A pinguecula is a common, typically harmless growth on the eye’s surface. While removal is possible, it’s not always necessary. The decision often depends on the symptoms it causes and its impact on daily life.
What is a Pinguecula?
A pinguecula appears as a yellowish patch or bump on the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. These growths are non-cancerous and usually form on the side of the eye closest to the nose, though they can also appear on the other side. While a pinguecula remains on the white part of the eye and does not grow onto the cornea, it differs from a pterygium, which is a more aggressive growth that can extend over the cornea and potentially affect vision. Pingueculae are common, particularly in middle-aged and older individuals, and generally do not disappear on their own.
Reasons for Removal
Most pingueculae do not require removal; however, certain symptoms may prompt surgery. Chronic irritation, redness, and a foreign body sensation are common reasons. This discomfort can affect daily activities.
Interference with contact lens wear is another reason, as the raised growth can make lenses uncomfortable or impossible to use. If conservative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms, or if the growth causes significant cosmetic concern, surgical removal becomes an option. In rare instances, if a pinguecula grows very large or affects the cornea’s curvature, removal might be considered to prevent vision changes.
How Pinguecula is Removed
Surgical removal of a pinguecula is typically an outpatient procedure performed by an ophthalmologist. The procedure involves local anesthesia to numb the eye. The surgeon excises the growth from the eye’s surface.
To reduce the chance of recurrence, a conjunctival autograft is often used. This involves taking a small piece of healthy conjunctival tissue from another part of the patient’s eye and securing it over the removed area. The graft can be secured with fine sutures or a biological tissue adhesive like fibrin glue. Amniotic membrane grafting is another technique used to enhance healing and prevent recurrence.
After the Removal Procedure
Following pinguecula removal, patients can expect a recovery period with post-operative care. Eye drops, including antibiotics to prevent infection and anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling and discomfort, are prescribed for several weeks to months. An eye patch may be worn temporarily after surgery to protect the eye.
Mild redness, irritation, or a gritty sensation are common during healing. Full recovery typically takes several weeks to about a month, with patients often able to resume normal activities, such as driving, within a few days. While removal can be effective, recurrence is possible, particularly if the eye continues to be exposed to environmental irritants like UV light, wind, or dust.
Managing Pinguecula Without Surgery
Many pingueculae do not require surgical intervention and can be managed with non-surgical approaches. Lubricating eye drops are a primary treatment, helping to alleviate dryness, irritation, and the sensation of having something in the eye. Protecting the eyes from environmental factors is also important. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can shield the eyes from harmful UV light, a significant factor in the growth’s development and irritation. Avoiding exposure to wind and dust by wearing protective eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses or goggles, can further reduce irritation and help prevent the growth from worsening or becoming symptomatic.