11/17/2025
Many patients ask why punctal plugs don’t always give relief. 👀
If the ocular surface is inflamed, the eye is essentially holding onto poor-quality tears. Plugs can trap that inflamed, unstable tear film longer — often worsening redness, burning, and watering instead of improving it.
Treating the inflammation first (IPL, RF, meds, lid hygiene) is key before plugging the drains.