Pterygium Excision

WHAT IS A PTERYGIUM

A pterygium is a non-cancerous, wedge-shaped growth of tissue on the white part of the eye that can slowly extend onto the cornea, the clear front window of the eye. It is commonly associated with long-term exposure to sunlight, wind, dust, and dry environments. Some people call it a “surfer’s eye.” It may cause redness, irritation, foreign body sensation, blurred vision, and cosmetic concern.

WHAT IS PTERYGIUM EXCISION

Pterygium excision is a minor eye surgery that removes the abnormal tissue from the surface of the eye. The goal is to relieve irritation, improve vision if the growth affects the cornea, and restore a clearer, more comfortable ocular surface. In many cases, the procedure includes placement of a conjunctival graft or membrane graft to reduce the risk of recurrence. This technique is supported by published clinical studies and preferred practice guidelines.

WHO MAY BENEFIT FROM THE PROCEDURE

You may benefit from pterygium excision if you have one or more of the following:

1. Persistent redness, irritation, or discomfort not relieved by medication

2. Blurred or distorted vision from corneal involvement

3. Progressive growth toward the center of the cornea

4. Recurrent inflammation

5. Significant cosmetic concern

HOW THE PROCEDURE IS DONE

Pterygium excision is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.

1. The eye is numbed with anesthetic drops and medication.

2. The pterygium tissue is carefully removed.

3. A thin graft from healthy conjunctiva or a medical membrane is placed over the area.

4. The graft is secured with tissue adhesive or fine sutures.

The procedure typically takes less than one hour. Patients go home the same day.

EXPECTED BENEFITS

Evidence from peer-reviewed studies shows that modern excision techniques with grafting:

1. Reduce eye irritation and redness

2. Improve visual quality when the cornea is affected

3. Lower recurrence rates compared with simple removal alone

4. Improve cosmetic appearance

RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE

Recovery varies per patient, but most people resume light activities within a few days. Eye drops are prescribed to control inflammation and prevent infection. Temporary redness, mild discomfort, and light sensitivity are common during early healing. Follow-up visits are important to monitor recovery and detect recurrence early.

POSSIBLE RISKS AND LIMITATIONS

While generally safe, pterygium excision is still surgery and carries recognized risks. These may include infection, graft displacement, scarring, recurrence of the pterygium, persistent redness, or vision fluctuation. Recurrence rates are significantly reduced with graft techniques but are not zero, especially in patients with continued high UV exposure.

PREVENTION OF RECURRENCE

Long-term protection helps reduce recurrence risk:

1. Regular use of UV-protective sunglasses

2. Use of lubricating eye drops in dry environments

3. Avoidance of excessive sun, wind, and dust exposure

This service is provided using accepted medical and surgical standards and is based on current ophthalmic evidence and clinical best practices.