A pterygium is an abnormal growth of the conjunctiva (the skin of the eye.) A pterygium is benign (not cancerous), but if not removed, it can continue to grow and cover the cornea and limit your vision by causing permanent scarring and astigmatism.

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Pterygiums are generally caused by excess exposure to the sun and are more common in people who have lived in warm and tropical climates of prolonged sun exposure. Most often a pterygium is located on the part of the conjunctiva closer to the nose, and can appear as a yellow-red “bump”on the eye.

Treatment

The latest technique of pterygium removal is via excision with conjunctival auto grafting (PECG). This is a day surgery procedure and takes about 15-20 minutes.

The procedure is performed with local anaesthesia and sedation. Dr. Gupta uses an advanced surgical glue which binds the graft to the eye in seconds such that no sutures are required.  This results in significantly reduced post-operative discomfort,  less inflammation and an enhanced recovery.

Generally patients have minimal discomfort.  There is often  awareness that their eye feels “different” for a few days. Post operatively, the eye will usually be remain red for 2-3 weeks after surgery.