Eyeball Polyps: Symptoms, Treatment, and Contact Lens Safety - Ophthalmology

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Pterygium on the eye?


Hello, I have something on my eyeball that resembles a conjunctival cyst or a pterygium, looking like a white polyp with faint pinkish blood vessels.
It is located on the outer part of the sclera, adhering to the lower inner eyelid.
I generally don't feel anything, and I have had it since birth without any noticeable growth.
I would like to know if I can wear contact lenses with this condition, or if I should seek evaluation at a clinic or a hospital.
Should I consider surgery? I apologize if I have already submitted this question previously.

Chen Sen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, this may be a cyst or pterygium on the surface of the eye, which is a growth that forms on the eyeball or conjunctiva and is usually benign.
However, a definitive diagnosis requires an examination by an ophthalmologist to rule out other possibilities and to determine if further intervention is necessary.
Regarding your question, wearing contact lenses may be affected by this cyst or pterygium, potentially causing discomfort or impacting the stability of the lenses.
Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an ophthalmologist before considering wearing contact lenses to assess whether this growth affects your vision and eye health.
The ophthalmologist may recommend monitoring the cyst or pterygium, and if it does not pose any visual problems and does not cause discomfort, specific treatment is usually not required.
However, if the growth enlarges or causes visual issues, the doctor may suggest further treatment, which could include surgery.
In summary, it is recommended that you see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible for a professional assessment of your condition and to receive appropriate advice and treatment options.

Reply Date: 2024/05/15

More Info


Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing some concerns regarding a growth on your eyeball that resembles a conjunctival cyst or pterygium, which is a type of benign growth that can occur on the eye. These growths can appear as white or pinkish lesions and may have small blood vessels associated with them. While you mentioned that you do not feel any discomfort and that the growth has not changed in size, it is still important to address your questions regarding contact lens safety and whether you should seek further evaluation.

Firstly, regarding the use of contact lenses: Generally, if you have a benign growth like a conjunctival cyst or pterygium, you may still be able to wear contact lenses. However, it is crucial to ensure that the growth does not interfere with the proper fit of the lenses or cause irritation. If the growth is located in a position that could potentially rub against the lens or cause discomfort, it may be advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses until you have consulted with an eye care professional.
It is always a good idea to have any new or existing growths on the eye evaluated by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can perform a thorough examination to determine the nature of the growth and whether it poses any risks to your eye health. If the growth is indeed benign and not causing any issues, your doctor may recommend monitoring it over time. However, if there are any changes in size, color, or if you start to experience discomfort, it may require further intervention.

As for the possibility of surgery, this is typically reserved for cases where the growth is causing problems such as vision obstruction, irritation, or cosmetic concerns. If the growth is stable and asymptomatic, surgery may not be necessary. Your eye care provider will be able to give you the best advice based on a comprehensive examination.

In terms of symptoms to watch for, if you notice any changes such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or changes in vision, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of complications that may require immediate care.

In summary, while it may be possible to wear contact lenses with a benign growth on your eye, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional for a proper evaluation. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and ensure that your eye health is maintained. Regular check-ups are also important, especially if you have any concerns about changes in your eye condition. Thank you for your question, and I hope this information helps you feel more informed about your eye health!

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