Punctal occlusion is a method to block the intracanalicular punctum
with temporary or permanent plugs. When properly fitted, punctal
plugs are not felt by the patient or visible to others.
Common After Lasik
It is relatively common for conventional or
wavefront custom
Lasik,
All-Laser Lasik patients to receive punctal plugs. Punctal plugs
help keep the eyes hydrated by blocking the drainage of the tears
through the nasolacrimal duct into the sinus system.
Punctal plugs come in many styles and sizes. A comfortable fit
should be available for all.
Temporary or Permanent
A Lasik patient may be provided with temporary punctal plugs.
After a predetermined number of days, they dissolve. If relief from
dry eye symptoms is provided during those few days, then semi-permanent
plugs may be inserted.
It is also possible to have these tear drainage ducts permanently
occluded with cauterization, but that is useful primarily if the
dry eye is chronic and expected to be long-term. The semi-permanent
plugs are normally comfortable and successful, and Lasik-induced
dry eye normally eventually resolves.
Headache Sinus Pain
Punctal plugs may help keep tears on the eye, but the sudden
lack of moisture into the sinus can cause irritation that may present
as headaches and pain behind the eye. See our article about
Lasik eye strain. These symptoms are often initially attributed
to dry eye. Verification if punctal plugs are required may be helpful.
See also
Lasik dry eye treatment.
If you are ready to choose a doctor to be evaluated for conventional
or wavefront custom Lasik, All-Laser Lasik,
PRKK,
LASEK,
Epi-Lasik,
NearVision CK,
RLE, or any
refractive surgery procedure, we highly recommend you consider
a doctor who has been evaluated and certified by the USAEyes
nonprofit organization. Locate a USAEyes Evaluated & Certified
Lasik Laser Eye Surgery Doctor.
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