What are Punctum plugs?

Punctum plugs are small implants that are placed in the eye’s lower inner tear duct (called puncta). Puncta are the tiny openings that drain tears from your eyes. Your puncta are about the size of a grain of rice, the plug reduces the amount of fluid that drains from the eye. This helps keep the eye’s surface moist and comfortable, relieving itchy, burning, and red eyes.

The punctum plug itself is made of hypoallergenic, medical-grade silicone and effectively limits tear drainage, allowing the eye to hold onto more moisture.

What Is The Benefit of Having Punctum Plugs Fitted?

The benefit of having punctum plugs fitted is to limit the drainage of tears through the lacrimal system, which enables the eye’s natural tear film to be fuller and more stable, therefore reducing the symptoms of dry eye.

Is the Fitting Process Painful?

The fitting procedure is extremely simple, quick and painless. The tear duct is anaesthetised using eye drops and the insertion of the plugs takes a matter of minutes.

How Long Do Punctum Plugs Last?

They are generally semi-permanent and naturally dissolve after 3 or 6 months (depending on the plugs fitted). This results in no damage or distortion to the tear duct itself.

More permanent punctum plugs are available and can be fitted by our specialist clinicians, where necessary.