Dry eye syndrome has become one of the most common eye conditions affecting people worldwide, especially individuals who work long hours on computers, wear contact lenses, undergo refractive surgery, or live in low-humidity environments. When artificial tears and lubricating eye drops are no longer enough, an effective next step is punctal plug treatment.

Vietnam has rapidly become a popular destination for dry eye treatments, including punctal plug insertion, thanks to modern eye centers, skilled ophthalmologists, and very affordable prices. This guide covers everything international patients need to know about punctal plugs in Vietnam, including how they work, who needs them, the procedure, costs, top hospitals, and how to plan your medical trip.

What Are Punctal Plugs?

Punctal plugs are tiny medical devices placed in the tear drainage ducts (puncta) to slow or stop the drainage of tears. By blocking tear outflow, moisture stays on the eye surface longer, providing relief from dry eye symptoms.

Punctal plugs are also called:

• Tear duct plugs

• Lacrimal plugs

• Punctal occlusion plugs

• Dry eye plugs

They are extremely small—usually between 0.3 mm and 1 mm—and made from soft materials such as silicone or collagen.

How Punctal Plugs Work

The human eye drains tears through two small openings located in the upper and lower eyelids. These openings connect to the tear drainage system and channel tears into the nose.

When the puncta are blocked using punctal plugs, tears remain on the eye surface, helping relieve:

• Dryness

• Burning

• Grittiness

• Redness

• Eye fatigue

• Blurred vision due to tear instability

The result is improved lubrication, better tear film stability, and long-lasting comfort.

Who Needs Punctal Plugs?

Punctal plugs are recommended for patients with moderate to severe dry eye syndrome, especially when other treatments offer only partial relief.

Common candidate groups include:

1. Computer and office workers

People who use screens for long hours tend to blink less, causing faster tear evaporation.

2. Post-LASIK or SMILE patients

Laser vision correction temporarily reduces corneal nerve sensitivity, leading to decreased tear production.

3. Contact lens users

Long-term contact lens use often causes dryness and irritation.

4. Age-related dry eye

Natural tear production decreases with age, especially after 50.

5. Hormonal dry eye

Common among women during pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal therapy.

6. Autoimmune dry eye (Sjögren’s Syndrome)

A serious condition that severely reduces tear production.

7. Medication-induced dry eye

Antihistamines, antidepressants, and acne medications may induce dryness.

Types of Punctal Plugs Available in Vietnam

Vietnamese eye centers offer both temporary and permanent punctal plugs.

1. Temporary Punctal Plugs (Collagen Plugs)

• Made from natural collagen

• Dissolve within days to weeks

• Used to test whether the patient responds well

• Ideal for first-time treatment

2. Permanent Punctal Plugs (Silicone Plugs)

• Long-lasting and removable

• Suitable for chronic dry eye

• Available in various sizes

• Can be surface-level or deeper inside the canal

3. Intracanalicular Plugs

• Placed deeper into the tear duct

• Invisible externally

• Less likely to fall out

4. Thermally Activated Plugs

• Activated by body temperature

• Softens and conforms to the punctum

• Suitable for severe dry eye cases

Benefits of Punctal Plugs

Most patients experience noticeable improvement within 24–72 hours.

Key benefits include:

• Long-lasting relief from dryness and irritation

• Reduction in burning and foreign-body sensation

• Less dependency on artificial tears

• Improved vision stability

• Better comfort during reading, driving, or using screens

• Ideal for post-LASIK patients

• Quick, safe, and reversible treatment

Punctal Plug Procedure in Vietnam

The procedure is simple, quick, and performed in an outpatient setting.

Procedure steps:

1. Consultation and assessment
   The doctor evaluates tear production, punctum size, and dry eye severity.

2. Numbing eye drops
   Used for comfort during insertion.

3. Insertion of the plug
   A tiny plug is gently placed into the tear duct.

4. Follow-up evaluation
   The doctor ensures the plug fits and functions properly.

Procedure time:

2–5 minutes

Pain level:

Minimal, often described as slight pressure.

Recovery:

Immediate — patients can resume normal activities right away.

Possible Side Effects (Rare)

Despite being very safe, punctal plugs may cause:

• Mild irritation

• Watery eyes

• Redness

• Plug displacement

• Minor inflammation

• Rare infection

If necessary, plugs can be removed quickly and easily.

A Vietnamese ophthalmologist conducts a dry eye evaluation before punctal plug treatment, supported by MedtourVietnam.

Cost of Punctal Plugs in Vietnam

Vietnam offers very affordable prices for dry eye treatment due to its competitive healthcare system.

Estimated cost (2025):

Vietnam is significantly more affordable than Western countries, where prices can be 5–10 times higher.

Best Eye Centers for Punctal Plug Treatment in Vietnam

1. Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital

High patient volume, experienced specialists, and advanced diagnostics.

2. National Eye Hospital (Hanoi)

The leading public eye hospital in Vietnam with extensive clinical experience.

3. Vinmec International Hospital (Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City)

Modern international-standard facilities with trained ophthalmologists.

4. FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)

JCI-accredited hospital offering comprehensive dry eye evaluations.

5. Saigon Eye Hospital System

Private eye hospital network known for fast service and accessible prices.

Why Vietnam Is a Great Choice for Dry Eye Treatment

• Modern ophthalmology equipment

• Specialists trained in France, Singapore, Japan, and Korea

• Affordable and transparent pricing

• Minimal waiting time

• High-quality patient care

• Perfect destination for combined medical and leisure trips

How International Patients Can Prepare

• Bring past eye exam results

• Avoid contact lenses before the appointment

• List all medications

• Mention autoimmune conditions

• Plan 1–2 days for consultation and follow-up

Aftercare and Recovery

Short-term care:

• Avoid rubbing the inner corner of the eye

• Use lubricating drops as prescribed

• Limit makeup for 24 hours

Long-term care:

• Maintain eyelid hygiene

• Report excessive tearing

• Schedule follow-up appointments

• Consider supplementing with omega-3 or warm compress therapy

Most patients experience lasting comfort for months or even years.

FAQ

1. Do punctal plugs cause pain?

No. The procedure is very comfortable.

2. How long do punctal plugs last?

Collagen plugs last weeks; silicone plugs last months to years.

3. Can punctal plugs fall out?

Yes, but replacements are easy and quick.

4. Are punctal plugs reversible?

Absolutely. They can be removed anytime.

5. Is this treatment safe for children or elderly patients?

Yes, punctal plugs are safe across all age groups.