Pterygium is an eye condition that occurs about twice as often among men as women and is very uncommon for anyone under the age of twenty. It shows up as a raised or elevated mass on the surface of the eye that is usually shaped like a triangle or wing and that may grow or extend over the cornea and interfere with vision.
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Large pterygium growing over the cornea
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Even if vision is not impaired, the pterygium or pterygia are visible on the surface of the eye and may create cosmetic concerns. Pterygia are thought to result from prolonged or extended exposure to ultraviolet light, either from the sun or from artificial sources. They are more likely to appear in those who live or spent a period of time closer to the equator, but can show up no matter where you live, usually after the age of forty.
Surgical treatment of the pterygium may be necessary if the condition grows toward the center of the cornea or if it becomes increasingly red, changes the ability of the eye to see, or begins causing discomfort. Pterygium surgery usually follows a non-invasive course of medications or eye drops prescribed to combat the condition. If those have not been successful, the surgery can be done under local or topical anesthesia in an outpatient setting with sedation, if necessary.
Following pterygium surgery, the eye usually receives a patch for the next day or two, and topical antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drops, and ointments may be used to promote healing. Normal activities can be resumed the day following surgical treatment of the pterygia.
Unfortunately, while the pterygia can almost always be quickly and safely removed by Dr. Negahban, unless the surface of the eye is treated, they often re-appear. The procedure to treat the surface of the eye, autologous conjunctival autografting, is both safe and successful at preventing re-occurrence of the condition. Furthermore, Dr Negahban has had extensive experience in using Amniotic Membrane Transplants (AMT) with glue to surgically treat pterygium. In the majority of cases, no stitches are used, and only tissue glue is utilized to help the amniotic membrane adhere well to its proper place.
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