Punctal Plugs |
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The use of punctal plugs can be an effective way of treating moderate to severe dry eyes.
Tears normally drain into the nose via the tear ducts, blocking the puncta is a way to keep the tears in the eye for a longer time.
The term 'puncta' refers to the opening of the tear ducts on the eyelid margin.
Plugs that can be inserted inside the tear ducts to block them are called 'punctal plugs'.
Punctal plugs retain tears, increase the comfort level and lower the frequency of artificial tear use in most dry eye patients.
Punctal plugs can be inserted either in the lower eyelid or in both eyelids.
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Collagen punctal plugs These are ideal for short term use in warm weather conditions and are absorbed in 2-3 weeks. |
| Silicone/Soft punctal plugs Soft plugs are designed to be inserted into the opening of the tear duct. This helps to retain the tears in the eye. They can give relief to dry eyes up to 90 days. |
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Smarter canalicular plugs at
iSIGHT The Form Fit™ plug is made of a hydrogel material that expands into a soft, pliable, gelatinous material when it contacts the tear film. The Form Fit™ is easily removable by flushing saline solution through the punctal opening. It can give up to 6 months relief for dry eyes. These are ideal for contact lens wearers. |
To make an appointment with a Clinical Nurse Practitioner to discuss the different types of punctal plugs, please phone iSIGHT on 0845 602 2517