A conjunctival naevus, also known as a pigmented mole, is a benign growth that develops on the surface of the eye, specifically the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eyeball. While most conjunctival naevi are harmless, they may cause concern for patients due to their appearance or the potential, though rare, for them to develop into malignant melanoma. In cases where the naevus causes cosmetic concern or is suspected to be growing or changing, removal may be considered. In London, advanced techniques for conjunctival Conjunctival Naevus Removal naevus removal are available, offering effective treatment and peace of mind for patients.
What is a Conjunctival Naevus?
A conjunctival naevus is a pigmented spot that forms in the conjunctiva, typically appearing as a brown, black, or yellowish patch. It is most commonly seen in young adults, although it can occur at any age. These naevi are often asymptomatic, meaning they don’t cause any discomfort, pain, or vision problems. They may vary in size, shape, and color, and are usually diagnosed during a routine eye examination by an ophthalmologist.
While most conjunctival naevi are benign, it is essential to monitor any changes in the naevus, as there is a slight risk (approximately 1 in 1,000) that it could develop into a malignant form, such as ocular melanoma. In such cases, removal of the naevus is recommended for both cosmetic and medical reasons.
Reasons for Removal of a Conjunctival Naevus
There are several reasons why a patient may opt to have a conjunctival naevus removed:
- Cosmetic Concerns: If the naevus is located in a visible area of the eye, such as near the cornea or the iris, it may affect the patient’s appearance. For individuals who are self-conscious about the appearance of the eye, removing the naevus can improve confidence.
- Suspicion of Malignancy: Although rare, any change in size, shape, or color of a conjunctival naevus can raise concerns about the development of ocular melanoma. If there are signs of abnormal growth or irregular pigmentation, an ophthalmologist may recommend removal and biopsy to rule out cancer.
- Discomfort or Irritation: In some cases, the naevus may cause irritation or a foreign body sensation, particularly if it rubs against the eyelid or other parts of the eye. If this occurs, removal may be considered to relieve discomfort.
- Preventing Complications: Occasionally, a conjunctival naevus may lead to more serious complications, such as astigmatism if it causes a distortion in the curvature of the cornea. Removal may prevent further vision-related issues.
Conjunctival Naevus Removal Procedure
Conjunctival naevus removal is typically a simple and safe procedure. In London, the surgery is performed by an experienced ophthalmologist in a hospital or private clinic setting. Here’s what the procedure generally involves:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the eye, ensuring that the patient does not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. The patient may be awake during the surgery, but the area surrounding the eye will be completely numb.
- Excision of the Naevus: The surgeon will carefully remove the naevus from the conjunctiva using specialized surgical tools. The procedure is usually quick, taking around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and location of the naevus.
- Sutures: In some cases, the surgeon may need to place a few sutures to close the incision. These stitches are typically dissolvable and will disappear on their own over time.
- Post-Surgery Care: After the surgery, patients are typically advised to rest and avoid rubbing the eye. An eye patch or shield may be recommended for a short time to protect the area. Patients may also be prescribed eye drops to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Recovery After Conjunctival Naevus Removal
The recovery process after conjunctival naevus removal is generally straightforward and relatively quick. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, although they should avoid strenuous physical activities or swimming for at least a week to allow the eye to heal.
Here’s what to expect during recovery:
- Discomfort: Some mild discomfort, such as a foreign body sensation or slight irritation, may occur after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken to alleviate this discomfort.
- Swelling and Redness: Swelling and redness around the eye are common after the procedure and usually subside within a few days.
- Follow-Up Appointments: A follow-up appointment with the ophthalmologist will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications. The surgeon will also check the removed tissue to confirm that it was benign and there is no sign of malignancy.
Choosing a Specialist for Conjunctival Naevus Removal in London
When choosing a specialist for conjunctival naevus removal in London, it’s essential to select an experienced ophthalmologist with a track record of successful surgeries. London is home to many world-renowned eye care professionals and private clinics offering expert services.
Here are some tips for choosing the right specialist:
- Qualifications and Experience: Ensure the surgeon is qualified and has extensive experience in ocular surgery, specifically conjunctival naevus excision.
- Consultation: Book a consultation to discuss your concerns and explore the options available for removal. A good surgeon will explain the procedure in detail and provide clear information about the expected outcomes and risks.
- Patient Reviews: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get an idea of the level of care and service provided by the clinic or specialist.
- Facilities and Technology: Choose a clinic that uses state-of-the-art surgical equipment and offers a comfortable, patient-focused environment.
Conjunctival naevus removal in London is a safe and effective way to address cosmetic concerns, potential malignancy, or discomfort caused by a pigmented growth on the eye. With experienced ophthalmologists and advanced surgical techniques available in the city, patients can expect excellent outcomes and a smooth recovery process. If you have a conjunctival naevus that you are concerned about, it’s important to consult with a specialist to discuss your options and ensure the best possible care.