Treating Surfer's Eye: What Is Pterygium Surgery?

Pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyelid. It presents as a pink or red bump or flesh-like growth on the white of the eye, typically near the inner corner. We will also discuss surgical options as a treatment and how to return to clear vision. Say goodbye to the discomfort of gritty eyes and prepare to overcome pterygium!

What is Pterygium?
 

Pterygium is a noncancerous growth of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of your eye and lines your eyelid. It appears as a pinkish or reddish bump or fleshy growth on the white of the eye, typically near the corner closest to the nose.

The exact cause of pterygium is unknown, but it's believed to be linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, dry eyes, and chronic eye irritation from dust, wind, or other airborne particles. People who spend a lot of time outdoors, such as surfers, sailors, and lifeguards, are more at risk of developing pterygium.

Causes and Risk Factors of Pterygium
 

The exact cause of pterygium remains a mystery, but several factors are strongly linked to its development. Here's a breakdown of the main causes and risk factors:

• Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure: Chronic exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation is considered the main culprit. This is why pterygium is nicknamed "surfer's eye," commonly affecting people who spend extended periods outdoors, like surfers, sailors, and lifeguards.
• Dry eyes: Dry eye syndrome can irritate the conjunctiva, potentially contributing to pterygium development.
• Dust and wind: Exposure to airborne irritants like dust and wind can irritate the conjunctiva and increase the risk of pterygium.
• Age: Pterygium is more prevalent in older adults.
• Geographic factors: People living in sunny or windy climates are at higher risk.
• Genetics: Some studies suggest a possible genetic predisposition to pterygium.
• Occupation: Outdoor workers or those in dusty/windy environments may be at higher risk.
• Contact lens use: While the results are conflicting, some studies suggest a link between contact lens use and pterygium.
• Eye allergies: Allergies that cause eye irritation may increase the risk of pterygium.
   

Symptoms of Pterygium
 

Pterygium can be asymptomatic, especially in its early stages. However, when symptoms arise, they often involve irritation and discomfort in the eye. Here's a breakdown of the common symptoms of pterygium:

• Inflammation: This can manifest as redness or bloodshot whites of the eye on the side with the pterygium.
• Itching and burning: The eye surface may feel itchy and have a burning sensation.
• Foreign object sensation: You might feel like there's sand or grit in your eye.
• Tearing and watering: The eye may produce excess tears.
• Vision problems: If the pterygium grows large enough to cover the cornea, it can cause blurred vision or even double vision.

Pterygium Surgery Process: Step by Step
 

Pterygium surgery is a typically outpatient procedure performed by an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon). Here's a general breakdown of the step-by-step process:

1. Anesthesia: You'll receive medication to numb your eye and keep you comfortable during the surgery. This may involve a combination of local anesthetic (numbing drops or injection) and sedation (medication that relaxes you).
2. Preparation: The surgical area around your eye will be sterilized to minimize infection risk.
3. Pterygium Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the pterygium growth. This involves making an incision to separate it from the conjunctiva and cornea.
4. Optional Conjunctival Autograft (tissue transplant): In some cases, to prevent regrowth, the surgeon may use a small piece of healthy conjunctiva from another part of your eye (autograft) to cover the exposed area where the pterygium was removed.
5. Wound closure: Depending on the surgical approach, the surgeon might use stitches or special glue to close the conjunctiva.
6. Bandage or shield: Your eye may be covered with a patch or shield for protection after surgery.
7. Recovery: Pterygium surgery: expect initial discomfort, redness, blurry vision. Go home same-day, rest eye, wear patch (directed), follow-up appointments. Light activity OK in days, avoid strenuous activity/swimming for weeks. Full healing takes weeks/months (eye drops, protection needed).

Pterygium Surgery Costs and Popular Countries
 

Choosing a qualified surgeon and accredited facility should be your top priority, not just cost. Consider your insurance coverage and potential additional costs associated with overseas surgery. Prices vary depending on location, surgeon experience, and facilities.

• Developed countries: €1,800 - €9,000 EUR or more.
• Developing countries: Potentially significantly less (e.g., India, Thailand, Mexico)

Find the best eye specialists with Wupdoc. Compare prices, explore clinics offering pterygium surgery, and get the best consultations for your journey to clearer vision. Wupdoc lets you see detailed profiles of doctors and clinics, and you can send inquiries for free to get all the information you need for a successful surgery and recovery.