What is a pterygium?
Pterygium is a benign growth on the eye that begins on the surface of the eye or conjunctiva. It can grow aggressively to start to cover the cornea and visual axis, causing eye irritation, astigmatism, or blocked vision. Most pterygia can be a result of sun exposure or heredity and are typically treated with the use of sunglasses and artificial tears.
How can a pterygium be removed?
Advanced or symptomatic pterygia can be surgically removed as an hour outpatient procedure, but the risk of recurrence is high. Sometimes, the defect remaining after the excision of the lesion can be covered with an amniotic membrane graft, or treated with a medication to prevent recurrence, but despite these efforts, they can still return.
Ready to book your procedure?
If you are ready to take the next steps, or simply want more information about a procedure, please contact our team! Dr. Amato is looking forward to speaking with you soon!