"I struggled with dry eyes for years. The punctal plugs made such a difference — my eyes feel comfortable for the first time in ages."
Janet Clarke
Punctal Plugs
Specialist Care
Lasting Relief from Dry, Irritated Eyes.
When drops aren't enough, punctal plugs offer a simple, painless solution that helps your eyes retain their natural moisture — giving you lasting comfort.
Do Any of These Sound Familiar?
Eye drops provide only temporary relief from dryness
Your eyes feel gritty, tired, or irritated — especially with screen use
You've tried multiple treatments but nothing seems to last
Post-surgical dryness that hasn't fully resolved
Your Journey
Your Journey to Lasting Comfort
Dry Eye Assessment
A thorough evaluation of your tear film and dry eye severity.
Tear Film Analysis
Advanced diagnostics to understand the root cause of your symptoms.
Plug Insertion
Tiny, painless procedure taking just 5 minutes. No anaesthetic needed.
Immediate Relief
Most patients notice improved comfort within hours of insertion.
Ongoing Management
Regular reviews to monitor your comfort and adjust treatment as needed.
How Punctal Plugs Work
Punctal plugs are tiny biocompatible devices inserted into the tear ducts (puncta) at the inner corners of your eyes. They reduce tear drainage, helping your eyes retain their natural moisture for longer.
The insertion takes just minutes and is virtually painless. Plugs can be temporary (dissolvable) or semi-permanent, depending on your needs. Many patients experience significant relief from dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
Am I Suitable?
Punctal plugs offer lasting relief for patients whose dry eye symptoms aren't adequately controlled by drops alone:
Chronic dry eyes that don't respond well to artificial tears
Excessive tearing caused by poor tear film quality
Post-operative dryness following laser or cataract surgery
Contact lens intolerance related to insufficient tear production
Your consultant will confirm your suitability at your free consultation based on a thorough assessment of your eyes.
What to Expect
Punctal plug insertion is a quick, minimally invasive procedure with an excellent safety profile. A few things to note:
- Temporary watery eyes — actually a positive sign that tear drainage is being effectively slowed
- Rare: plug displacement — if a plug falls out, it can be easily replaced at a follow-up visit
- Temporary plugs dissolve naturally after a few months — a useful trial before considering permanent plugs
- In rare cases, patients may experience mild discomfort — the plug can be removed immediately if needed
Common Questions About Punctal Plugs
What exactly are punctal plugs?
Punctal plugs are tiny biocompatible devices inserted into the tear drainage channels (puncta) of your eyelids. They work by slowing tear drainage, keeping your eyes naturally moist for longer.
Does the insertion hurt?
Not at all. The procedure takes less than 5 minutes and is virtually painless. No anaesthetic is usually required, though numbing drops can be applied if preferred.
Can I feel the plugs in my eyes?
No. Once inserted, punctal plugs are invisible and cannot be felt. Most patients forget they are there.
Are they permanent?
Both temporary (dissolvable) and semi-permanent options are available. Temporary plugs dissolve over several months; semi-permanent plugs remain in place but can be removed at any time.
What if they don't work for me?
If punctal plugs don't provide sufficient relief, they can be easily removed and alternative dry eye treatments explored. There is no risk in trying them.
When Can I Resume Normal Activities?
| Activity | Timeline | |
|---|---|---|
| Driving | Immediately | |
| Screen work | Immediately | |
| Eye makeup | 24 hours | |
| Swimming | 24 hours | |
| Exercise | Immediately | |
| Contact lens wear | As advised |
Your Recovery Journey
Immediately
Instant Procedure
Punctal plug insertion takes less than 5 minutes and is virtually painless. You may feel a slight sensation in the corner of your eye — this settles quickly.
Day 1
Settling In
The plugs are in position and your tear film begins to stabilise. You may notice slightly watery eyes — this is a positive sign that moisture is being retained on the eye surface.
Week 1
Comfort Improving
Most patients feel a noticeable improvement in dry eye symptoms. The plugs are invisible and you should not feel them at all. Continue any prescribed drops.
Ongoing
Long-Term Relief
Punctal plugs can last months to years depending on type. Your specialist will monitor their effectiveness and replace them if needed. Many patients find this simple treatment transformative.
Investment
Punctal Plugs
From £295 per session
0% finance available — spread the cost over 12-24 months.
View All PricingCQC Outstanding
Bupa Approved
AXA Recognised
0% Finance
99.4% Satisfaction
Ready for Lasting Comfort?
Book a consultation and discover if punctal plugs are right for you.
Book a Consultation