Pterygium: Causes and Treatment
A pterygium is a fleshy, wing-shaped growth of tissue that spreads from the white of the eye onto the cornea. Common in sunny, dusty, windy climates, it is usually harmless but can affect comfort, appearance and — if it grows far enough — vision.
What causes it
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (sun) light, dust and wind is the main driver — which is why it is common in outdoor workers. Dryness and irritation contribute.
When treatment is needed
Many small pterygia just need lubricant drops, sun protection and monitoring. Treatment is considered when the growth becomes inflamed, causes significant irritation, induces astigmatism, or threatens to encroach on the central cornea.
Surgery
When removal is needed, the pterygium is excised and the gap is covered — often with a graft of the eye’s own surface tissue — which markedly lowers the chance of it returning.
Frequently asked questions
Does a pterygium need to be removed?
Not always — small, quiet ones can be monitored. Removal is for symptomatic, growing or vision-affecting pterygia.
Can a pterygium come back after surgery?
It can, but modern techniques using a surface graft greatly reduce recurrence. Sun protection afterwards helps.
This article is for general awareness and does not replace consultation with an eye specialist.
Related: Ocular Surface Disease · Cornea Services · Book an appointment
This article is for general awareness and does not replace a consultation with an eye specialist.
Have a question about your eyes?
Book a consultation at Balaji Horizon Eye Hospital — Science City & Naranpura, Ahmedabad.
Care you can trust
Specialist surgeon
Fellowship-trained cornea, refractive & cataract surgeon.
Advanced technology
First in Gujarat with ANTERION & SPECTRALIS (GMPE).
Ethical, honest care
Evidence-based, individualised advice — no overtreatment.
Two locations
Convenient care at Science City & Naranpura, Ahmedabad.
Dr. Jayadatt Patel
MBBS, MS (Ophthalmology), FCRS — Cornea, Refractive & Ocular Surface Surgeon
Founder & Director of Balaji Horizon Eye Hospital and Consultant Cornea & Refractive Surgeon at C.H. Nagri Eye Hospital, Ahmedabad. Dr. Patel focuses on accurate diagnosis, vision preservation and individualised, ethical care.
View full profile →Ready to book your consultation?
Same specialist care at both our Ahmedabad branches.