What Is Endoscopic DCR?
Endoscopic DCR is a closed surgical procedure performed through the nose with the help of a camera to open a blocked tear duct. DCR stands for dacryocystorhinostomy and aims to create a new passage between the tear sac and the nasal cavity. With the endoscopic method, no external incision is made and no scar remains. The surgeon uses an endoscope through the nose to open the blocked duct and restore drainage.
The procedure is generally performed under general anesthesia. Endoscopic DCR surgery reduces persistent tearing and infection complaints. The recovery process is more comfortable compared to open surgery and offers aesthetic advantages.
What Causes Tear Duct Obstruction?
Inflammation, trauma, or congenital structural abnormalities may cause tear duct obstruction. The tear duct allows tears to drain from the eye into the nose. This duct can become blocked due to infection, allergies, aging, or anatomical issues inside the nose. As a result of tear duct obstruction, excessive tearing, discharge, and infection may develop.
In cases of chronic obstruction, inflammation of the tear sac may also occur. In infants, congenital narrowing of the tear duct is common and often resolves with massage. However, in adults, if the duct does not open, surgical intervention may be required. Early diagnosis is important to prevent permanent damage.
In Which Cases Is Endoscopic DCR Performed?
If there is persistent tearing and infection in the eye, endoscopic DCR may be necessary. This surgical method is especially used in chronic conditions caused by tear duct obstruction. Endoscopic DCR is less invasive than the classical method and is performed through the nose. Since it is carried out without an external incision, the recovery process is more comfortable.
Endoscopic DCR is particularly preferred by patients with cosmetic concerns. The procedure permanently eliminates complaints by allowing tears to drain back into the nasal cavity. Symptoms such as tearing and inflammation are largely resolved with this method.
How Is Endoscopic DCR Performed?
Endoscopic DCR is performed by opening the tear duct through the nose with the help of a camera. During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a thin endoscope into the nasal cavity and visualizes the blocked tear duct. A new drainage pathway is created between the tear sac and the nose. Since no external incision is made, no facial scar remains.
Endoscopic DCR is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 30–60 minutes. In necessary cases, a silicone tube may be placed in the duct. After surgery, tearing decreases and the risk of infection is reduced. Regular follow-ups are important to ensure a healthy recovery process.
How Long Does Endoscopic DCR Surgery Take?
Endoscopic DCR surgery performed through the nose during the surgical process generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the patient’s anatomical structure and the degree of obstruction. Endoscopic DCR can be performed under local or general anesthesia and does not require an external incision. For patients with tear duct obstruction, this method offers both a fast and comfortable solution. After endoscopic DCR is completed, patients can usually be discharged on the same day. Bleeding and pain during the procedure are minimal. After this short operation, most patients quickly return to their normal daily lives.
Who Is Endoscopic DCR Suitable For?
Endoscopic DCR is a suitable treatment option for individuals experiencing tearing and recurrent eye infections.
This method is highly effective in adult patients diagnosed with tear duct obstruction. Endoscopic DCR is especially preferred by individuals who do not want visible scars on the face. Those experiencing eye discharge, constant tearing, and discomfort may benefit from this surgery. Additionally, the procedure can be safely performed in individuals without systemic disease who are suitable for general anesthesia. Endoscopic DCR is generally not recommended for children with congenital duct narrowing. Proper patient selection is of great importance for treatment success.
Recovery Process After Endoscopic DCR
The recovery period after endoscopic DCR is generally completed within 1–2 weeks and usually involves mild complaints.
In the first days, nasal congestion, mild bleeding, and tearing may continue, but these symptoms decrease within a short time. Silicone tubes placed inside the nose after endoscopic DCR are usually removed after 4–6 weeks. Patients should avoid heavy exercise in the days following surgery and use prescribed medications regularly. As tear drainage returns to normal, the risk of infection decreases. With proper care, the recovery process after endoscopic DCR proceeds smoothly. Regular follow-up visits are recommended for full success.
What Is the Success Rate of Endoscopic DCR?
When performed in suitable patients, the endoscopic DCR method has a success rate of over 85%.
Success is measured by complete resolution of tear duct obstruction and prevention of re-obstruction. Since endoscopic DCR is a minimally invasive method, the recovery process is fast and it offers aesthetic advantages. Proper patient selection and the surgeon’s experience directly affect the success rate. With accurate planning and regular follow-up, the risk of recurrence is quite low. After endoscopic DCR, complaints such as tearing and discharge usually resolve completely. Therefore, the procedure is an effective solution for tear duct obstruction.
Is Endoscopic DCR a Permanent Solution?
With proper patient selection and successful surgery, endoscopic DCR generally provides a permanent solution.
Endoscopic DCR, applied in the treatment of tear duct obstruction, helps eliminate the blockage and restore normal tear drainage into the nose. This method provides long-term relief through intranasal surgery without the need for an external incision. After endoscopic DCR, complaints completely disappear in most patients and the risk of re-obstruction is low. However, in some cases, especially if there are underlying causes, the duct may narrow again. Regular follow-ups and adherence to the surgeon’s recommendations are important for lasting results.
Endoscopic DCR Prices 2026
In 2026, endoscopic DCR surgery prices may range between 10,000 TL and 25,000 TL depending on the hospital and technical differences. A doctor’s examination is required for exact information. Current price research should always be conducted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Endoscopic DCR Surgery Painful?
Since no pain is felt during the procedure, endoscopic DCR surgery is generally painless.
Can the Tear Duct Become Blocked Again After Surgery?
As with any surgical treatment, the tear duct may rarely become blocked again after endoscopic DCR.
Can DCR Surgery Be Performed on Children?
If tear duct obstruction becomes permanent, DCR surgery can also be performed in children. Especially after the age of 1, if the tear duct has not opened and methods such as massage or probing are ineffective, DCR surgery may be considered.
Can Tear Duct Obstruction Resolve on Its Own?
Obstructions seen in the first few months after birth in infants often improve with massage and hygienic care. However, tear duct obstruction in adults generally does not resolve on its own.
Is There a Risk of Eye Infection After DCR?
If proper care is not taken after surgery, there may be a risk of eye infection following DCR.
Does Vision Get Affected After Endoscopic DCR?
During endoscopic DCR, the optic nerves or retinal structures are not intervened upon. Therefore, the risk of vision impairment is quite low.