Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs stop tears from draining out of the eye by either temporarily or permanently blocking the tear ducts

Who’s Suitable?

Punctal plugs are suitable for people who have reduced tear production.  If your eyes itch, burn, or sting, punctal plugs may be just the thing to relieve your symptoms.  Your suitability will be assessed during your dry eye assessment.  For information about prices please click here.

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Types of Punctal Plugs

Temporary Plugs

Synthetic temporary plugs dissolve over a period of 3 months. Dr Dave uses these to evaluate whether permanent plugs will be beneficial in treating dry eye or for patients who have a temporary dry eye.  Temporary plugs can hardly be felt as they are positioned within the tear duct.  Furthermore, temporary plugs are invisible as they are lodged within the tear duct.

Permanent Plugs

Silicone plugs do not dissolve, they are fitted on top of the opening of the tear duct.  When your Dr Dave inserts the plug into your tear duct, the tip will be barely visible on your eyelid. Although they are called ‘permanent’ plugs, they can be removed.  Sometimes removal is necessary if there is discomfort.  However, the most common issue with permanent plugs is that they can fall out.

Types of Punctal Plugs

Temporary Plugs

Synthetic temporary plugs dissolve over a period of 3 months. Dr Dave uses these to evaluate whether permanent plugs will be beneficial in treating dry eye or for patients who have a temporary dry eye.  Temporary plugs can hardly be felt as they are positioned within the tear duct.  Furthermore, temporary plugs are invisible as they are lodged within the tear duct.

Permanent Plugs

Silicone plugs do not dissolve, they are fitted on top of the opening of the tear duct.  When your Dr Dave inserts the plug into your tear duct, the tip will be barely visible on your eyelid. Although they are called ‘permanent’ plugs, they can be removed.  Sometimes removal is necessary if there is discomfort.  However, the most common issue with permanent plugs is that they can fall out.

Suffering with Dry Eyes?

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Suffering from Dry Eyes?

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