Tear Duct Surgery

Excessive tearing is a common condition. There are various causes (altered blink dynamic, eyelid malposition, and tear drainage issues). It is important to meet with an oculoplastic surgeon who will take a thorough history and perform a detailed exam to isolate the cause.  All too often, patients suffer for years and are told they have dry eyes. They are given numerous drops to use which do not alleviate their symptoms, and may even worsen the tearing. Not all tearing is caused by dry eyes. In other cases, the cause is congenital. Children may suffer from a wet, sticky, crusty eye.

If you are found to have a tearing issue, Dr. Hui will determine its exact cause and guide you to the most appropriate treatment. In cases of a blocked tear duct, she may perform an outpatient surgery to bypass this blockage. She will create a new duct for the tears to drain from the eye. Post- operative pain is minimal. Most patients return to normal activities after 1 week and have significant relief of the tearing almost immediately.

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Dr. Jennifer Hui is a board certified oculoplastic surgeon providing state of the art treatments for eyelid surgery and other eye and face related procedures.

FAQ’s

An oculoplastic surgeon specializes in surgery of the eyelids and orbit (tissues around the eye) and the lacrimal system (tear duct system). After medical school, a one year internship and three year residency in Ophthalmology (eye surgery) are completed. An additional two year fellowship in Oculoplastic surgery gives your surgeon the intricate knowledge of eyelid, orbital and lacrimal anatomy that is required for an optimal outcome. Dr. Hui is a board certified Ophthalmologist and a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (a very select group of approximately 1,000 Oculoplastic surgeons in the United States).

Dr. Hui will meet with you personally to discuss your goals. After a review of your history and an examination, she will recommend the optimal plan for you. Dr. Hui personally performs all surgeries and cosmetic procedures (filler and Botox). We have a small close knit office, and the staff and I are in constant communication to take the best care of you possible.

Surgery may be performed in the office with local anesthesia or at an outpatient surgery center with intravenous sedation. Dr. Hui will help you determine the ideal location for your procedure after your first meeting.

In most cases, after a week of light activity (no strenuous exercise OR heavy lifting), you are able to return to your usual activities. Dr. Hui will review the recommendations for your particular procedure after she reviews your history and the treatment plan.

In most cases, patients do not take any post-operative pain medication, or Tylenol. If needed, additional pain medication may be prescribed.

Dr. Hui will examine your surgical sites and assess your healing. Any specific concerns will be addressed and post-operative care tailored to your particular needs. In most cases, dissolving sutures are used. However, if non dissolving sutures are used, she will remove those 1-2 weeks after surgery.

In some cases, insurance MAY cover some of your surgical procedures IF deemed medically necessary. Dr. Hui will evaluate your history particular case and discuss if insurance coverage may be possible.

A few happy clients

I had a great experience!

From my first office visit to my surgery I was treated with great care. Dr. Hui and her staff made me feel very comfortable and very at ease. Thank you for everything.

J.T.

Dr. Hui and her staff are exceptional!

I had the best experience ever! She is very knowledgeable and helpful and her staff is very professional. I am very pleased with the results and will definitely see her again in the future.

M.H.