What to Expect Before, During, and After Pterygium Surgery

A pterygium is a benign tissue growth that usually starts out in the corner of the eye and can expand over the cornea.

It is often referred to as “surfer’s eye” because it usually occurs in individuals who live in sunny climates and spend a lot of time outdoors. Surfers are at higher risk because they spend long hours outside with the bright sunlight reflecting off of the water.

Many people who develop a pterygium will experience an itchy or burning sensation. Pterygiums often become irritated and cause the eye to become red and inflamed, which can result in pterygium surgery.

The Ins and Outs of Pterygium Surgery

There are several ways to treat pterygiums in order to prevent scarring and vision loss. However, in severe cases, surgery may be required. Let’s look at what you can expect before, during, and after pterygium surgery.

Surgery to remove a pterygium is minimally invasive and fairly quick — the entire procedure should take less than 30 minutes. You’ll be sedated prior to surgery and your eyes will be completely numb.

Your doctor will remove the pterygium and replace it with a graft of tissue. The graft of tissue will help minimize the likelihood of the pterygium returning.

Due to the mild sedation, you’ll be unable to drive yourself home after the surgery. So you should arrange to have a friend or family member there to take you home.

Conclusion

A pterygium removal is a fairly low-risk surgery but there is a chance of swelling and infection. Some soreness is to be expected in the first week immediately following surgery. And you may experience redness in your eye for the first couple weeks.

After your surgery, it is very important to follow up with your doctor. Your doctor can monitor the progress of the healing and be on the lookout for any signs of infection. 

If you have been diagnosed with a pterygium and are wanting to learn more about your treatment options, contact our office today to learn more.