I have a possible BCC near my tear duct, what will happen to my eye if my tear duct is removed?

Question

Mariusz Sapijaszko, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Skin cancers near the tear ducts are common and it is important to have it removed with assurance of Mohs Surgery. The cancers in this location can go deeper and cause problems with the eye, vessels, nerves and even bone. When the cancer is removed and part or the entire tear duct is removed, there could be a problem with tearing. This can be corrected with recreation of the tear duct. This can usually be done by an ophthalmologist.The key is to remove the cancer and then have ducts fixed is need be.Make sure that you have proper assessment and consultation and a descussion with your Mohs Surgeon.I hope that helps

Ira Vidor, MD · Answer

Hi jennevie. Basal cell of the lower lid and the corner of the eye near the nose (an area called the medial canthus) often involves the tear duct. In these cases some of the tear duct may need to be removed. The eye will water and tear without an intact tear drain. The good news is that tear duct can be almost always be reconstructed. If a small amount is missing then placing a stent in the tear duct may be all that is needed. If a larger amount is removed, then a bypass tube (called a Jones tube) may be necessary. Often an Oculoplastic surgeon perform lacrimal surgery (tear duct surgery) and MOHS reconstruction in this intricate area. Of course, a real assessment of your particular case can not be done on the Internet, and you should see you surgeon regarding your case. Best regards, Ira Vidor, M.D.

I have a possible BCC near my tear duct, what will happen to my eye if my tear duct is removed?

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I have a possible BCC near my tear duct, what will happen to my eye if my tear duct is removed?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Mohs Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.