Pterygium Surgery - Southwest Eye Institute

A pterygium, also known as “surfer’s eye,” is a condition you might never have heard of until you experience it. These pink or white fleshy growths on the eye’s outer layer are harmless and noncancerous, but they can interfere with your vision.

Common symptoms of pterygium include:

Redness
Blurred vision
Eye irritation and burning sensation
Itchiness and dryness
Inflammation
Foreign body sensation
Excessive tearing
Vision impairment (if the pterygium grows over the cornea)

Learn more about pterygium surgery and other factors surrounding removal and recovery.

What is a Pinguecula?

A similar condition called a pinguecula could grow into a pterygium. Although a pinguecula is typically smaller than a pterygium, it can still cause symptoms and discomfort.

Common symptoms of a pinguecula include:

A small, yellowish patch or bump on the conjunctiva
Red, irritated, itchy, or swollen eyes
Dry eyes
A sensation of sand or grit in the eye
Excessive tearing
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Blurred vision

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your doctor. Addressing a pinguecula early can help prevent it from progressing into a pterygium. The doctors at Southwest Eye Institute are here to provide expert care and guidance to ensure your eye health is well taken care of.

What Is Pterygium Eye Surgery?

When removing pterygium, an ophthalmologist numbs the conjunctiva, the eye’s outermost tissue layer, to excise the abnormal tissue. After removing the pterygium, the doctor patches the area with a graft. This tissue may come from your own eye (typically behind your eyelid in an inconspicuous spot) or be donated from placental tissue.

The surgery usually takes 15 minutes to an hour. If there are no complications, you will be able to return home afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pterygium Surgery

If you’re considering having pterygium removal surgery, read through our FAQ and contact us if you have further questions.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Pterygium Surgery?

The eye usually heals in four to six weeks after this surgery. If your doctor uses glue to secure the tissue graft instead of sutures, your recovery time may be shorter.

During this time, you should follow your doctor’s instructions closely and avoid touching the area or rushing the healing process. You will be given a temporary eye patch or a pad to wear while the area heals.

How Painful Is Pterygium Surgery?

You won’t experience any pain during the surgery as your doctor will apply a local anesthetic to your eye. Many patients are also lightly sedated before the procedure begins, which helps reduce anxiety and discomfort.

Is Pterygium Removal a Major Surgery?

No. A pterygium procedure is considered minor surgery due to the following factors:

It’s minimally invasive due to the small incisions that remove the pterygium and graft new tissue.
The patient receives local (instead of general) anesthesia.
The recovery time is relatively short.

Does Insurance Cover Pterygium Surgery?

Most insurance plans cover pterygium excision. These growths can interfere with vision and, in some cases, cause extreme discomfort. In some cases, insurance will not cover the surgery if the growth is minimal and not causing symptoms. It’s best to check with your insurance company to determine whether they will cover all or part of your surgery.

Get in Touch Today

Though a pterygium is not cancerous, it’s a good idea to have it removed. Over time, these growths can spread and interfere with your vision. Schedule your appointment at Southwest Eye Institute in El Paso today for a thorough examination and compassionate care from our experienced ophthalmologists.