Treat pterygium effectively with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Pterygium, also known as “surfer’s eye,” is a non-cancerous growth of tissue on the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye. It typically begins as a small, fleshy bump on the eye’s surface, but can grow larger over time and extend onto the cornea, potentially affecting vision. Pterygium is more common in individuals frequently exposed to UV rays, wind, or dust.
The symptoms of pterygium can vary depending on the size and location of the growth. Common symptoms include:
Pterygium is more common in people who live in sunny climates or spend a lot of time outdoors without eye protection. While the exact cause of pterygium is not fully understood, it is strongly linked to prolonged exposure to environmental elements such as:
UV rays from the sun are considered a major risk factor.
Frequent exposure to wind, dust, and dry conditions increases the likelihood of developing pterygium.
Smoke, sand, and other airborne particles can also contribute to the development of the condition.
Diagnosing pterygium is straightforward and usually involves:
Your doctor will perform a detailed examination using a slit-lamp microscope to assess the size, location, and severity of the growth.
This imaging technique can map the curvature of the cornea, helping to determine if the pterygium is affecting the shape of the cornea and vision.
Your doctor may check how well you can see with and without the growth to determine whether it’s impairing your vision.
For monitoring purposes, photographs may be taken to track the pterygium’s growth over time.
Treatment for pterygium depends on the size, symptoms, and impact on vision. Options include:
If the pterygium is small and not causing any significant symptoms, regular monitoring by an eye doctor may be recommended.
For mild irritation or dryness, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help relieve discomfort.
Prescription eye drops or ointments may be used to reduce inflammation and redness.
If the pterygium is growing or causing vision problems, surgical removal may be necessary. The procedure involves excising the growth and may include grafting tissue onto the affected area to prevent recurrence. Dr Fong will perform an excision of pterygium and conjunctival autograft with fibrin glue.
Selecting the appropriate treatment for pterygium depends on several factors:
Mild cases with no impact on vision may only require lubricating eye drops. If symptoms worsen or the growth becomes more noticeable, more aggressive treatment may be needed.
Small, non-intrusive growths can often be monitored, while larger growths that affect the cornea may require surgical intervention.
Surgical removal can be an effective option, but recurrence is possible. Techniques such as conjunctival grafting reduce the risk of the pterygium returning.
Patients exposed to harsh environmental conditions should adopt protective measures such as wearing sunglasses and using protective gear to prevent further growth.
After pterygium surgery, proper aftercare is crucial for optimal healing and preventing recurrence. Post-surgery care typically includes:
Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and reduce swelling.
It’s essential to wear UV-blocking sunglasses and minimise sun exposure, as UV radiation can trigger a recurrence.
Limit activities that may strain your eyes, such as heavy reading, screen time, or exposure to dry, dusty environments for a few days post-surgery.
Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence of pterygium.
Early detection and treatment of pterygium are essential to prevent long-term vision impairment. Ignoring the growth may result in:
BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS
Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS
Dr Allan Fong is an ophthalmologist at Angel Eye & Cataract Centre with years of experience treating pterygium and other eye conditions. During his tenure at Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), Dr Fong performed numerous pterygium surgeries with conjunctival autografts with Fibrin Glue.
Known for his pterygium surgery, Dr Fong provides expert guidance and personalised care, tailoring his approach based on individual needs and the severity of the condition. His focus extends beyond just treating pterygium—he is committed to preventing its recurrence and ensuring long-term eye health.
Don’t let pterygium affect the way you live. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we offer comprehensive pterygium care tailored to your unique needs. Schedule a consultation or make an enquiry today!
For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.
Pterygium is not life-threatening, but it can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, may affect your vision. It is important to manage symptoms early and monitor for any changes.
While pterygium typically does not cause permanent vision loss, it can distort vision if it grows over the cornea. Early treatment can prevent serious complications.
Wearing sunglasses with UV protection, avoiding prolonged exposure to wind and dust, and using protective eyewear in harsh environments can reduce the risk of developing pterygium.
There is a possibility of recurrence after surgery. However, surgical techniques such as conjunctival grafting have been shown to lower the risk of pterygium growing back.
In its early stages, pterygium can often be managed with lubricating eye drops and anti-inflammatory medication. However, larger growths that impair vision may require surgery.
Recovery from pterygium surgery usually takes about one to two weeks. You may experience some discomfort during this period, but most patients return to normal activities within a short time.
Pterygium surgery is generally performed under local anaesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some post-operative discomfort is common, but it is usually manageable with medication.
Yes, pterygium can affect one or both eyes, especially in individuals frequently exposed to UV rays and other environmental irritants.
If you notice any growth on the white of your eye, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist for evaluation. Early detection and management can prevent complications.
Pterygium is more common in adults, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors. However, it can also develop in children who are frequently exposed to sun, wind, or dust without adequate protection.
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Singapore 329565
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Mon – Fri:
9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat:
9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun & PH:
Closed
