- Cataract
- Glaucoma
- Eyelid Surgery
- Cosmetic Treatments
- Refractive Surgery
- Eye Conditions
Treatment will vary depending upon the specific cause of the irritation of the surface of the eye leading to tear overproduction. For example, dry eyes and blepharitis are treated medically, whilst in-turning lashes are treated with a minor surgical procedure.
Treatment again depends upon the cause. Common procedures are briefly detailed below.
The tear drainage holes in the eyelid margins (punctae) sometimes become narrowed, preventing tears from draining properly. A punctoplasty is a minor procedure to widen this narrowed punctum. It is performed under local anaesthetic.
A DCR is performed when there is an obstruction in the tear drainage system. A small incision is made on the side of the nose, or through the nose with the use of an endoscope (a surgical telescope).
The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic, and involves a fine silicone tube being put in place to maintain the new opening that is created in the tear drainage system. This is tube is removed a few weeks later.
There are different operations to correct an ectropion, depending on the severity, underlying cause, and whether the whole or part of the lid is affected.
Blinking causes the muscles of the lower eyelid to ‘pump’ tears into the punctae. Laxity of the eyelids increasingly occurs with age, and causes this pumping action to become less effective, thus leading to watering.
Tightening of the lower eyelids is achieved with relatively minor surgery.
I graduated from Birmingham University in 1992, and have been an Eye Specialist for almost 20 years.
Following my Ophthalmology Specialist Training, I completed two Fellowships (advanced training) in glaucoma, working with the world-renowned Professor Anthony Molteno in New Zealand and Professor Peter Shah in Birmingham. Thereafter, I undertook a Fellowship in oculoplastic/lacrimal surgery, again in Birmingham. As a result, I am dual-qualified, which allows me to perform a wide range of ophthalmic procedures.
I have been a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the North Devon Healthcare NHS Trust since 2003. In this role, I perform high volume cataract surgery and am the Clinical Lead for the Glaucoma and Oculoplastic/Lacrimal Surgery services.
Tel: 07503751349 | 01271 349128
Email: karlwhittaker@devoneyesurgeon.co.uk