Pterygium

A pterygium (pronounced “teh-RIJ-ee-um”) is a non-cancerous, triangular growth of tissue on the surface of the eye. It usually starts on the white of the eye (the conjunctiva) and can extend onto the cornea (the clear front window of the eye).

Many pterygia are mild and can be managed conservatively, but if the growth becomes larger, causes persistent symptoms, or starts to affect vision, further treatment may be recommended.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we offer consultant-led assessment and management to help relieve symptoms, monitor change, and discuss treatment options where appropriate.

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Types of Pterygium

Pterygium is commonly described by how active or advanced it is:

• Early / mild pterygium – small growth with occasional irritation or redness
• Progressive pterygium – increasing size or thickening, more persistent symptoms
• Vision-affecting pterygium – extends towards the centre of the cornea, may distort the surface and affect clarity

Some patients can also develop a related benign change called a pinguecula (a yellowish raised area on the white of the eye) which does not grow onto the cornea but can cause irritation.

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Common Causes of Pterygium

Pterygium is associated with long-term irritation and environmental exposure. Common contributing factors include:

• UV (sunlight) exposure
• Wind, dust and dry conditions
• Working or spending significant time outdoors
• Chronic dry eye or surface irritation

Your consultant will consider risk factors and advise on prevention to reduce recurrence and symptom flare-ups.

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Symptoms of Pterygium

Symptoms vary depending on size and activity. Common symptoms include:

• Redness (often on the side closest to the nose)
• Irritation / grittiness or a feeling of something in the eye
• Dryness or watery eyes
• Cosmetic concern (visible tissue growth)
• Blurred vision or distortion if the cornea surface becomes irregular
• In more advanced cases, increasing astigmatism (changing prescription)

Some pterygia cause minimal symptoms and are only noticed during an eye examination.

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Diagnosis at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Diagnosis is usually straightforward and includes:

• Consultant-led history and symptom review
• Slit-lamp eye examination to assess the size, thickness and corneal involvement
• Vision testing and refraction (checking if your prescription has changed)
• Assessment for dry eye or eyelid inflammation, if contributing to symptoms

If there are any atypical features, your consultant will advise on the safest next steps.

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Treatment & Management

Treatment depends on symptoms, growth pattern and impact on vision.

Conservative (non-surgical) management

• Lubricating eye drops to ease dryness and irritation
• Anti-inflammatory drops may be used for short periods if the eye is particularly inflamed (only under clinical guidance)
• Practical advice to reduce triggers, such as:
  • UV protection (wraparound sunglasses)
  • Avoiding dust/wind exposure where possible
  • Managing dry eye proactively

Surgical treatment

Surgery may be considered if the pterygium:

• Is growing or repeatedly inflamed
• Causes persistent discomfort despite drops
• Affects vision, induces astigmatism, or approaches the centre of the cornea
• Is a significant cosmetic concern for the patient

Your consultant will explain:

• The proposed technique and aftercare
• Expected recovery time
• Recurrence risk and how to reduce it (UV protection and surface care)

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If you’re experiencing persistent redness, irritation, or changes in vision, contact Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for an ophthalmology assessment and tailored advice. There is no need to be registered with the hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers consultations, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, any costs will always be discussed.