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Pterygium Surgery
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Pterygium Surgery: Treating Surfer’s Eye
Also known as surfer’s eye, pterygium is a growth on the cornea, the window of the eye. Not typically a serious condition, it does however have the potential to distort your vision—if it approaches the pupil center—by altering the surface of your cornea, leading to astigmatism. Pterygium also causes eye redness and irritation.
Condition Treated
Pterygium
A Pterygium (surfer’s eye) is a growth that starts on the clear tissue of the eye (conjunctiva) and spreads over the cornea, the crystal clear window of the eye that covers the colored part of the eye (iris). It is more common in people who spend a lot of time in the sun. It may cause irritation and possibly affect vision. Pterygiums can be surgically removed.
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Common Questions About Pterygium Surgery
Does pterygium require surgery?
Pterygium that causes mild irritation or eye redness, can usually be treated with steroid drops, artificial tears, or a prescribed ointment. Once the pterygium growth threatens or interferes with your vision, the pterygium must be surgically removed.
Is pterygium surgery permanent?
The technique used by NVISION surgeons significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. It can also be greatly diminished by protecting your eyes from the sun. Eye protection from dust and wind is also strongly recommended to avoid future irritation. However, there is always the possibility that the pterygium might recur.
What is a pterygium and what causes it?
A pterygium is a fleshy growth that extends from the conjunctiva (the transparent layer that covers the sclera, the white part of the eye) over the cornea, the clear window of the eye that is the same size as the iris, the colored part of the eye. It is caused by long-term sun exposure without UV-filtering sunglasses.
What is the difference between a pterygium and a pinguecula?
A pterygium is a growth over the cornea, while a pinguecula is a fleshy growth in the conjunctiva (the transparent layer that covers the sclera, the white part of the eye). A pinguecula does not grow over the cornea.
Why is it called surfer's eye?
It is called surfer’s eye because surfers are typically in the sun and exposed to UV light, both directly from the sun and reflected off the water. That intense UV exposure is what causes a pterygium to develop.
Can a pterygium affect my vision?
Yes, a pterygium can affect your vision if it advances over the cornea and comes close to the pupil.
When does a pterygium need to be removed?
Pterygium surgery is recommended if your eye is constantly irritated and red, if the pterygium is cosmetically bothersome, or if it is affecting your vision.
Can a pterygium be treated without surgery?
The only way to remove a pterygium is with surgery. Topical medications can reduce the redness and irritation it causes, but none of these conservative treatments are a cure.
Is pterygium surgery covered by insurance?
Generally, yes. Coverage depends on the reason for treatment and your insurance plan’s specific policy.
How much does pterygium surgery cost?
The cost can vary depending on the surgeon and the facility where the procedure is performed.
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