Conjunctival Cyst Swelling and Redness

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A small bump on the white part of your eye can sometimes be a conjunctival cyst. It is usually harmless, but you may notice irritation, watering, or discomfort when blinking. Some cysts need no treatment, while others may need attention if they grow or start affecting your vision.

Causes of Conjunctival Cyst

The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. A conjunctival cyst develops when fluid collects in a small pocket within this tissue.

There are several possible reasons for a cyst to form:

Some conjunctival cysts develop without any clear reason. Others may be present from birth or appear after an eye injury or surgery. An eye specialist can examine the bump and determine whether it is a cyst or another condition.

Treatment for Conjunctival Cyst

A conjunctival cyst does not always need treatment. If it is small and causes no problems, your eye doctor may recommend leaving it alone and checking it if needed.

If the cyst becomes uncomfortable, treatment depends on the cause. Options may include:

Eye drops may relieve irritation, but they do not necessarily make the cyst disappear. Do not squeeze the cyst or try to drain it at home. If you notice a new bump on your eye, have a doctor examine it before using medicated drops.

Symptoms of Conjunctival Cyst

You may not notice a conjunctival cyst until you see a small bump on the white of your eye. Some cysts cause no discomfort, while others become irritating as they grow.

Possible symptoms include:

These symptoms do not always mean you have a conjunctival cyst. If the bump persists or grows, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe eye pain or sudden changes in vision.

How to Remove a Conjunctival Cyst

If a conjunctival cyst does not improve or continues to cause discomfort, your eye doctor may recommend removing it. The procedure depends on the cyst’s size, location, and condition.

Removal may involve the following steps:

The procedure is generally performed without an overnight hospital stay. Your doctor will explain what to expect afterwards and when to return for a checkup. Never attempt to remove the cyst yourself, as this can injure the eye.

Conjunctival Cyst Surgery

Surgery may be recommended when a conjunctival cyst continues to cause irritation, grows larger, or returns after treatment. Your ophthalmologist will examine the eye before deciding whether surgery is necessary.

The doctor may remove the cyst using small surgical instruments under local or topical anaesthesia. Depending on the procedure, you may receive eye drops or ointment afterwards to support recovery and manage inflammation.

The eye may feel mildly irritated for a short time after surgery. Recovery varies by procedure, so follow your doctor’s instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments.

Conclusion

Conjunctival cysts are usually harmless, but some can cause ongoing irritation or discomfort. An eye specialist can confirm the cause of the bump and recommend treatment if needed.