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Lacrimal plugs, also called punctal plugs, are small devices placed into the lacrimal puncta to slow or block tear drainage. By keeping tears on the eye surface longer, they can improve lubrication and reduce dry eye symptoms in selected patients. Plugs can be temporary or longer lasting depending on the material and design. They are typically inserted in a clinic setting and can be removed if needed.
read more about lacrimal plugs ...Punctal occlusion reduces tear outflow through the puncta, increasing tear volume and retention time on the ocular surface. This can help when dry eye is driven by low tear production or rapid drainage. Plugs are often used in combination with artificial tears, eyelid care, and anti-inflammatory therapy. Clinicians may treat significant eyelid inflammation first because plugging inflamed systems can worsen symptoms.
Different plug types are chosen based on the goal and how long occlusion is needed.
Size selection matters because an undersized plug may fall out and an oversized plug may irritate.
Lacrimal plugs may help people with moderate to severe dry eye when lubrication alone is not enough. They are commonly considered in aqueous-deficient dry eye, including Sjögren syndrome related dry eye, and in some patients with post-surgical dryness. A temporary plug is often used first to confirm benefit and to reduce the risk of bothersome tearing. Your clinician will also check for infection, significant blepharitis, or active inflammation before recommending occlusion.
Most side effects are mild, but complications can occur.
Report persistent pain, swelling, discharge, or a lump near the inner corner because removal and treatment may be needed.
Temporary collagen plugs usually dissolve within days to weeks, depending on the product. Silicone plugs can last longer but may fall out or need replacement. Your clinician will recommend the type based on the desired duration.
Many people do not feel them after placement, but some notice a scratchy sensation at first. Persistent discomfort can suggest an improper fit, local irritation, or displacement.
Yes. Surface silicone plugs can often be removed in the clinic with forceps. Intracanalicular plugs may be harder to retrieve and sometimes require irrigation or a minor procedure if they cause problems.
They are generally considered safe when used in appropriate patients and monitored. The main risks include irritation, plug loss, and infection such as canaliculitis. Following up as advised helps detect and manage complications early.
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Punctal Plugs. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17668-punctal-plugs. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.
Dry Eye Syndrome. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470411/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.
Interventions for Dry Eye: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. PubMed Central (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11613798/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.
Current and Emerging Approaches in the Management of Dry Eye Disease. PubMed Central (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12566017/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.