Blocked tear duct and watery eyes

What Causes Watery Eyes?

Watery eyes, or epiphora, are a common and frustrating problem. They can affect one or both eyes and may cause blurred vision, irritation, or tears constantly spilling over the cheeks. While many people assume it's simply due to “sensitive eyes” or aging, there are actually several potential causes — and effective treatments are available once the correct diagnosis is made.

There are two main reasons why eyes may water excessively:

1. Overproduction of tears – often a response to dryness, irritation, or inflammation

2. Poor drainage of tears – most commonly due to a blocked tear duct

In many cases, both factors can be involved. A detailed examination is needed to identify the underlying cause and guide the right treatment.

 

Blocked Tear Ducts (Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction)

One of the most common causes of persistent watery eyes in adults is a blockage in the tear drainage system, known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). Normally, tears drain from the eye into the nose through a small system of channels. If any part of this system is blocked, tears overflow onto the cheek instead.

Symptoms of NLDO may include:

• Constant tearing or watery eye

• Blurred vision due to excess tears

• Recurrent infections or sticky discharge

• Irritation at the inner corner of the eye

 

How Is It NLDO Treated?

If a blocked tear duct is confirmed, the gold standard treatment is a procedure called dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) — which creates a new channel for tears to drain into the nose.

Miss Ting performs the endonasal DCR, a modern and minimally invasive procedure that:

• Is carried out through the nostril, with no external scar

• Has a high success rate

• Allows for quicker recovery and less disruption to surrounding tissues

​

Other Causes of Watery Eyes

Sometimes, the tear duct is not blocked, and other factors may be contributing to the symptoms. These include:

• Eyelid laxity or malposition (e.g. ectropion or entropion)

• Narrowing of the puncta (small tear openings in the eyelids)

• Reflex tearing due to dry eye

• Conjunctival scarring or inflammation

• Previous trauma or surgery near the eyelids or tear duct

In some patients, there may be more than one cause, which is why Miss Ting always carries out a comprehensive assessment using clinical examination, imaging, and occasionally tear drainage tests to identify all contributing factors.

 

Tailored Treatment for Long-Term Relief

Because the causes of watery eyes can vary widely from person to person, Miss Ting provides a personalised treatment plan based on the specific findings in each case. As a highly trained ASOPRS-certified oculoplastic surgeon, she brings expertise in both diagnosis and surgical management of complex tear drainage problems.

Whether the solution involves minor eyelid adjustment, punctal treatment, or advanced endonasal DCR, patients can be reassured that they are in expert hands.

 

Next Steps

If you are experiencing persistent watery eyes or have been told you may need tear duct surgery, Miss Ting can provide a thorough consultation and recommend the most effective, up-to-date treatment options. Please get in touch to arrange an appointment.