Learn How Pterygium Impacts Las Vegas Residents & Take Action
A Pteryguim is a fleshy, often bumpy growth on the eye which is visible.
Yes, a Pteryguim may be uncomfortable since it can create an uneven surface of the eye and over time, impinging on the Iris and pupil.
Pteryguims are often referred to as “Surfer’s Eye” because prolonged exposure to the sun without sunglasses is a major contributor to the development of Pteryguims. It is charcaterized by white bumps and can also be accompanied by pink, fleshy growth usually starting on the white part of your eye. Pterygium (pronounced tur-IJ-ee-um).
Pterygium’s are extremely common among people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
At Precise Sight, we know that a visible growth on your eye can be alarming. Fortunately, pterygium is non-cancerous. However, if left untreated, it can cause chronic discomfort and eventually threaten your vision. Whether you need relief from irritation or are looking into removing pterygium completely, our team is here to help you see clearly and comfortably again.
The Las Vegas climate creates the perfect environment for it to develop. The primary cause of pterygium is long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun.
Other environmental factors that increase your risk include:
In its early stages, a pterygium might just look like a small, raised yellowish bump (often called a pinguecula) before growing into a wedge-shaped pink tissue that extends toward the colored part of your eye (the cornea).
Common symptoms include:
01
A visible pink or red fleshy growth, usually on the side of the eye closest to your nose.
02
Persistent irritation, eye redness, and inflammation.
03
A gritty, burning, or scratching sensation, like there is sand stuck in your eye.
04
Dry Eyes with frequent tearing.
05
Difficulty or discomfort when wearing contact lenses.
Many small pterygia grow very slowly and may only cause mild irritation. However, ignoring a growing pterygium can lead to more serious, long-term complications.
As the tissue grows across your cornea, it can physically pull on the surface of your eye. This alters the shape of your eye and causes astigmatism, leading to blurred or distorted vision. In severe, advanced cases, the tissue can grow directly over your pupil, permanently blocking your vision and causing corneal scarring. Early monitoring by an eye doctor is the best way to prevent permanent damage.
If your surfer’s eye is small and your vision is unaffected, surgery may not be necessary right away. We usually start with conservative treatments to keep you comfortable and halt the growth:
If the growth is causing severe discomfort, interfering with your vision, or if you are unhappy with the cosmetic appearance, we will recommend surgically removing the pterygium.
Pterygium removal is a safe, outpatient procedure. First, we numb your eye so you are completely comfortable. Then, our surgeons carefully remove the abnormal tissue. To drastically reduce the chances of the surfer’s eye growing back, we use a modern technique called a conjunctival autograft. This means we take a tiny, healthy piece of tissue from underneath your upper eyelid and place it over the area where the pterygium was removed. Most patients recover within a few weeks and can return to their normal daily activities quickly.
Is a pterygium cancerous?
No. A pterygium is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of tissue. It will not spread to other parts of your body, but it can spread across the surface of your eye and impact your vision.
Can a pterygium go away on its own?
No, a pterygium will not disappear without surgical removal. While eye drops can relieve the redness and irritation, surgery is the only way to physically eliminate the growth.
What is the difference between a pinguecula and a pterygium?
A pinguecula is a yellowish bump on the white of the eye that does not grow over the cornea. A pterygium is a fleshy, wedge-shaped growth containing blood vessels that can grow onto the cornea and affect vision. A pinguecula can sometimes turn into a pterygium.
Will my surfer’s eye grow back after surgery?
While there is always a small risk of recurrence, the modern grafting techniques we use at Precise Sight keep the regrowth rate very low. Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses after your surgery is the best way to keep your eyes healthy.
We’re more than a routine eye clinic. At Precise Sight, we understand the connection between lifestyle, technology, and eye health. Whether you’re struggling with digital eye strain, concerned about macular changes, or simply want clearer, more comfortable vision, our board-certified ophthalmologists, led by Dr. Eissa Hanna, offer expert care you can trust.
Our personalized approach ensures each treatment plan is tailored to your vision needs, your digital habits, and your unique goals.
Don’t let screen time interfere with your comfort or eye health. Whether you’re concerned about digital eye strain, macular degeneration, or simply want to build better habits, Precise Sight in Las Vegas is here to help.
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Fri: 07:30 am – 03:00 pm
Sat/Sun: Closed
