With a pterygium, your goal for surgery is not only to remove the growth but also to look good afterward. At Omphroy Eye Care, renowned ophthalmologist Luis Omphroy, MD, expertly performs pterygium surgery to restore your eye health while achieving a nice cosmetic result. Dr. Omphroy’s specialized technique also ensures a minimal chance of recurrence. Learn more about this relatively painless way to remove your irritating eye growth by calling the Aiea, Hawaii.
request an appointmentWhat is Pterygium?
Pterygium, commonly referred to as “surfer’s eye,” is a non-cancerous growth that appears on the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye. This fleshy growth can be unsightly and may cause discomfort. Typically, a pterygium grows from the nasal side of the eye (the side closest to the nose), but it can also develop from the temporal side of the eye (the side closest to the ear).
Causes and Risk Factors
Pterygia are often associated with prolonged exposure to UV light, wind, and dust, which is why they are more common in individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors, such as surfers and gardeners. Other factors that may contribute to the development of pterygium include:
- Genetics: A family history of pterygium may increase your risk.
- Age: Older adults are more likely to develop pterygia.
- Environmental Conditions: Living in sunny or windy areas can elevate your chances.
Symptoms
While some people may not experience symptoms, common signs of pterygium include:
- Redness and irritation of the eye
- A visible growth on the conjunctiva
- Blurred or distorted vision if the pterygium encroaches on the cornea
- Dryness and discomfort
Treatment Options
Initial treatment for pterygium may involve conservative measures, including:
- Eye Drops: Anti-inflammatory eye drops can help reduce irritation and redness.
- Protective Eyewear: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help shield your eyes from further damage.
However, when pterygia grow large, become painful, or begin to affect your vision, surgical removal may be necessary.
Surgical Procedure
Pterygium surgery is typically performed as a painless outpatient procedure. Here’s what to expect:
- Preparation: Before surgery, your eye will be numbed using local anesthetic eye drops. You may also be given a sedative to help you relax.
- Surgical Removal: The surgeon will carefully excise the pterygium from the conjunctiva, removing the growth while preserving as much surrounding tissue as possible.
- Graft Placement: In many cases, a small graft from your own tissue (usually taken from the inside of your eyelid) will be placed over the site to promote healing and reduce the chance of recurrence.
- Recovery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort after the procedure, with recovery typically taking a few weeks. You may be prescribed eye drops to help with healing and prevent infection.
Post-Operative Care
After surgery, follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions, which may include:
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a short period
- Using prescribed eye drops to aid healing
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor recovery
Conclusion
If you have a pterygium that is causing discomfort or affecting your vision, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. At Omphroy Eye Care, we specialize in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of pterygium. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your options and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.