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External Disease·University Hills, Orange County

Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) Treatment in University Hills, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Epiphora is the medical term for excessive tearing or watery eyes. It occurs when tears overflow onto the face rather than draining properly through the tear ducts. This can be caused by overproduction of tears (reflex tearing from dry eye, allergies, or irritation) or poor drainage due to blocked tear ducts, eyelid malposition, or age-related changes.

University Hills patients experiencing excessive tearing (epiphora) benefit from our 35+ years of diagnostic experience and advanced imaging capabilities, ensuring accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.

Dr. Bonakdar on Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert excessive tearing (epiphora) diagnosis and treatment for patients in University Hills and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)?

Epiphora is the medical term for excessive tearing or watery eyes. It occurs when tears overflow onto the face rather than draining properly through the tear ducts. This can be caused by overproduction of tears (reflex tearing from dry eye, allergies, or irritation) or poor drainage due to blocked tear ducts, eyelid malposition, or age-related changes.

How is Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) treated?

Treatment options include Artificial tears for reflex tearing, Allergy eye drops, Warm compresses and massage, Punctal plugs (for dry eye-related tearing). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)?

Common symptoms include Constant watery or teary eyes, Tears running down cheeks, Blurred vision from excess tears, Crusty eyelids or discharge, Frequent need to wipe eyes. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)?

University Hills residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Constant watery or teary eyes
  • Tears running down cheeks
  • Blurred vision from excess tears
  • Crusty eyelids or discharge
  • Frequent need to wipe eyes
  • Redness and irritation
  • Mucus buildup in corner of eye

How is Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) treated?

Treatment for University Hills patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

Artificial tears for reflex tearing
Allergy eye drops
Warm compresses and massage
Punctal plugs (for dry eye-related tearing)
Tear duct probing and irrigation
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery
Ectropion or entropion repair

Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) FAQs for University Hills Patients

Common questions from University Hills patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose excessive tearing (epiphora) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. University Hills patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for excessive tearing (epiphora) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each University Hills patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from University Hills, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for excessive tearing (epiphora) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) Care for University Hills Residents

University Hills patients seeking care for excessive tearing (epiphora) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About University Hills

Academic community surrounding UC Irvine

Population: 15,000+

University studentsFaculty and staffGraduate studentsInternational students

Languages Spoken in University Hills

Our practice serves the diverse University Hills community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishMandarinKoreanVietnameseFarsi

Eye Health Priorities for University Hills

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near University Hills Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for University Hills patients living near:

University of California, Irvine
UCI Medical Center
Aldrich Park
University Town Center

Getting to Our Office from University Hills

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
6.7 mi

University Hills patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

University Hills Neighborhoods We Serve

  • University Park
  • UCI Campus Area

Zip codes: 92617

Why University Hills Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Excessive Tearing (Epiphora)

Corneal Specialty Practice

Dr. Bonakdar has 35+ years treating corneal conditions including excessive tearing (epiphora), with advanced slit lamp and topography diagnostics.

Scleral Lens Expertise

Custom scleral and specialty contact lens fittings for irregular corneas, dry eye, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Same-Day Urgent Visits

University Hills patients with acute corneal symptoms can often be seen the same day for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Coordinated Surgical Care

When corneal surgery is needed, we coordinate with top corneal surgeons and manage your complete pre- and post-operative care.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) Specialist in University Hills

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating excessive tearing (epiphora) and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from University Hills

See why your neighbors in University Hills trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Excessive Tearing (Epiphora) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for University Hills and Orange County residents.