Learn the signs and causes of tear duct obstruction

A blocked tear duct can lead to tears running down the cheek, sticky eyes, and a higher chance of eye infections in babies

Learn the signs and causes of tear duct obstruction

A blocked tear duct can lead to tears running down the cheek, sticky eyes, and a higher chance of eye infections in babies

With tear duct obstruction, watering and stickiness can be hard to ignore

Find clear answers about watery eyes, sticky discharge, infections, and the next steps for diagnosis and care

What is tear duct obstruction?

Also known as watery eye, tear duct obstruction can affect new-born babies.

Tear ducts are structures located inside the upper and lower corner of the eye. These ducts drain tears from the eyes down to the back of the nose. All new born babies are born with tiny ducts but some babies’ ducts are not yet completely open.

A commonly reported symptom is constant watering of the eye, where tears run down the babies’ cheek. Babies with this condition are more prone to contracting conjunctivitis where antibiotic eye drops/syrups will be used to eliminate the infection. Luckily, 90% of babies with an obstructed tear duct tend to naturally open before they are 1 year old.

Firstly, a non-invasive approach is preferred for treatment. This can include a tear duct massage with warm compresses to help open up the obstructed tear duct along with antibiotics for any associated conjunctivitis.

If the previously mentioned treatments are unsuccessful, a final option would be surgery to manually open the tear duct.

Clear guidance for your eye care journey

Eye treatment options can vary from person to person. We help you understand what is happening and what care may be right for you

Step 1: REACH OUT

The first step is to book an assessment so your symptoms, concerns, or vision goals can be discussed with the clinic. Give our friendly team a call or use our easy online calendar to book a free assessment.

Step 2: WE’LL MEET

At your visit, our refractive surgeons will examine your eyes, explain the findings, and talk through the treatment options that may be appropriate for your condition and needs.

Step 3: ENJOY COMFORT

After treatment, the aim is to help you see more clearly, feel more comfortable, and manage your eye health with greater confidence. Depending on your condition and treatment plan, this may make daily life feel easier and more manageable.

Find comfort and clarity for your eyes

Take our free online assessment to discover the next step toward healthier, more comfortable vision

Hi, I’m Dr John Males

I’m the owner and principal surgeon at Envision Eye Centre, specialising in laser vision correction, cataract, and corneal surgery. With over 15 years’ experience, I’ve been involved in introducing advanced procedures such as SMILE® and laser-assisted cataract surgery in Australia. I’ve held leadership roles at St Vincent’s Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, and I continue to contribute to teaching and research through the University of Sydney. My focus is always on delivering safe, precise, and personalised care, using the latest technology to help patients achieve the best possible visual outcomes.

Dr John Males

M.B B. Sc. (Med)(Hons) MMed (Clin Epi) FRANZCO