A pterygium is a benign growth on the thin conjunctiva of the eye. Also known as “surfer’s eye,” a pterygium is shaped like a triangle. While not dangerous right away, this growth can affect eye health and vision over time. In some cases, patients opt to undergo pterygium surgery to correct the issue.
Here’s more on this common treatment option-pterygium surgery.
What Causes a Pterygium on the Eye?
A pterygium comes from excessive exposure to UV rays, dry eye syndrome, and/or irritation from high winds, dust, and other debris. It is most commonly seen in people who spend a lot of time outdoors, like surfers, fishermen, farmers, etc.
Anyone who lives in a very hot climate–such as near the equator–can develop a pterygium. Also, people over the age of 60 or those exposed to human papillomavirus (HPV) may get this eye health diagnosis.
The growth often forms on the side of the eye closest to the nose. Eventually, it can grow toward the colored iris and onto the cornea itself. It may be flesh-colored, raised, and have noticeable blood vessels.
Symptoms of Pterygium
A pterygium usually is not very painful. However, it causes some eye discomfort and redness. It also leads to blurry vision if it grows large enough to cover the cornea.
Other symptoms include:
- Eye itching
- Burning
- Feeling as though there is something in your eye
If left untreated, this noncancerous eye growth can enlarge in size and in thickness. As such, a pterygium may cause eye infection and extreme irritation.
Finally, it is really vital to get a possible pterygium checked by your ophthalmologist. A pterygium could result in vision problems. Astigmatism and some vision loss could happen when people do not address surfer’s eye.
Treating a Pterygium
A board-certified ophthalmic surgeon is your best resource for education, diagnosis, and treatment of a surfer’s eye. To diagnose the problem, the eye doctor will review your symptoms and do a medical eye exam. This will include a slit lamp exam which lets the eye doctor see how much the pterygium has grown.
From there, your ophthalmologist may recommend different treatment options. These options depend on how severe your pterygium is.
For smaller growths, artificial tears and lubricating eye drops may reduce irritation and discomfort. In more advanced cases, surgical removal of the pterygium may be necessary.
Pterygium Surgery
If your eye doctor believes surgery is right for you, you should understand the following:
- The surgery takes under an hour
- You will be lightly sedated
- Your doctor will remove the growth and cover the area with a piece of your own healthy conjunctiva
- You can go home the same day to rest
- Resume your regular activities as your doctor advises
- Recovery takes about six weeks
- You may need a new prescription for your glasses or contact lenses
Be sure to follow your provider’s instructions carefully. These eye surgeries are highly successful. However, any surgery has risks. The possible side effects of surgery are:
- Eye redness
- Soreness
- Infection
- Increasing pain
- Discharge
- Double vision
- Pterygium begins to grow back
Preventing Pterygium
In addition to seeking treatment with your eye doctor, you can take preventive measures to lower your risk of getting a surfer’s eye. Ensure to wear sunglasses or protective eyewear while working or playing sports outdoors. Avoid harsh weather conditions, such as extreme summer heat and high wind days. Use lubricating eye drops to manage symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
Also, practice good hygiene by keeping your hands and face clean and avoiding rubbing or touching your eyes. Replace contact lenses as recommended.
If you notice any growth in your eye, consult with your eye doctor. A pterygium may not always cause harsh symptoms. Still, it should be monitored by a skilled healthcare provider.
Pterygium Surgery in Miramar, FL
If you’re looking for a top-quality surgical eye center near you, look no further than Miramar Eye Institute. Our experienced physicians use the latest techniques and technologies to effectively remove pterygium while minimizing scarring and preserving vision. Our approach involves careful evaluation of the patient’s unique condition and needs, as well as personalized treatment plans that prioritize safety and comfort.
If you notice problems with your eyesight or think you have symptoms of poor eye health, call us today at (954) 437-4316 or request your visit here.
We look forward to serving you!