Snipping eye, referring to a 3-snip procedure, is a surgical technique used to treat watery eyes (epiphora) caused by a blocked or narrowed tear duct. It aims to widen the tear duct and improve tear drainage.
Understanding the 3-Snip Procedure
The 3-snip procedure specifically addresses issues in the puncta and canaliculi, the small openings and channels that drain tears from the eye to the lacrimal sac and, eventually, the nose. When these structures are narrowed or blocked, tears can overflow, causing excessive tearing.
How the Procedure Works
During the 3-snip procedure, a surgeon makes three small incisions to:
- Enlarge the punctal opening: The puncta (the small openings in the eyelids) are widened to facilitate better tear entry.
- Address canalicular stenosis: The canaliculi (small channels leading from the puncta to the lacrimal sac) are also widened if they are narrowed.
This widening allows for improved tear drainage, alleviating the symptoms of watery eyes.
Why Consider a Snipping Procedure?
This procedure is typically considered when:
- Conservative treatments like warm compresses and massage fail to provide relief.
- The cause of watery eyes is determined to be a narrowed puncta or canaliculi.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced or eliminated excessive tearing.
- Improved comfort and vision.
- Minimally invasive surgical approach.
Important Considerations
It's crucial to consult with an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon to determine if the 3-snip procedure is appropriate for your specific condition. They can assess the cause of your watery eyes and discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Other procedures such as DCR (dacryocystorhinostomy) exist and may be more suitable depending on where the blockage is.
