What is a Pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign growth typically associated with increased UV exposure and/or eye irritation.
Prevention starts with sunglasses
The best way to prevent a pterygium is to wear sunglasses when outdoors. Pterygia growth is also associated with chronic eye irritation, so using artificial tears can help.
What a Pterygium Looks Like
Usually begins as a bump growing on the white part of the eye, but increases in size and can eventually grow onto the cornea, and if it grows enough, can affect one’s vision.
Common Questions
What can I do about my pterygia?
For most people with pterygia, nothing necessarily needs to be done. However, if they are progressing onto the cornea and either causing changes in vision or affecting the vision, surgical removal may be indicated. Additionally, if the pterygium gets inflamed and causes recurrent episodes of pain, it can also be removed. Lastly, they can also be removed for cosmetic purposes.
What does surgical removal of the pterygium involve?
Surgical removal of the pterygium involves removal of as much of the pterygium as possible and placing a graft (either from a different spot in the same eye or using a different material) over the site of removal.
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