Dry Eye
One procedure offered to clients of Alpine Eye Care is called punctual occlusion. A procedure created to help with dry eye, punctual occlusion is a relatively quick and painless procedure which blocks one or more of the nasolacrimal puncta, or the ducts which drain your eyes into your nasal cavity. When a person suffers from dry eyes, an eye surgeon in northern Michigan may choose to use punctual occlusion to help slow the drainage of tears from your eyes, thereby relieving the symptoms of dry eye.
Closing the nasolacrimal puncta can be temporary or permanent. If it is decided that you do not need a permanent block, your northern Michigan eye surgery specialist may choose to use a punctal plug. This plug can be temporary to semi permanent. They are sometimes used to be sure that this is the right solution for your eyes and will either evaporate over time or may be removed in the future if desired. For those who need a more permanent fix, your northern Michigan eye surgery specialist may advise you that punctal occlusion is the right choice for your eyes. It is a permanent alternative and can be done in two ways, electrodessication or closing off with electricity or thermal cautery, closing off with heat.
The surgery is quick and drops to numb the eye are enough for any pain which may be felt. The doctor will simply lift the eyelid, located the puncta and seal it off. Recovery is almost immediate and many patients report that they feel immediate relief from symptoms of dry eye. As always, if you feel any discomfort or have any concerns, ask right away.
Alpine Eye Care is focused on helping you see better. We have offices in Grayling, Gaylord and Cheboygan Michigan. You can call us at 1-877-SEE-2020 or schedule an appointment by clicking here. If you are in northern Michigan and need eye surgery or other procedure or perhaps just an exam, Alpine Eye Care is here. Take good care of your eyes, and let Alpine Eye Care help.