UV radiation (usually from sunlight) is the most common cause of pterygium. This explains why pterygium occurs with increasing frequency in climates approaching the equator. Other causes include continuous exposure to dry, dusty environments. People who spend significant time in water sports (surfing or fishing) are particularly susceptible to pterygium because of the intense exposure to UV that occurs in these environments.

Regularly wear UV 400 rated sunglasses when outdoors in sunny conditions. Sunglasses with a wrap-around design provide better protection than those with large gaps between the sunglass frame and the skin around the eyes. Wearing a hat with a wide brim provides valuable additional protection.

Usually, the operation is done as a day case. You will go home wearing an eye shield which must be left in place for 24 hours. Your eye will be quite sore for about a week after the operation. Redness of the eye will take 2 to 3 weeks to clear. You should not swim until after your follow up appointment and should take care not to poke or rub your eye. You may need at least a week off work, and off driving, so please ask Laser Vision for a certificate if you need one.

There are a number of things to expect after this procedure, including: Pain, redness, infection, an uneven surface of the eye, scarring, recurrence – this is much less common with modern techniques, but is occasionally troublesome. Re-operation may be possible.

Surgery takes around 30 minutes and is usually performed under local anaesthetic