Pterygium surgery not only enhances the appearance of your eyes but also addresses larger growths that may impair vision or cause discomfort. Whether for cosmetic enhancement or medical necessity, Dr. Katzman’s expertise ensures optimal results. Enjoy clearer, healthier eyes with personalized care tailored to your needs.
Pterygium, commonly known as surfer’s eye here in southern california, can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Pterygium surgery is often necessary when the growth becomes large enough to interfere with vision or cause significant discomfort. Sometimes, a pterygium can extend onto the cornea, leading to astigmatism or visual distortion. Surgical removal is the most effective way to restore clear vision and alleviate symptoms.
Additionally, pterygium surgery may be performed for cosmetic reasons, especially if the growth is small but aesthetically displeasing. While insurance coverage for cosmetic procedures is typically limited, larger pterygia that affect vision or cause severe symptoms are often covered. Addressing the condition early can prevent further growth and complications.
The pterygium surgery process at Alvarado Eye Associates involves several steps to ensure optimal outcomes. Here’s what you can expect:
While a pterygium can be effectively removed, preventing recurrence is crucial for long-term eye health. Regular eye exams are important to detect any signs of recurrence early. Protecting your eyes from environmental factors that contribute to pterygium development can significantly reduce the risk of regrowth.
Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays, using protective eyewear in windy or dusty conditions, and using lubricating eye drops to keep the eyes moist are all effective preventative measures. Most importantly, patients must strictly follow the post-surgery eye drops instructions. This eye drop regimen is specially designed to minimize inflammation in the first 2 months and drastically reduce the risk of regrowth. By taking these steps, patients can maintain healthy eyes and reduce the likelihood of pterygium recurrence.
Patients undergoing pterygium surgery at Alvarado Eye Associates can expect significant improvements in vision and comfort. Removing the pterygium alleviates irritation and redness and restores clear, unobstructed vision. This improvement allows patients to return to their daily activities without the discomfort or visual disturbances caused by pterygium.
The benefits of pterygium surgery extend beyond physical relief. Many patients experience a boost in confidence after removing an unsightly growth. Additionally, by addressing the condition early and following preventive measures, patients can enjoy long-term eye health and reduced risk of recurrence, contributing to improved quality of life.
Pterygium often develops due to prolonged exposure to UV light, wind, and dust, which can irritate the conjunctiva.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, making it virtually painless. Any post-operative discomfort is typically mild and manageable, but this will depend on how large the pterygium is at the time of surgery. Dr. Katzman will discuss this in detail with you at your consultation
Most patients recover within a few weeks, although complete healing may take 6-8 weeks. Follow-up appointments ensure proper recovery.
While there is a risk of recurrence, Dr. Katzman employs only the most studied and validated techniques for successfully removing pterygium. Using a conjunctival autograft or allograft and following preventive measures can significantly reduce this risk. Although there is mixed data, the risk of recurrence is somewhere around 1-5%
Insurance may cover pterygium surgery if the growth is large enough to affect vision or cause significant symptoms. Cosmetic removals are less likely to be covered. Often times removing a pterygium early decreases the chance for recurrence, results in better cosmetic outcomes, and will avoid any permanent decrease in vision that results from waiting to long for removal. There is a clear benefit to removing them early, but again, insurance often won’t cover services at this stage
At Alvarado Eye Associates, we are committed to providing advanced pterygium treatments tailored to your needs. Under the expert care of Dr. Lee Katzman, our team ensures that every patient receives personalized attention and the highest quality treatment available. If you are experiencing symptoms of a pterygium, early intervention can significantly improve your comfort and vision.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Katzman today to learn more about how pterygium surgery can enhance your eye health and quality of life. Contact Alvarado Eye Associates in San Diego to take the first step toward clearer, healthier eyes.
