Pinguecula Surgery: Indications, Procedure & Recovery

Most pingueculae (benign conjunctival growths) require no treatment. Surgery is considered when:

• Growth encroaches on the visual axis
• Chronic irritation, foreign-body sensation, or inflammation (pingueculitis)
• Contact lens intolerance
• Significant cosmetic concern

Procedure

Outpatient excision under local anesthesia. The growth is dissected from the sclera; conjunctiva may be repositioned or grafted. Duration: 20–30 minutes.

Recovery

• Mild discomfort, redness for 1–2 weeks
• Topical antibiotics/steroids for 1–2 weeks
• Full healing in 3–4 weeks; recurrence possible with UV exposure

Prevention: UV-blocking sunglasses, lubricating drops, hats outdoors.