A conjunctival cyst (inclusion cyst) is a benign, fluid-filled cavity on the conjunctiva — the transparent tissue that covers the white part of the eye. It occurs when conjunctival cells lock themselves in and continue to produce fluid.
- Congenital (present from birth)
- After eye surgery
- After injuries or irritation of the conjunctiva
- After inflammation (e.g. conjunctivitis)
- Due to friction or chronic mechanical stress
Reasons for surgical removal
It makes sense to distance yourself from the following green areas:
- Causes a foreign body sensation
- Visibly Disrupts or Is Cosmetically Noticeable
- Gets Bigger or Hinders the Eye When Moving
- Triggers Irritation or Increased Dryness
- Exerts pressure on surrounding structures
- Returns repeatedly after punctures
Operation process
- The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia (drops or injections)
- The cyst is completely removed under a surgical microscope without injuring it so that it does not come back
- If necessary, the conjunctiva is closed with small self-dissolving sutures
- After That, an Antibiotic and Anti-Inflammatory Ointment Is Given
- Healing usually only takes a few days
Risks
The removal of a conjunctival cyst is a small, usually very safe procedure. However, as with any operation, risks can arise:
- Recurrence of the cyst when small remnants of the cyst wall remain
- Irritation or redness of the eye in the first few days
- Infection (rare)
- Bleeding or Small Bruises on the Conjunctiva
- Scarring on the Conjunctiva (usually inconspicuous)
- Feeling dry or foreign body during healing
- Very rare: minor eye mobility restrictions if the cyst was deep
Common questions (FAQ)
Does the operation hurt?
No The Eye is anesthetized with drops or a small syringe. At most, you feel a little pressure, but no pain.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually just 10-20 minutes.
Can the cyst go away by itself?
Small cysts can regress, larger ones usually persist and can continue to grow.
Will I see worse after surgery?
No vision remains normal; blurred vision may only occur for a short time due to irritation, lacrimation or eye ointment.
When will I be socially acceptable again?
For smaller cyses, usually the next day. Larger cysts can cause bleeding under the conjunctiva; this blood dissolves again after one to two weeks.
Can I work or drive a car after the operation?
Yes, as soon as vision is clear and you feel comfortable. This is usually the case the next day or the day after that.
Can the cyst come back?
Yes, but rarely. The risk is higher if the cyst wall was injured during surgery.
Do you have to remove stitches?
No if seams are necessary, they will dissolve by themselves. This can take several weeks.
Do I have to take special drops after surgery?
Yes Usually an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory ointment or drops for a few days.
Sources: eyewiki.org
