Pterygium

A pterygium (pronounced ter-ig-e-um) is a fleshy triangular growth that develops on the ‘skin’ of the eye (the conjunctiva), typically on the side closest to the nose. Pterygium means wing-shaped in latin. Pterygium development is most strongly associated with environmental factors, especially exposure to UV radiation. It’s common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors in sunny and windy conditions, especially surfers. Hence the condition’s other name – Surfer’s Eye. Pterygia are also commonly seen in welders. The condition is usually harmless but, if a pterygium grows across the cornea, it can cause scarring and sometimes loss of vision. The growth may also change the shape of the cornea, causing vision problems (e.g. astigmatism). One or both eyes can be affected and it more commonly arises in people aged between 20 and 40. Men are more likely to develop a pterygium than women.

PTERYGIA ARE NOT CANCEROUS – THEY ARE BENIGN GROWTHS. WHILE THEY MAY GROW LOCALLY (AND POSSIBLY AFFECT YOUR SIGHT), THEY WON’T SPREAD TO OTHER PARTS OF YOUR BODY.

How do I treat a Pterygium?

Surgical Intervention

In cases where the pterygium significantly affects vision or causes severe discomfort, surgical removal may be necessary

• Surgery is indicated if the growth is significant and continues to spread across the cornea or causes vision problems
• Surgery is usually recommended to eliminate associated symptoms and avoid adverse effects on vision
• In many instances, people choose to have surgery for cosmetic reasons.
  

Using modern micro-surgical techniques, I will carefully remove the pterygium. It is then replaced with a graft of healthy conjunctiva taken from the same eye, which is fixed into place using special tissue glue.

I use the PERFECT technique which is regarded as the gold standard in pterygium surgery and I use this technique as my standard surgery for pterygia.
PERFECT stands for: Pterygium Extended Removal Followed by Extended Conjunctival Transplantation

Advantages of the PERFECT technique:

Prevention Strategies:

Protective Measures

• UV Protection: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection and wide-brimmed hats
• Artificial Tears: Regular use of lubricating eye drops to keep the eyes moist
• Environmental Precautions: Using protective eyewear in dusty or windy environments

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Reduce Sun Exposure: Limit time spent in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours
• Hydration: Maintain good hydration with lubricants to support eye health
• Wear good-quality, wrap-around sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard and have an EPF UV rating of either 9 or 10
• Wear sunglasses when surfing or playing outdoor sports
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat outside
• Wear protective glasses/goggles with UV protection when welding

Conservative Management

These are for mild cases to alleviate symptoms and prevent further irritation.

• Treatment for minor irritation includes eye drops or ointments that help to lubricate and soothe the cornea
• For severe inflammation, I prescribed a short course of steroid eye drops and lubricants. These medications only ease the symptoms and are not a cure
     • Lubricating Eye Drops: Help to reduce dryness and discomfort.
     • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Eye drops or ointments containing steroids to reduce inflammation.
     • Protective Eyewear: Sunglasses that block UV rays to prevent further growth

FAQs:

Before and After Pterygium Surgery

My Mission Statement:

I am dedicated to providing the best clinical expertise and the highest standard of care.

This is on a personal and professional level, to give all my patients of all ages the best opportunity for a lifetime of healthy eyes and excellent vision.


Over the past 20 years I have had the absolute pleasure of helping tens of thousands of patients of various ages improve and maintain their vision. Helping patients to free themselves from the burden of glasses and contact lenses is my passion.

To perform microsurgery on the eyes requires exceptional surgical skill and acumen. To perform all types of eye surgery and any other ocular surgery at a world class level requires expertise along with access to state of the art and the world’s best equipment. For this reason I have spent a total of 17 years training and perfecting my surgical armamentarium and spared no cent to acquire the best and most advanced diagnostic, surgical and laser equipment in the world to provide my patients with world class care.

I understand that getting surgery, especially on your eyes, is a serious decision and can cause anxiety in some. Your eyes are unique, and you should demand a bespoke solution tailored to your lifestyle, visual requirements and goals. That is why I offer the most thorough and intense medical examination and consultation that any patient will ever go through. During your consultation we will meet, and I can take the time to answer all your questions and talk through any concerns you have.

I am passionate about transforming people’s lives by transforming their vision. I look forward to spending time with you at our stunning and state of the art clinics in Booragoon and Craigie to see whether you could gain exceptional vision and eye health

MBChB, DipOphth, FCOphth, FRANZCO, MMed (Ophth), FRCSI, FEBO, GradDip(RefCatSurg), MMed(RefCatSurg), FWCRSVS

Why Choose Me?