Pterygium

What is pterygium?
Pterygium is a dense, fibrous, non-cancerous growth on top of a clear, thin membrane that lies over the white part of the eye called the sclera. It is a term used to describe the condition of hazy vision usually caused by over-exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays or environmental irritants like dust and wind.

Pterygium cannot be cured with glasses or contacts and can sometimes be confused with cataracts, but requires different treatment. Pterygium is seen mostly in people that either work outside or are often outdoors for long periods of time. It usually forms on one or both of the eyes, and can come from one or both corners of the eye. It is a growth caused by overexposure to the earth’s natural elements.

Treatment of pterygium
At Kleiman | Evangelista Eye Center, the removal of pterygium is a simple, in-office procedure that only takes about 10 minutes to perform. Doctors will administer a local anesthetic to help the patient remain comfortable throughout the rest of the procedure. The patient will receive antibiotic ointment and a patch for the eye, which should be worn overnight. The patient will be required to return to our office the day after his or her procedure for follow-up treatment. There is very little downtime associated with pterygium removal, with most patients able to return to work and normal activities the next day. Your doctor will advise you on future follow-up visits and further treatment needs.

Effects of pterygium
After the pterygium procedure, the patient may experience some redness and irritation, for which your doctor will prescribe medication to soothe any discomfort.

If left untreated, the pterygium growth will most likely continue to the point that it will take over a significant part of the cornea, at which time the patient’s vision will be almost completely blocked. Success rates with pterygium removal at Kleiman | Evangelista Eye Center are typically very high, although there is a slight chance the pterygium may grow back following removal. You surgeon will discuss this and other risks, benefits and alternatives with you prior to your procedure.

If you are suffering from redness, irritation and blurry vision and are unable to find relief from glasses and contacts, you may be a candidate for pterygium removal. Call today to schedule your free consultation. 1-800-714-2020.