Pterygium

What is a pterygium?

A pterygium is a common, usually non-cancerous growth of tissue on the white part of the eye that can slowly extend onto the clear front surface of the eye (the cornea). It is often associated with long-term exposure to sunlight, wind, and dust, and may cause redness, irritation, dryness, or blurred vision as it enlarges. In some cases, growths on the eye surface can show pre-cancerous or cancerous changes, known as ocular surface squamous cell neoplasia (OSSN), which is why suspicious, atypical, or rapidly growing lesions should be assessed promptly by an eye specialist.

What are the signs and symptoms of a pterygium?

Common symptoms of a pterygium include redness, irritation, dryness, or a gritty sensation in the affected eye. Patients often notice a visible, fleshy growth on the white part of the eye that can slowly extend toward the coloured part of the eye and may appear cosmetically noticeable or aesthetically displeasing. As it enlarges, a pterygium can cause blurred or distorted vision and increased sensitivity to light, particularly in bright, windy, or dusty environments. Pterygium can cause astigmatism.

What is the treatment for pterygium?

Treatment for a pterygium depends on its size, symptoms, and effect on vision. Mild cases may be managed with lubricating eye drops or anti-inflammatory treatment to reduce irritation and redness. If the pterygium continues to grow, affects vision, causes significant discomfort, or is cosmetically concerning, surgical removal may be recommended, often with techniques designed to reduce the risk of recurrence and promote smooth healing. The surgical technique is called pterygium excision, autoconjunctival graft, and ARTISS glue.

Step 1

Pterygium is carefully excised from the cornea. The surface is cleaned and polished with a blade or burr.

Step 2

A very thin conjunctival graft is harvested from the top part of the eye.

Step 3

The graft is prepared ready for implantation. ARTISS glue is then applied on the site.

Step 4

The graft is then secured onto the wound to cover the defect with ARTISS glue.

Astigmatism Visual Simulator

This astigmatism visual simulator helps you visualise how astigmatism can affect what you see compared with normal vision. Use the toggle buttons to select the level of astigmatism, then drag the slider left or right to compare the simulated astigmatic vision on one side with normal vision on the other. The tool is designed to support understanding and discussion, and does not replace a full eye examination or accurate measurement of your prescription.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is pterygium surgery needed?

Surgery is recommended if the pterygium is affecting vision, causing significant irritation or redness, changing the shape of the cornea (astigmatism), or continuing to grow toward the centre of the eye.

Is pterygium surgery painful?

The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during surgery. Mild discomfort, scratchiness, or light sensitivity is common for a few days afterward.

How long does the surgery take?

The operation typically takes about 30 minutes and is performed as a day procedure.

What is ARTISS glue?

ARTISS® glue is a medical tissue adhesive made from human blood proteins (fibrinogen and thrombin) that mimics the body’s natural clotting process. When the two components are mixed and applied to tissue, they rapidly form a fibrin clot that acts like biological “glue” to hold tissues in place.

What is the recovery time?

Most people return to normal daily activities within a few days, but redness can take several weeks to settle. Vision may fluctuate slightly during healing.

Will the pterygium come back?

Recurrence is possible (estimated at 5%), but modern surgical techniques with grafting significantly reduce the risk. Using sunglasses and avoiding UV exposure helps lower the chance of recurrence.

What are the risks of surgery?

Risks include infection, inflammation, scarring, recurrence of the pterygium, and temporary blurred vision. Serious complications are uncommon.

Will my vision improve after surgery?

If the pterygium was distorting the cornea or blocking the visual axis, vision often improves after surgery. Glasses may still be needed for best correction.

How can I prevent another pterygium?

Wearing UV-protective sunglasses, using lubricating drops, and avoiding excessive sun, wind, and dust exposure can help prevent recurrence.

Where can I have my pterygium surgery done?

Pterygium surgery is offered in both Dunedin and Queenstown. If surgery is performed under local anaesthesia, this is commonly done at the surgeon's office. However, if sedation or general anaesthesia is required, this will have to be done at the hospital.

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