A protective structure known as the conjunctiva lines the inner eyelid and sclera, the white part of the eye. When overexposed to sunlight, the conjunctiva will attempt to protect the cornea from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun by forming a benign growth over the cornea. This condition is known as Pterygium, or Surfer’s Eye, because outdoor aquatic athletes, like surfers, who are constantly in direct sunlight commonly suffer from this condition.
Pterygium often presents itself on the nasal side of the eyeball; sunlight must pass through the outer cornea to stimulate Pterygium on the nasal side of the eye. The eye’s outer edge is usually protected from ultraviolet overexposure because of the shade afforded by the nose. Once a benign growth has developed, Pterygium can cause blurred vision and will present symptoms such as burning and itching, grittiness, and the feeling of a foreign object. Surgery is the most common treatment for this condition if medication (typically eye drops) has failed or the growth has advanced enough to impede vision. If you have developed Pterygium in one or both of your eyes, Dr. Joseph Selem can remove the benign conjunctiva growth at Miami Eye Center with Pterygium Surgery.
Pterygium Surgery is a common, outpatient surgery performed in office at Miami Eye Center. During a 30 to 45 minute procedure, Dr. Selem will remove the growth from the eye and transfer a section of healthy conjunctiva along with a conjunctiva graft to fill the section that was removed. The graft, in addition to further preventative treatment, will ensure that the growth does not return. Patients often need an eye patch for 1 to 2 days to avoid rubbing and itching, but they may return to work and normal daily activities at that time. Preventative treatment is extremely important to ensure that Pterygium does not reappear after surgery.
| Preventative Treatment | |
| Sunglasses | Wearing UVA and UVB protective sunglasses, even on cloudy days, will block 99%-100% of harmful rays coming into contact with your eyes. |
| Hats and Visors | Wearing wide-brim hats will also provide some shade, minimizing ultraviolet ray exposer. |
| Eye drops | Keeping eyes moist with artificial tears and eye drops is important as well, especially while in dry, dusty, and windy conditions. |
Is Pterygium Surgery right for me?
At Miami Eye Center, Dr. Joseph Selem will meet with you during your private consultation to assess your individual situation. Dr. Selem can help you decide if Pterygium Surgery in Miami is right for you. See the beauty in yourself and the world around you in crisp, clear detail today! Request an appointment online or call Dr. Joseph Selem and the staff at Miami Eye Center at 305-444-0221 to schedule your private consultation.
