Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in London

Award-winning care with Mr Florian Bast, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon. Winner of Best Surgical Result at the Aesthetic Awards 2025.

Award-winning care with Mr Florian Bast, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon. Winner of Best Surgical Result at the Aesthetic Awards 2025.

Mr Florian Bast - Rhinologist and ENT Surgeon London

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat tear duct obstruction in adults. It helps tears drain normally from the eye into the nose. This can relieve symptoms such as constantly watery eyes and repeated infections.

The procedure is performed by Mr Florian Bast, Consultant Rhinologist, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon. He uses advanced endoscopic techniques to achieve reliable, long-lasting results, without any external scars.

About Mr Florian Bast, Rhinologist and ENT Surgeon London

MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS

What Is Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)?

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery treats blockage in the tear drainage system, known as the nasolacrimal duct. When this duct is blocked, tears cannot drain into the nose. Instead, they overflow onto the face.

The procedure creates a new internal drainage pathway between the tear sac and the nasal cavity. This allows tears to drain normally again. Because the surgery is carried out through the nose, there are no cuts on the skin.

Endoscopic DCR is a functional tear duct obstruction treatment. Its aim is to relieve symptoms and prevent infection, not to change appearance.

When This Procedure Can Help

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy may be recommended if you have symptoms of tear duct obstruction that do not improve with simpler treatments. It is commonly used for:

Woman unhappy and covering her eyes with her hands due to painful tear ducts

Tear duct obstruction in adults

Close up of a womans eye watering

Ongoing watery eyes (epiphora)

Close up of a womans eye red from an infection

Repeated infections of the tear sac (dacryocystitis)

A full assessment is needed to confirm the cause of the blockage and decide whether surgery is the right option.

MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS

How the Procedure Is Performed

Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery is usually carried out in a hospital under general anaesthetic.

A small endoscope is gently passed through the nostril to view the inside of the nose. Using fine instruments, Mr Bast creates a new opening between the tear sac and the nasal cavity. This allows tears to bypass the blocked duct.

In some cases, a small temporary stent is placed to keep the new opening open while healing takes place. The procedure is minimally invasive and usually takes less than one hour. Most patients go home the same day.

MR FLORIAN BAST EXPLAINS

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Common symptoms include constant watery eyes, repeated eye infections, discharge from the eye, irritation around the inner corner of the eye, and blurred vision caused by excess tears.

  • Most patients notice a significant reduction in watery eyes once healing is complete. Results depend on the cause of the blockage, which Mr Bast will assess during consultation.

  • Discomfort is usually mild and well controlled with simple pain relief. The procedure itself is performed under general anaesthetic.

  • Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery usually takes between 30 minutes and one hour.

  • Many patients return to desk-based work within a few days. Your recovery plan will be discussed in advance.

  • Improvement is often noticed within the first few weeks, as swelling settles and healing progresses.

  • Risks are uncommon but can include bleeding, infection, or persistent symptoms. These will be fully explained by Mr Bast.

  • Endoscopic DCR is usually performed on its own. In some cases, it may be combined with other nasal treatments if needed.

  • Costs vary depending on individual needs. A full quotation is provided after consultation.

  • Not always. Assessment may include nasal endoscopy or imaging if required. Mr Bast will advise what is necessary.

  • Patient Review

    “My experience with Mr Bast was excellent. I saw him for an initial consultation due to breathing problems and he recommended a functional Septoplasty with turbinate reduction, but emphasised that it was my decision…he explained the surgery and recovery process thoroughly, including possible complications and the practices he uses to mitigate these, so I felt I was in very safe hands throughout… My breathing has improved vastly since, as well as secondary issues such as sleep. I am very thankful to Mr Bast and I recommend him highly!”

  • Patient Review

    “I had a wonderful experience undergoing Septoplasty and turbinate reduction with Mr Bast. I cannot praise him enough for his expertise, thoroughness and support throughout the process. He is meticulous and takes great pride in his work, and the results speak for themselves.”

  • Patient Review

    “Honestly, I can't recommend Mr Bast enough. He is so thorough, patient and highly skilled, his attention to detail is amazing. I was extremely nervous to have surgery on my nose and had researched so many surgeons, Mr Bast came highly recommended by a surgeon friend of mine. After my first consultation I was already certain Mr Bast was the best choice. Aesthetic result is even better than the morphed photos, and breathing is now perfect. No issues start to finish, highly highly recommend. His secretary Julia was such a pleasure too, so helpful and knowledgeable!”

Mr Florian bast in a black suit and white shirt

Why Choose Mr Florian Bast

Mr Florian Bast is a Consultant Rhinologist, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in endoscopic nasal and sinus surgery. His detailed understanding of nasal anatomy allows for precise, minimally invasive treatment with a strong focus on safety and long-term results.

All care is consultant-led, with clear communication and attentive follow-up throughout your treatment.

Mr Florian Bast offers Rhinoplasty, ENT and facial plastic surgery at a variety of hospitals in London, England. These include: Rhinology at Cromwell Hospital, London; Rhinology at Cadogan Clinic, London; Balloon sinus dilation at The Lister Hospital, London; Endoscopic balloon dilation at Weymouth Street Hospital, London; Rhinology at Guys Hospital and St Thomas’ Hospital, London; ENT services at 25 & 9 Harley Street, London; Rhinology at Sydney Street Diagnostics Centre, London.