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Pterygium

What is a Pterygium?

A pterygium is a triangular “wing”-like growth over the cornea, the front part of the eye. In general, it is associated with exposure to UV light, wind/dust damage to the surface of the eye. They are generally benign, however they can be irritating and can affect your vision.

Symptoms you may feel from a pterygium:

  • scratchy, foreign-body-sensation
  • changing astigmatism in your glasses
  • being unable to wear contact lenses
  • decreased vision
  • decreased field of view

Pterygium Treatment & Advanced Removal

The approach to pterygium (surfer’s eye) depends on the size of the growth and its impact on your vision. At our practice, we prioritize long-term success through stitch-free surgical innovation.

Management & Symptoms

Advanced Surgical Intervention

Surgery is recommended when a pterygium shows progressive growth or chronic irritation. Our surgeons utilize an elite, stitch-free technique designed for rapid healing and the lowest possible recurrence rates:

  • Precise Removal: The abnormal tissue is carefully cleared from the ocular surface.
  • Sutureless Grafting: We utilize either a conjunctival autograft or a preserved amniotic membrane.
  • Medical Adhesive: High-grade ophthalmic glue is used instead of traditional stitches, significantly increasing patient comfort and procedural success.

What can I expect with Pterygium surgery?

Your doctor will remove the pterygium from the eye in an operating room. Afterwards, an eyepatch is placed over the eye, which is removed the next day. Your vision may be a little blurry and distorted for about five days surgery. You may also have a scratchy sensation, or a foreign body sensation for approximately two weeks, though it may persist for up to a month. Your eye may be tearing for a few weeks after surgery, which helps to keep the eye moist and promote an optimal healing environment.  As the pterygium may cause blurry vision, this is expected to improve after surgery, and as such, your glasses prescription may change.

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