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John D. Hofbauer, MD
and Laura E. Fox, MD |
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A pterygium is a fleshy growth, extending from the conjunctiva (white part of the eye) onto the cornea (clear part of the eye). This growth is often inflamed and irritated, and can interfere with vision. The pterygium is often associated with, and aggravated by, dust, chemicals, wind, and sunlight. In mild cases, symptoms can be relieved by wearing glasses that include ultraviolet protection, using eye drops, and avoiding irritants. More advanced cases may require surgery to remove the pterygium and graft healthy tissue in its place. Without the graft, the pterygium invariable grows back. The surgery is done at a hospital or outpatient surgery center. During the operation, the eye is made numb with anesthetic eye drops. You will be given sedation by I.V. to make you relaxed and comfortable. After surgery, you will have a patch on your eye, and will be told to go home and rest. Dr. Hofbauer will remove the patch the next day. The surgery is usually scheduled on a Wednesday, and you can return to work or school the following Monday. Dr. Hofbauer will use very fine stitches that will need to be removed about a week after the procedure. You may feel some irritation from the sutures, and Dr. Hofbauer will prescribe eye drops to make you more comfortable.
Laura E. Fox, MD
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