If the duct is narrowed (stenosis), a tiny balloon catheter can be inserted into the duct. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to stretch the duct walls, creating a wider passage for tears.
The approach to clearing a blockage differs significantly between (where it is usually benign and self-resolving) and adults (where it often requires medical intervention). Below is a step-by-step, evidence-informed guide for both. how to clear a blocked tear duct