Pterygium surgery requires a local anaesthetic where the pterygium is removed from the eye. To reduce the risk of recurrence, a graft of tissue is taken from underneath the top lid and placed where the pterygium used to be after it has been removed. This is a very effective, safe procedure for treating pterygium.
Along with looking unpleasant, pterygiums can cause irritation and dryness. They can also interfere with vision by distorting the cornea which can throw the eye out of focus. This can also interfere with achieving a good result after cataract or lens surgery. A pterygium can also grow across the line of sight and leave permanent scarring.
Pterygium removal is a surgical procedure. It is performed at a day surgery and does not require an overnight stay.
It is normal for the eye to feel a little sore and uncomfortable for a few days following pterygium surgery. The doctors at Hunter Laser Vision use a form of glue, rather than the traditional sutures, to adhere the graft to the bed left by excising the pterygium.
Advantages of using glue:
- Reduced surgery time
- Less postoperative discomfort
- Faster healing
- Potentially lower recurrence rates
- Decreased risk of suture-related complications
