Introduction
Pterygium is a common eye condition, especially in regions with high sun exposure like Brisbane. This condition is characterised by the growth of fleshy tissue on the white part of the eye, which can extend onto the cornea. While not always harmful, it can cause discomfort, vision impairment, and cosmetic concerns. When left untreated, a pterygium may lead to astigmatism or more severe vision problems. In such cases, pterygium surgery becomes a necessary option. This article outlines the benefits and risks of pterygium surgery, giving a balanced view for anyone considering the procedure.
What Is Pterygium Surgery?
Pterygium surgery is a procedure designed to remove the abnormal tissue growth on the surface of the eye. This surgery is often recommended when the pterygium causes significant discomfort, affects vision, or grows aggressively. The surgical process involves removing the pterygium and either leaving the eye to heal naturally or grafting tissue to the affected area to prevent recurrence.
Benefits of Pterygium Surgery
- Restores Vision Clarity
One of the most significant benefits of pterygium surgery is the potential to restore clear vision. A growing pterygium can invade the cornea, causing blurriness and distortion in vision. By removing the growth, pterygium surgery can improve or restore normal sight, particularly when the pterygium affects the central visual field.
- Alleviates Eye Irritation and Discomfort
Pterygium often causes eye discomfort, including a gritty or burning sensation, redness, and irritation. These symptoms can worsen when the eye is exposed to wind, sunlight, or dust. After surgery, most patients experience relief from these discomforts, leading to a better quality of life.
- Improves Cosmetic Appearance
For many, the appearance of a pterygium can be bothersome. It often causes redness and a noticeable growth on the white part of the eye. Pterygium surgery removes this unsightly tissue, improving the cosmetic appearance of the eye. This can be particularly important for individuals who feel self-conscious about the visible growth.
- Prevents Further Complications
If left untreated, a pterygium can continue to grow, leading to more serious complications. For instance, it can induce astigmatism by distorting the shape of the cornea. It may also cause scarring, which can further impair vision. Surgery prevents these potential complications, preserving both eye health and vision quality.
- Reduced Risk of Recurrence with Grafting Technique
A significant advancement in pterygium surgery is the use of conjunctival autografting, where a piece of the patient’s own conjunctival tissue is grafted over the removal site. This technique has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of recurrence compared to older methods, offering patients a more permanent solution.
Risks of Pterygium Surgery
- Recurrence of Pterygium
Despite advances in surgical techniques, one of the primary risks associated with pterygium surgery is recurrence. The pterygium can regrow in some patients, sometimes more aggressively than before. However, modern techniques, such as conjunctival autografting or the use of anti-inflammatory medications have helped to lower the recurrence rate.
- Infection
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection following pterygium surgery. While infections are rare, they can cause significant complications if they occur. Proper postoperative care and adherence to prescribed antibiotic eye drops can help mitigate this risk. - Scarring
Scarring is another possible complication of pterygium surgery. In some cases, scar tissue can form on the cornea or conjunctiva, leading to vision impairment or cosmetic concerns. Surgeons take precautions to minimise scarring, and in many cases, scarring is minimal and does not affect vision.
- Dry Eye Syndrome
Some patients experience dry eye symptoms following pterygium surgery. This may result from changes in the tear film caused by the removal of the pterygium. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops or prescribed medications can help manage this condition, though it is usually temporary.
- Delayed Healing
Recovery from pterygium surgery can take several weeks, during which time the eye may be red, swollen, or uncomfortable. In some instances, healing may be delayed, especially if the patient is prone to slow recovery or does not follow postoperative care instructions. It’s essential to follow the ophthalmologist’s advice for a smooth and timely recovery.
The Procedure
Pterygium surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia and takes around 30-45 minutes. The surgeon removes the abnormal growth and may graft tissue from another part of the eye (conjunctival autograft) to cover the area, reducing the risk of recurrence. After the procedure, patients are typically prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops and antibiotics to support healing and prevent infection.
Most patients experience mild discomfort for a few days following surgery, and vision may be blurry initially but usually clears up within a week. It’s important to avoid activities that could expose the eye to dust or direct sunlight during the recovery period, as these could hinder healing.
Conclusion
Pterygium surgery offers numerous benefits, particularly for those suffering from vision impairment, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns due to pterygium growth. While the procedure is generally safe and effective, it is not without risks such as recurrence and infection. Patients should carefully weigh the benefits and risks and discuss their options with a qualified ophthalmologist.
At Southside Eye Centre, our team of experienced ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care, including expert pterygium surgery. With access to the latest technology and techniques, we strive to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.
