top of page

PTERYGIUM

Close Up on Eyes

Pterygium

 

The white of the eye is covered by a transparent membrane called the conjunctiva. Every so often a small segment of the conjunctiva will undergo a degenerative process and create a growth called a pinguecula. If the pinguecula continues to grow it may extend onto the cornea (the clear front window of the eye). At this point the growth is now called a pterygium.

 

 

 

Once on the cornea a pterygium has the potential to induce irregular astigmatism (which will distort your vision) or may actually continue to grow and encroach the patient’s visual axis.  A pterygium most often occurs on the inner corner of the eye, but it can also appear on the outer corner. Most commonly, it is found in people who spend a great deal of time outdoors, especially in sunny/warm climates. Long-term exposure to sunlight and chronic eye irritation from dry and dusty conditions often play an important causal role.

 

When a pterygium becomes red and irritated, eye drops or ointments may be used to help reduce the inflammation. In the long-run the only true cure is through surgical excision.   Despite proper surgical removal, a pterygium may reoccur, most often in young people.   At the time of surgery, our surgeons utilize special surgical techniques and medication to reduce the recurrence rate.  Afterwards, protecting the eyes from excessive ultraviolet light with proper sunglasses, avoiding dry and dusty conditions, along with the use of artificial tears will help prevent the pterygium from reoccurring.

 

 

Manhattan Office

Union Square

Tel 212.777.7270

Fax 212.225.8416

33 5th Avenue, Suite 1A

NY, NY 10003

Manhattan Aesthetic & LASIK Center

Bryant Park

Tel 212.777.7270

Fax 212.225.8416

36 W44th Street, Suite 1203

NY, NY 10036

Queens Office

Elmhurst

Tel 718.429.0300

Fax 718.899.6338

83-05 Grand Avenue

Elmhurst, NY 11373

  • transparent_social-facebook-circle
  • transparent_instagram_circle_color
bottom of page