A conjunctival naevus is a benign, pigmented growth on the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye. While most conjunctival naevi are harmless, they can cause cosmetic concerns, discomfort, or even raise the possibility of malignancy in rare cases. For these reasons, many individuals opt for removal of the naevus. Understanding the process, from before the surgery to the aftercare, can help patients prepare for a smooth experience and recovery.

Before Conjunctival Naevus Removal

Before undergoing conjunctival naevus removal, patients must first consult with an ophthalmologist. The initial consultation is crucial Conjunctival Naevus Removal for determining the nature of the naevus and discussing treatment options. During this appointment, the ophthalmologist will:

  1. Conduct a Thorough Eye Examination: The doctor will examine the naevus to assess its size, location, and characteristics. It’s important to evaluate whether the naevus is changing in appearance, as changes in color, shape, or size may indicate a risk of malignancy. If the naevus is suspected to be malignant, the ophthalmologist may recommend biopsy and further testing.
  2. Assess Overall Eye Health: An ophthalmologist will assess your general eye health, including checking for any other underlying eye conditions that may affect surgery or healing. It’s important to have a clear and healthy eye to ensure the best surgical outcome.
  3. Discuss Surgical Options: If removal is recommended, your surgeon will discuss the various options available. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and the patient is awake during the surgery. The doctor will explain the surgical technique and any potential risks associated with the procedure.
  4. Prepare for Surgery: Before surgery, patients will be advised on how to prepare. This may include refraining from wearing contact lenses for a few days prior to surgery, avoiding certain medications that could increase bleeding risks, or following specific instructions related to food and drink intake if sedation is used.
  5. Set Expectations: Your ophthalmologist will explain the expected outcome of the surgery. The naevus will typically be removed for cosmetic purposes or to rule out any signs of malignancy. Patients will be informed about the potential risks, such as infection, scarring, or changes in vision.

During Conjunctival Naevus Removal Surgery

Conjunctival naevus removal is typically performed on an outpatient basis and is a relatively simple procedure:

  1. Anesthesia: The patient will receive local anesthesia to numb the eye area. This ensures that the procedure is painless. Some patients may also be given a mild sedative to help them relax during the surgery.
  2. Surgical Excision: The surgeon will use fine surgical instruments to remove the naevus from the conjunctiva. The procedure is usually quick, taking 15-30 minutes depending on the size and location of the growth. In some cases, the surgeon may use a laser to remove the naevus with minimal tissue disruption.
  3. Closure of the Surgical Site: Once the naevus is removed, the surgeon may use absorbable sutures to close the incision. These sutures dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed later. The incision is usually very small, and the eye heals quickly.

After Conjunctival Naevus Removal

The recovery process following conjunctival naevus removal is typically straightforward, but there are several important steps patients should follow to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

  1. Post-Surgery Discomfort: After the procedure, some mild discomfort is common. This may include irritation, a foreign body sensation, or slight swelling in the treated eye. Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed eye drops can help manage these symptoms.
  2. Protective Measures: To protect the eye during recovery, your surgeon may recommend wearing an eye shield or patch, especially during sleep. This helps prevent accidental rubbing of the eye, which could interfere with healing.
  3. Managing Swelling and Redness: Some swelling and redness are normal in the days following the procedure. This should subside within a few days to a week. Applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling and provide relief.
  4. Follow-Up Appointments: A follow-up appointment with your ophthalmologist will be scheduled within the first week after surgery. During this visit, the surgeon will check for signs of infection or complications and ensure that the eye is healing properly. If the naevus was removed due to concerns about malignancy, the removed tissue will be sent for biopsy, and the results will be discussed at the follow-up.
  5. Avoiding Certain Activities: Patients should avoid strenuous physical activities, swimming, or rubbing the eyes for at least a week after surgery. This allows the eye to heal without the risk of injury or infection.
  6. Long-Term Recovery and Results: Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, but full recovery may take a few weeks. The treated area may still feel slightly sensitive, but this should improve over time. Once fully healed, the surgical site should be barely noticeable, and the eye will look and feel normal.

Risks and Potential Complications

Although conjunctival naevus removal is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks and potential complications to be aware of:

  1. Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. Following post-surgery care instructions, such as using prescribed antibiotics or eye drops, helps minimize this risk.
  2. Scarring: While the incision is small and typically heals well, there may be slight scarring. In most cases, the scar is hardly noticeable, but in some rare cases, scarring can be more pronounced.
  3. Recurrence: In rare instances, the naevus may reappear. This could happen if the naevus was not completely excised or if it was a deeper growth. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the treated area.
  4. Vision Changes: Although uncommon, some patients may experience changes in vision after surgery. This could occur if the naevus was located near the cornea or if the surgery caused slight distortion in the eye’s shape. However, this is usually temporary.

Conjunctival naevus removal is a relatively simple and safe procedure with a high success rate. By understanding the steps involved before, during, and after the surgery, patients can feel more prepared and confident in their decision to undergo the procedure. With proper care and attention, the majority of patients experience a smooth recovery and can enjoy the cosmetic and health benefits of removing a conjunctival naevus.

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