A Pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva that can grow in a wing shape across the cornea (clear window at the front of the eye).

Pterygia are quite common in Western Australia due to high UV exposure from the sun. Often referred to as “surfer’s eye,” this condition affects individuals who spend extended periods outdoors, especially in sunny environments.

The most common treatment for a pterygium is surgical excision.

Surgery is usually recommended if:

  • It affects your vision
  • It causes grittiness, pain, irritation or redness
  • Your pterygium is progressively enlarging, as it can eventually interfere with your vision and cause scarring
  • If it is changing the shape of your cornea, especially before cataract surgery is planned

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What can I expect during surgery?

Pterygium surgery is day surgery performed under local anaesthetic with light sedation.

The procedure involves removal of the pterygium from the conjunctive and cornea. A graft will be taken from unaffected conjunctiva (usually under the upper lid) and glued in place using a special tissue glue. This greatly reduces the chance of the pterygium growing back.

During the surgery you will not see any instruments near your eye or feel any pain after the anaesthetic has numbed the eye.

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.

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What can I expect after surgery?

You should expect to stay at the day surgery for at least 2 hours to allow for post-operative recovery. We recommend that you have someone with you to drive you home.

Most people need a to take up to a week off work to recover however are able to return to normal life and driving quite quickly.  You will be given eye drops to use for four weeks after the surgery.