Are Punctal Plugs the Solution to Your Chronic Dry Eye?

Older woman suffering from chronic dry eye and rubbing them in irritation Chronic dry eye can be more than a minor annoyance; for many, it’s a persistent issue with symptoms like irritation, blurry vision, and a gritty sensation that over-the-counter drops just can’t fix. If you’re seeking lasting relief, punctal plugs may offer a solution.

At Longwood Eye & LASIK Center, our team of skilled ophthalmologists—Dr. John Warren, Dr. Aaron Fay, Dr. Howard Ying, Dr. David Lotufo, Dr. Cris Martin Jacoba, and Dr. Vamsee Neerukonda—bring years of specialized training and expertise to help you find the best treatment. With advanced knowledge in LASIK, cataract surgery, glaucoma care, and more, our doctors are equipped to provide high-quality, personalized eye care.

What Are Punctal Plugs?

Punctal plugs are tiny, biocompatible devices placed in the tear ducts to help retain your eye’s natural moisture. Typically made of soft silicone or collagen, punctal plugs are inserted into the tiny openings in the corners of the eyelids (known as puncta). By blocking these ducts, the tears produced naturally by your eyes stay on the eye’s surface longer, providing moisture where it’s needed most.

This quick, minimally invasive procedure is generally painless, offering a convenient solution for those who haven’t found relief with other dry eye treatments.

How Punctal Plugs Help With Chronic Dry Eye

Unlike over-the-counter drops that temporarily mask the symptoms, punctal plugs address dry eye at the source. By keeping natural tears on the eye’s surface longer, they help to relieve irritation, redness, and the constant need to reapply artificial tears. For many people, punctal plugs provide a more sustainable solution, especially those with moderate to severe dry eye.

Punctal plugs are also customizable; some are designed to dissolve over time, making them a temporary option, while others are semi-permanent, offering long-term relief. With minimal side effects and a high success rate, punctal plugs can be an ideal treatment option for people with persistent dryness.

Are Punctal Plugs Right for You?

If you’re experiencing chronic dry eye that hasn’t improved with typical remedies, you may be a good candidate for punctal plugs. People who spend long hours on screens, live in dry environments, or have medical conditions that contribute to dry eye often find punctal plugs especially beneficial. Concerns about side effects are minimal since the procedure is low-risk, and any initial discomfort usually fades quickly.

However, speaking with an eye care specialist is essential to determine if punctal plugs are the best option for your specific needs. Speaking with a specialist allows for personalized recommendations to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Your Path to Dry Eye Relief Starts in Massachusetts

If chronic dry eye is disrupting your life, punctal plugs could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Take the first step toward lasting relief by scheduling a consultation with Longwood Eye & LASIK Center today. Contact us at 800-676-5050 to find out if punctal plugs are right for you and begin your journey to clearer, more comfortable vision.

CALL 1-855-286-2020 OR CONTACT US BELOW TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY!

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