UltraVision Laser Eye Surgery in San Antonio, TX

If you spend a lot of time outside basking in the South Texas sun, you may be at a greater risk of developing a pterygium, which is a benign growth that forms on your eye. Also known as surfer’s eye, a pterygium is a triangular fold of tissue that grows on the white of your eye. Pterygia can eventually grow over your cornea and impair your vision. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, dust, wind, and low humidity may increase your risk of developing these benign growths.

What are the symptoms of a pterygium?

Pterygium symptoms vary, and they can be mild or severe. Common symptoms include:● Red, itchy eye● Yellow growth or spot on the white of your eye● Feeling like you have dust or sand in your eye● Blurry vision
If you notice a strange growth on the white of your eye, call the eye specialists at UltraVision so they can provide an expert diagnosis and treatment plan.

How is a pterygium treated?

If your pterygium is small and isn’t bothering you, you may not need treatment. However, to help improve symptoms such as dry, red, or itchy eyes, your UltraVision eye care expert may prescribe an eye lubricant to keep your eye moist. A steroid eye drop may also be recommended to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

If your pterygium is large and affects your vision, your eye care expert may recommend surgery.

What can I expect during pterygium surgery?

Removal of your pterygium is a fairly quick and routine procedure. Your UltraVision eye surgeon begins by applying a topical anesthetic to the surface of your eye, then your eyelid is kept open with a speculum as the surgeon removes the growth.

Your surgeon uses a conjunctival autograft, or transplant, that comes from the inside of your upper eyelid to cover the area where the pterygium was removed. To improve healing and recovery, your UltraVision eye surgeon uses a tissue adhesive when attaching the autograft.

After surgery, you need to wear an eye patch for up to a day to protect your eye, after which you should be able to return to your usual activities.

Will my pterygium grow back?

The autograft placed during the surgical procedure helps to prevent regrowth of your pterygium. Limiting sun exposure and protecting your eyes from dust and wind may also reduce the risk of a regrowth.

For management of all your eye health concerns, call the experts at UltraVision or schedule an appointment online.