R R

What Is a Blister on the Eye (Conjunctival Cyst)?

A blister on the eye, also called a conjunctival cyst, is a small fluid-filled sac that appears on the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. It often looks like a transparent or slightly yellow bump on the surface. Most cysts are harmless and painless but can cause mild irritation or a sensation of something in the eye. They can occur in one or both eyes and may change in size over time.

Link to This Resource Page

Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.

To display this...

What Is a Blister on the Eye (Conjunctival Cyst)?

A blister on the eye, also called a conjunctival cyst, is a small fluid-filled sac that appears on the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye. It often looks like a transparent or slightly yellow bump on the surface. Most cysts are harmless and painless but can cause mild irritation or a sensation of something in the eye. They can occur in one or both eyes and may change in size over time.

read more about blister on the eye conjunctival cyst ...

Copy this HTML:

Copy HTML Copied!

How Does a Conjunctival Cyst Form?

A conjunctival cyst forms when tissue or fluid becomes trapped beneath the eye's surface membrane. This can result from minor eye injuries, inflammation, or previous infections. Some cysts appear after surgery or develop spontaneously without an obvious cause. The cyst may stay stable, shrink, or occasionally increase in size.

What Causes a Conjunctival Cyst?

These cysts can develop from allergic reactions, infections, or blocked glands. Frequent eye rubbing and improper contact lens use can also contribute. Sometimes, leftover tissue from a previous eye condition traps fluid and forms a cyst. The condition can affect both children and adults.

What Are the Symptoms of a Conjunctival Cyst?

Common symptoms include mild redness, discomfort, or a feeling of grittiness in the eye. The cyst is often painless but may be visible when blinking. Larger cysts can blur vision slightly or cause dryness if they affect tear flow. Some cysts clear up naturally without treatment.

How Is a Conjunctival Cyst Treated?

  • Small cysts that do not cause discomfort can resolve on their own.
  • Artificial tears help relieve irritation and dryness.
  • Eye doctors may drain larger cysts if they interfere with comfort or vision.
  • Avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent irritation or recurrence.

When to Get Checked

A small, fluid-filled bump on the eye's surface should always be checked by an eye doctor. While many conjunctival cysts are harmless, some can grow or cause irritation. Timely evaluation helps determine if treatment or removal is needed to restore comfort. Protecting your eyes from injury and keeping them clean can also help prevent cyst formation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pop or drain a conjunctival cyst at home?

No, popping a cyst at home can scratch the eye surface and raise infection risk. Even a small bump can sit close to delicate tissue. An eye doctor can confirm the diagnosis and drain it safely if needed. Home care usually focuses on comfort and avoiding irritation.

How can I tell a conjunctival cyst from a stye?

A conjunctival cyst sits on the clear membrane over the white of the eye and often looks like a clear bubble. A stye usually forms on the eyelid margin and can feel tender like a pimple. Location is often the biggest clue. An exam can confirm the cause if the bump is new or growing.

Do conjunctival cysts come back after going away?

Recurrence can happen, especially if irritation triggers keep happening, like rubbing or contact lens misuse. Some cysts shrink on their own, then return later. Treating the trigger and keeping the eye surface calm can reduce recurrence. A doctor can discuss removal options if cysts keep returning.

What does treatment or removal feel like?

Small cysts often need only lubricating drops for comfort. If drainage is needed, numbing drops are used so the procedure is usually quick and tolerable. Mild scratchy feeling can happen afterward for a short time. Follow-up care helps reduce irritation and lowers the chance of return.

References

1. Conjunctival Cyst. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/conjunctival-cyst. Accessed January 15, 2026.

2. Conjunctival Cysts. Merck Manual Consumer Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/eye-disorders/conjunctival-and-scleral-disorders/conjunctival-cysts. Accessed January 15, 2026.

3. Conjunctival Inclusion Cyst. American Academy of Ophthalmology EyeWiki. https://eyewiki.aao.org/Conjunctival_Inclusion_Cyst. Accessed January 15, 2026.

4. Marsupialization of Conjunctival Inclusion Cyst in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10577827/. Accessed January 15, 2026.

5. Conjunctival Cyst (Conjunctival Retention Cyst). Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. https://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctival-cyst. Accessed January 15, 2026.

6. Eye Problems Stye and Chalazion. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001006.htm. Accessed January 15, 2026.