Pterygium

  • It is a non-cancerous growth originating from the conjunctiva of the eye (white part) that grows over the clear part of the eye (cornea) towards the central visual axis.

  • Pterygia are caused by:

    • Prolonged sun (UV) exposure

    • Prolonged exposure to windy and dusty conditions

    • Dry eye conditions

    Pterygia are particularly common in Australia due to our high UV exposure.

    • Monitoring of the lesion for growth / irritation

    • Eye drops e.g. lubricants, anti-inflammatories,

    • Surgical excision

    • Rarely pterygia can develop a cancerous growth which requires urgent excision

  • Surgery is recommended if your pterygium:

    • Is growing towards or over the central cornea

    • Affects your vision

    • Causes ongoing redness, irritation, or discomfort

    • Is cosmetically concerning

    Not all pterygia require surgery—many can be monitored.

  • Pterygium surgery is usually performed as a day procedure under local anaesthetic.

    The procedure involves:

    1. Removal of the pterygium carefully off the cornea and conjunctiva

    2. A small graft of healthy conjunctiva (from under your eyelid) is placed over the bare area

    3. The graft is secured with glue or fine stitches

    This technique (called a conjunctival autograft) significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.

    • Improves vision (if affected)

    • Reduces irritation and redness

    • Improves appearance of the eye

    • Prevents further growth

    • Recurrence of the pterygium

    • Redness or inflammation even after excision

    • Infection (rare)

    • Graft displacement

    • Scarring

    • Dryness or irritation

A woman in a medical cap and gown with an eye patch over her left eye, smiling broadly.