If a pterygium continues growing it could cover the cornea and cause astigmatism and reduced vision. In hot and windy weather it becomes inflamed, causing your eye to become scratchy and uncomfortable.
While some cases can be treated with medication, more severe cases require surgery to remove the growth. Dr Olivia Read has performed a large number of successful pterygium surgeries in her years as an ophthalmologist.
What happens during pterygium surgery?
This is a fairly minor procedure, and is performed in the day theatre under conscious sedation. The eye surgeon will take around 30 minutes to complete the surgery depending on the severity of the case.
Your surgeon will remove the abnormal tissue, and then suture or glue (using Tisseel fibrin glue) a graft into the space. The graft is taken from another area on the same eye. Grafting has been shown to reduce the recurrence rate of the pterygium significantly.
If the flap is stitched, it may cause some scratchiness and discomfort for a couple of weeks before the stitches dissolve.
How long does it take to recover from pterygium surgery?
The eye heals rapidly after pterygium surgery. Patients are usually able to return to work after two days. The adhesive used to secure the graft will dissolve within a week, and over a period of two to four weeks, the eye will return to normal without any traces of redness or irritation.
Can pterygium come back?
Unfortunately, there is still a small risk of the pterygium recurring. However, this risk is lowered significantly with good surgical technique and the use of a flap or graft in the space where the pterygium was removed.
Can you prevent a pterygium from developing?
If you live in a dry, hot climate and are exposed to UV rays then you are at a higher risk of developing a pterygium.
To help prevent growth, wear UV-protective sunglasses everyday, even on overcast days, and when you’re driving in your car. Wear a hat when you’re outdoors, and keep your eyes moist with eyedrops if you’re in a very dry climate.
Can a pterygium go away by itself?
Occasionally, small pterygiums can disappear by themselves. The growths may leave very small scars on the eye’s surface but these don’t affect the patient’s vision. Your ophthalmologist will assess your specific pterygium and advise you on whether or not to treat it with medication or surgery.
