When it comes to conjunctival naevus removal, many people question whether it’s a cosmetic or medical procedure. This article aims to answer that question, delving into the various aspects involved in this procedure. It will offer an in-depth look at conjunctival naevus, its removal, and the factors that categorize it as either a cosmetic or medical procedure.
Understanding Conjunctival Naevus
A conjunctival naevus is a common type of eye lesion that occurs on the conjunctiva – the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner side of the eyelids. It is typically benign (non-cancerous) and presents as a pigmented or non-pigmented lesion. Conjunctival naevi can occur at any age but are usually detected in childhood or adolescence.
Most of the time, conjunctival naevi do not cause discomfort or affect vision. However, they can sometimes be a cause of concern due to their appearance or potential to turn into a malignant melanoma, a type of eye cancer.
Why Consider Conjunctival Naevus Removal?
Conjunctival naevus removal can be considered for various reasons, both medical and cosmetic. From a medical perspective, a conjunctival naevus may need to be removed if it shows signs of becoming malignant or if it causes discomfort. Symptoms such as change in size, shape or color, presence of blood vessels within the naevus, or inflammation could indicate a malignant transformation.
From a cosmetic perspective, individuals might opt for conjunctival naevus removal if they are self-conscious about the appearance of the naevus. Although a conjunctival naevus is typically not a health threat, its presence can still impact an individual’s self-esteem and confidence, especially if it is large or prominently visible.
Conjunctival Naevus Removal Procedure
The procedure to remove a conjunctival naevus is typically performed by an ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic surgery. It can be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s comfort and the complexity of the case. The surgeon carefully excises the naevus and then closes the incision with sutures. The removed tissue is usually sent for histopathological examination to rule out any malignancy.
Risks and Recovery
Like any surgical procedure, conjunctival naevus removal carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and changes in vision. However, these risks are generally low, and the procedure is considered safe when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Recovery after the procedure is typically swift. Patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or swelling, which usually subsides within a few days. Complete healing typically occurs within a few weeks. During the recovery period, patients are advised to avoid rubbing their eyes and to wear sunglasses to protect the eye from sunlight and dust.
Conjunctival Naevus Removal vs. Blepharoplasty
While conjunctival naevus removal is a procedure that targets a specific lesion on the eye, blepharoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that aims to improve the appearance of the eyelids. Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper lids to remove excess sagging skin or on the lower lids to remove bags under the eyes.
Though both procedures aim to improve the eye’s appearance, they serve different purposes and are performed differently. Therefore, the choice between conjunctival naevus removal and blepharoplasty depends on the individual’s specific needs and concerns.
Conclusion
To conclude, whether conjunctival naevus removal is considered a cosmetic or medical procedure depends on the individual case. If the naevus poses a health risk or causes discomfort, its removal is viewed as a medical procedure. However, if the primary reason for its removal is to improve appearance, it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Regardless, the decision to undergo the procedure should be made after thorough consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist.
FAQs
- Can a conjunctival naevus turn into cancer?
While most conjunctival naevi are benign, there is a small risk that they can evolve into malignant melanoma. Regular monitoring is recommended to detect any changes early.
- Does conjunctival naevus removal hurt?
The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. Post-procedure, there may be some discomfort, but it is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Can a conjunctival naevus come back after removal?
While rare, there is a possibility of recurrence after removal. Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is important to monitor for any signs of recurrence.
