A pterygium is a pinkish, wedge-shaped growth on the white of the eye. It can grow over the cornea and affect vision. This is sometimes called “nail surgery” due to its nail-like look.

If the growth is big enough to cause vision problems or irritate the eye, removal may be needed. This is a quick outpatient surgery done at Neelkanth Eye Hospital.

The eye doctor will numb the eye with drops. The pterygium is then lifted off the clear cornea and trimmed away.

The doctor may also smooth the cornea surface below. The eye is patched after surgery to allow healing.

It takes 2-4 weeks for the eye to fully recover after pterygium removal at Neelkanth Eye Hospital. Lubricating eye drops help manage any temporary dryness or redness.

Let your eye doctor know if the growth starts reappearing. More treatment may be required to prevent it coming back.

Schedule an exam at Neelkanth Eye Hospital if you notice any fleshy tissue on the white of your eye growing onto the clear cornea. Successful pterygium surgery can provide relief and improve vision.