Private endoscopic (endonasal) DCR in the UK costs from £3,500 for one eye in 2026, with a typical self-pay range of £3,500–£5,500 depending on whether it is done under local sedation or general anaesthetic and whether one or both eyes are treated. The fee usually covers the consultant oculoplastic surgeon, anaesthetist, theatre and day-case admission, and routine follow-up. A specialist tear-duct assessment (with syringing and probing) is from around £200 and is arranged before surgery is confirmed.
What is DCR and why is it needed?
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is the operation that treats a blocked tear duct — a nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Tears normally drain from the eye into the nose through the lacrimal (tear) drainage system. When that pathway is blocked, tears overflow onto the cheek and the tear sac can become inflamed or infected. DCR creates a new drainage channel directly from the tear sac into the nose, bypassing the blockage so tears can drain normally again.
Common reasons people are referred for DCR include a constantly watery eye (epiphora), a sticky or mattering eye, and recurrent dacryocystitis (repeated infections of the tear sac, sometimes with a painful lump near the inner corner of the eye). Symptoms of a blocked tear duct typically include:
- Persistent watering that runs onto the cheek, often worse in wind or cold
- Sticky discharge or crusting, especially in the morning
- Repeated eye or tear-sac infections
- A tender swelling at the inner corner of the eye (over the tear sac)
- Blurred vision from a film of tears
If you would like to understand the wider range of eyelid and tear-duct procedures we coordinate, see our oculoplastics treatments overview, or read more about endoscopic DCR for a watery eye.
Endoscopic vs external DCR
Both approaches create the same new drainage pathway; the main difference is the route and whether there is a skin scar. Your surgeon will advise which is most suitable at your assessment.
The procedure
Endoscopic DCR is usually carried out as a day case under general anaesthetic (some patients are suitable for local anaesthetic with sedation) and typically takes about 45–60 minutes. A small opening is made between the tear sac and the inside of the nose to form a new drainage channel.
- Assessment: the tear drainage is examined, often with syringing and probing, to confirm the level of blockage.
- Anaesthetic: general anaesthetic (or local with sedation) is given as a day case.
- Surgery: using an endoscope passed through the nostril, the surgeon creates a new opening from the tear sac into the nose.
- Stent/tube: a fine silicone tube (stent) is usually placed to keep the new channel open while it heals.
- Recovery: you go home the same day with nasal care instructions.
A silicone tube (stent) is placed in most cases. It sits discreetly at the inner corner of the eye and is usually removed in clinic a few weeks to a few months later — a quick, simple procedure that does not need another anaesthetic.
Not sure whether endoscopic or external DCR is right for you? A consultant assessment will confirm the diagnosis and the best approach.
Request a consultationWhat's included in the price
Our self-pay DCR package is designed to be a clear, fixed price wherever possible. It typically includes:
- Your consultant oculoplastic surgeon's fee
- Anaesthetist's fee and anaesthetic
- Theatre and day-case admission
- Silicone tube (stent) placement where required
- Routine post-operative follow-up, including tube removal in clinic
The initial specialist tear-duct assessment (consultation with syringing/probing to confirm the blockage) is charged separately from around £200 and is arranged before surgery is booked. You can compare related procedures on our oculoplastics pricing page.
Endoscopic DCR cost breakdown (UK 2026)
| Item | UK 2026 self-pay (guide) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tear-duct assessment (syringing & probing) | From £200 | Specialist consultation to confirm the blockage |
| Endoscopic DCR — one eye | From £3,500 | No external scar; day case |
| Endoscopic DCR under general anaesthetic | £4,000–£5,000 | Includes anaesthetist and theatre fees |
| Endoscopic DCR — both eyes (bilateral) | Up to ~£5,500 | Done in one session where appropriate |
| Silicone tube (stent) removal | Usually included | Quick clinic procedure, no anaesthetic |
Prices are 2026 self-pay guides and are confirmed in writing after your consultation. Final cost depends on anaesthetic type, one vs both eyes, and individual clinical factors.
NHS vs private DCR
DCR is available on the NHS for a blocked tear duct, particularly where there are repeated infections, but waiting times for assessment and surgery can be long. Choosing private treatment means a faster consultant assessment, a planned surgery date that suits you, continuity with the same surgeon, and the choice of the scar-free endoscopic approach. Clinically, the operation and its goals are the same in both settings.
Insurance and finance
DCR for a symptomatic blocked tear duct is a functional (medically indicated) procedure, so it is often covered by private medical insurance. Check your policy and pre-authorisation requirements with your insurer, and we can provide the relevant procedure codes. For self-pay patients, 0% finance is available to spread the cost. Our team can talk you through both options — call 0800 852 7782.
Recovery and success
First 24–48 hours
Mild discomfort and a little blood-tinged discharge from the nose are normal. Sleep with your head slightly raised and avoid blowing your nose.
First 1–2 weeks
Use any prescribed drops or nasal sprays. Avoid nose-blowing, strenuous activity and swimming. The silicone tube stays in place and is barely noticeable.
Weeks to a few months
The new drainage channel settles. The tube is removed in clinic at the planned time — a quick, painless step.
Long-term outcome
Most patients have a dry, comfortable eye with around a 90% or higher success rate. Risks are uncommon and include bleeding, infection, scarring of the new opening, or the rare need for revision surgery.