over 3-6 months with final cosmetic results and optimal tear drainage function established.

Outcomes

Success & outcomes.

Resolution of excessive tearing

The primary outcome is elimination of chronic epiphora (watery eyes) that previously interfered with daily activities, reading, and social interactions. Patients experience significantly improved quality of life with normal tear drainage function restored.

Prevention of recurrent infections

By establishing proper tear drainage, the surgery prevents recurrent dacryocystitis infections, chronic discharge, and the need for repeated antibiotic treatments. This reduces risk of more serious complications including orbital cellulitis or vision-threatening conditions.

Improved eye comfort

Patients report relief from irritation, matting of eyelashes, crusting, and constant need to wipe tears. The eyes feel more comfortable throughout the day with normal moisture balance maintained through proper drainage.

Minimal visible scarring

With endoscopic approaches, there is no visible external scarring. Even with external dacryocystorhinostomy, the small incision along the side of the nose heals with minimal scarring that fades significantly over time, resulting in excellent cosmetic outcomes.

Myths vs Facts

Common misconceptions.

Let's clear up some of the most common myths about dacryocystorhinostomy (dcr).

MythDacryocystorhinostomy is purely cosmetic surgery
MythThe blocked tear duct can resolve on its own without surgery
MythRecovery from dacryocystorhinostomy is extremely painful and prolonged

What happens if dacryocystorhinostomy (dcr) is delayed?

  • Without treatment, chronic nasolacrimal duct obstruction leads to persistent excessive tearing that interferes with daily activities, vision clarity, and quality of life. The stagnant tears create an ideal environment for bacterial growth, resulting in recurrent dacryocystitis infections with pain, swelling, and discharge. Repeated infections can spread to surrounding tissues causing orbital cellulitis, abscess formation, or rarely, sepsis. Chronic inflammation may also lead to permanent damage to the lacrimal drainage system, making future surgical correction more difficult and less successful.
Related Conditions

Conditions we treat.

FAQ

About dacryocystorhinostomy (dcr).

What is Dacryocystorhinostomy and who needs it in Nizamabad?
How long does it take to recover from Dacryocystorhinostomy?
Is Dacryocystorhinostomy performed under general or local anaesthesia?
What is the success rate of Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery?
Will there be visible scarring after Dacryocystorhinostomy?

Ready to take the first step?

Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.

📍 Harsha Sai Eye Hospital, Opposite District Court, Nizamabad🕐 Mon–Sat: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM