Lacrifill is an FDA-cleared dry eye treatment that involves injecting a cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel into the tear ducts, which temporarily blocks tear drainage, increasing natural tear retention and providing relief from dry eye symptoms for up to six months. This minimally invasive procedure is a longer-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to artificial tears and punctal plugs, suitable for patients experiencing dry eye not relieved by other therapies, or those undergoing cataract, glaucoma, or refractive surgery. A small amount of the special HA gel is injected into the puncta (small openings in the eyelids) and then into the tear duct system. The gel's cross-linked hyaluronic acid forms a temporary barrier within the canicular system, reducing tear drainage. This blockage allows the eye's natural tears to remain on the ocular surface longer, improving tear film stability, and reducing dryness, irritation, and burning.
