In cases of more severe infections Dr. Meyers may recommend placing antibiotics in the eye following the pressure on the sac. Most tear blockage in infants disappears by six months of age. If the tearing persists, it may be necessary for Dr. Meyers to open the tear ducts by probing and irrigation. A thin, blunt, metal wire is gently passed through the tear drainage system to open any obstruction. Fluid is then irrigated through the system into the nose to ensure that the pathway is open.
Infants have no pain after the probing.
Some blood-staining of the tears or nasal secretions is common after probing. There may be discharge in the eye for up to a week, and antibiotics may be prescribed. Obstruction can recur, and repeated probing may be required. If probings are not successful, plastic or silicone tubes can be placed in the drainage canals. This is a longer procedure than probing and requires general anesthesia.