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Pterygium surgery

A pterygium is a fleshy, non-cancerous overgrowth of the conjunctiva or the whites of the eye. It may need surgical treatment if it starts to affect your vision.

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About Pterygium

A pterygium usually starts growing in the corner of your eye nearest the nose and then spreads towards your iris forming a pink, fleshy triangle.


You may experience uncomfortable symptoms such as:

  • Itching
  • A burning sensation on the eye surface
  • Mild pain in the affected eye
  • Inflammation, which can cause your eye to become bloodshot

If the pterygium grows across your cornea (the clear covering of your pupil and iris), it can start to affect your vision.

Who is at risk of a pterygium?

You’re more likely to develop a pterygium if you:

  • Are in later life
  • Have had a lot of sun exposure over the years
  • Have spent a lot of time in dry or windy environments

How do you treat pterygium?

Treatment decisions depend on the severity of the pterygium.

We may recommend:

  • Watchful waiting – regular checkups to ensure the condition is not worsening
  • Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and wraparound sunnies when you’re outside to reduce your exposure to UV radiation and so limit the ptergyium’s growth
  • Drops or ointments to ease symptoms by lubricating and soothing the cornea
  • Surgery to remove the pterygium for either medical or cosmetic reasons, ideally before it grows across the cornea

Pterygium surgery

Pterygium surgery is a short procedure.

We’ll numb your eye and mildly sedate you to ensure your comfort. Then we’ll remove the pterygium and some of the surrounding conjunctiva tissue. After that, we replace it with a tissue graft to reduce the risk of the pterygium growing back.

Finally, we’ll cover your eye with a pad to let it heal and, once you’re feeling OK, we’ll send you home with aftercare instructions and a date for a follow-up appointment.

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All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Horizon Surgical Eye Centre can consult with you to confirm if this treatment is right for you.