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How do you deal with dry eyes?

Eye Conditions | Last Active: Nov 13, 2024 | Replies (744)

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@peach414144

Does any one know if permanent plugs can be removed?

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Replies to "Does any one know if permanent plugs can be removed?"

No, I dont think so. Ask the opthalmologist. Years ago, when I had it done ,the first step was to have a temporary plug put in one eye in the lower duct only. These temporary plugs dissolve overtime and let you see if you see any benefit. This is a very low risk procedure. It did seem to provide some benefit. Also, the temporary plug was not (for me) uncomfortable. Do not think I would want to have instrumentation poking around in a little narrow eye duct to remove a plug. I didnt even now opthalmologist were still recommending plugs in 2020. Also, if dry eyes get worse overtime and you are producing fewer tears, there is less and less for the plugs to prevent from draining out. At no point did my opthalmologist ever suggest removal of that one and only plug I had inserted.
Drops like Xiidra or Restasis in my humble opinion are a safer and non-invasive way to go. You can always discontinue.

Having had the one experience with the one plug in the one lower duct in my right eye, I would not recommend the procedure. Wanted to mention that those ducts are important in providing proper drainage for the tears and in preventing infections. Also, if your eyes are not as dry as mine, there is also the annoying potential risk of tear overflow because you are depending on natural evaporation to dry out your eye. As I said earlier, I was surprised to hear that this is still being done.