Understanding Pterygium

Pterygium (pronounced “tur-RIDGE-ium”) is a noncancerous thickening of the outer coating (conjunctiva) of the eye that grows onto the cornea. Normally, the conjunctiva is a thin, clear membrane over the “whites” of the eye (sclera) and extends to the inner surface of the eyelids. When a pterygium is present, a fleshy mass is felt or seen on the conjunctiva. Commonly referred to as surfer’s eye, this type of growth can be dangerous because it can affect vision, cause the eye to be dry, and cause a poor appearance.

Growth of a pterygium usually starts near the corner of the eye by the bridge of the nose. It will start to grow, eventually spreading to cover the cornea. Even though a pterygium is not cancerous, it can be quite unsightly, and many people want to treat it. The problem can also cause quite a bit of irritation to your eye by disrupting the normally smooth surface of the cornea, affecting your vision. For both of these reasons, we believe that treating the pterygium is the best option.

As a pterygium grows, it may become red and irritated. Larger growths may extend across the cornea. Oftentimes, people report they feel as though something is in their eye a great deal of the time. In severe cases, a pterygium can entirely block a patient’s vision.

In mild cases, pterygium redness and discomfort can be controlled with lubricant eyedrops (artificial tears). However, when symptoms of redness, irritation, or blurred vision are resistant to conservative treatment or when vision is affected by progressive growth of a pterygium, surgery is considered.

At Visionary Eye Doctors, we specialize in pterygium diagnosis and treatment. As you’ll read on his profile, Dr. Martinez has performed more than 11,000 pterygiectomies, with an astoundingly low recurrence rate of less than 1%. This is one of the largest volumes of pterygium surgeries and lowest recurrence rates, placing Dr. Martinez as a pterygium “Top Surgeon” internationally. Dr. Martinez maintains a research fellow focused on pterygium. He has published and presented numerous studies nationally and internationally to share his expertise regarding pterygium.

If you think you may have a pterygium, or if anything about your eyesight is bothering you, don’t hesitate to visit or contact the experts at Visionary Eye Doctors.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PTERYGIUM

• Common causes – From irritants in the eye to even the climate you live in, here are the common causes and risk factors for this condition. 
• Symptoms and diagnosis – Do you have a pterygium? Learn the common signs of this condition and what your doctor will be looking for to diagnose it.
• Treatment – Discover innovative treatment options from Visionary Eye Doctors.
• Insurance and payment – Our team will work with your insurance provider to get coverage for your pterygium treatment, so you can enjoy life free form this unsightly and impactful condition.
• Consultation – Schedule your consultation to learn more about your options for pterygium treatment.
• FAQs – Get answers to common questions about pterygium and its treatment options.