Pterygium Removal
Pterygium Removal:
A procedure aimed at treating a condition called pterygium, which is a benign growth of tissue that forms on the conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye) and can extend onto the cornea. Pterygia are often referred to as "surfer’s eye" because they are commonly seen in individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny, windy, or dusty environments.
Pterygium Symptoms:
A pterygium can cause various symptoms, including:
Redness or irritation in the eye
A feeling of something being stuck in the eye
Dryness or itching
Blurred vision (if the growth extends onto the cornea and affects the center of the eye)
If left untreated, a pterygium can potentially distort the cornea, leading to astigmatism or affecting vision.
When is Pterygium Removal Needed?
Pterygium removal may be considered in the following situations:
Visual Impairment: If the pterygium is large enough to affect your vision, particularly if it extends onto the cornea.
Persistent Irritation or Discomfort: If the pterygium causes frequent irritation, redness, or a foreign body sensation in the eye that doesn’t respond to other treatments like lubricating eye drops.
Cosmetic Concerns: Some individuals opt for surgery if the growth is cosmetically unappealing, particularly if it's noticeable or bothersome.
Pterygium Removal Procedure:
The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis:
Removal of the Pterygium: The surgeon carefully excises the pterygium, taking care to preserve as much of the surrounding tissue as possible.
Graft Placement (in some cases): After the pterygium is removed, a conjunctival autograft (a small piece of tissue from another part of the conjunctiva) may be used to cover the area where the pterygium was excised. This helps prevent the growth from returning.
Stitches or Glue: In some cases, stitches or special surgical glue are used to secure the graft in place.
Post-Surgery Recovery:
Healing Time: Most patients experience some discomfort, redness, and swelling after surgery, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days to weeks. The recovery time is generally quick, with most people returning to normal activities in about a week.
Medication: Eye drops will be prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent infection during recovery.
Follow-up: You’ll typically have follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure proper healing and check for any recurrence of the pterygium.
Prevention and Aftercare:
After surgery, it's important to follow Dr. Smith’s recommendations carefully to avoid irritation and minimize the risk of recurrence. This includes:
Avoiding Sun Exposure: Pterygium is often caused or worsened by prolonged sun exposure, so wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors is highly recommended.
Using Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can help reduce dryness and irritation, which are common after surgery.
Avoiding Dusty or Windy Environments: Protecting the eyes from harsh environmental factors can help with healing.