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A bicanalicular laceration is a tear that affects both upper and lower tear drainage channels, known as the canaliculi. These tiny tubes carry tears from the eyelids to the nose. When both are injured, tear drainage becomes disrupted, leading to excessive tearing and discomfort. This type of injury usually happens after blunt trauma or deep cuts near the inner corner of the eyelid.
read more about bicanalicular laceration ...The injury often results from accidents involving sharp objects, animal bites, or sports-related impacts. It can also occur after facial trauma from car accidents or falls. In some cases, surgical procedures around the eyes or nose unintentionally damage the canaliculi. Immediate medical attention is needed to prevent long-term tear drainage problems.
Common symptoms include tearing that doesn't stop, swelling, and visible cuts near the inner eyelid. The eye area may feel sore or tender. Some people experience redness or fluid discharge. If untreated, scarring can block normal tear flow and cause chronic tearing or infection.
Diagnosis usually includes:
Treatment typically involves surgical repair performed by an oculoplastic surgeon. A thin silicone stent is placed through both canaliculi to keep them open while the tissue heals. Stents are left in place for several weeks to prevent narrowing or scarring. Early repair within 24 to 48 hours gives the best chance for normal tear function.
If you experience tearing, eyelid injury, or trauma near the inner corner of the eye, seek medical care immediately. Damage to both tear drainage canals can affect long-term tear flow. Early treatment supports proper healing and reduces the risk of blockage. Children with facial injuries should be checked promptly. Timely evaluation helps preserve normal tear drainage.
Early repair helps line up the torn drainage channels before swelling and scarring set in. When tissue edges heal in the wrong position, tear flow can stay blocked even after stitches. Fast treatment also lowers infection risk in contaminated injuries, such as bites. Prompt repair often leads to better long-term tear drainage.
A stent commonly stays for several weeks and sometimes a few months, depending on injury depth and healing. The goal is to keep the channel open while the tissue knits back together. Removal is usually done in clinic once healing looks stable. Your surgeon will set the timing based on follow-up findings.
Chronic tearing can become a daily problem because tears cannot drain normally. Stagnant tears can raise the chance of repeated infections or inflammation around the inner eyelid. Later surgery can help, but results can be less predictable than early repair. That is why quick evaluation after injury matters.
Swelling and bruising around the inner corner of the eye are common early on. The eye can feel gritty, and mild tearing can continue while healing progresses. Drops or ointment are often prescribed to reduce infection risk and calm irritation. Avoid eye rubbing and follow activity limits until the surgeon clears normal routines.
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4. Ocular Trauma Overview. American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries. Accessed January 16, 2026.
5. Lacrimal Drainage System Anatomy and Disorders. American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.org/Lacrimal_Drainage_System. Accessed January 16, 2026.
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