A pterygium (pronounced tuh-RIJ-ee-um) is a non-cancerous growth of fleshy tissue on the white part of the eye (conjunctiva) that can extend onto the clear front surface of the eye (cornea). It is sometimes called “surfer’s eye” because it’s strongly associated with sun exposure. It is very common in areas with a lot of sun exposure and locations closer to the equator

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but major risk factors include:

• Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure
• Wind and dust exposure
• Living in sunny, dry, or coastal climates
• Chronic eye irritation
• Outdoor occupations
• It’s more common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors.

A triangular, wedge-shaped growth that usually starts on the side of the eye closest to the nose. It can be small and barely noticeable or grow toward the pupil

Symptoms

Small pterygia may cause no symptoms. Larger ones can cause:

• Redness
• Irritation or burning
• Dry eye sensation
• Foreign body sensation (“something in my eye”)
• Blurred vision (if it grows over the cornea)
• Astigmatism (if it changes corneal shape)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on severity and symptoms.

In Mild Cases (Most Common)

If it’s small and not affecting vision:

• Artificial tears (lubricating drops)
• Mild steroid eye drops (short-term for inflammation, prescribed by a doctor)
• UV-protective sunglasses (very important)
• Avoiding dust and wind exposure

In Moderate Cases

If symptoms are persistent:

• Stronger prescription anti-inflammatory drops
• Regular follow-up with an eye doctor to monitor growth

Severe Cases (Vision Affected)

If it grows toward or over the pupil, it causes significant astigmatism, causes chronic redness or irritation not adequately relieved by drops, or is cosmetically concerning, then surgical removal may be recommended.

Surgery Options

The most common modern technique is excision of the pterygium followed by a conjunctival autograft (healthy tissue from your own eye is placed over the area).

This method lowers recurrence risk. Placement of the amniotic membrane contact lens (AMCL) after the procedure aids in the healing process by improving the ability of the stem cells of the eye to regenerate corneal and conjunctival tissue.

Yes, recurrence is possible — especially in younger patients or those with ongoing sun exposure. Strict UV protection and taking the prescribed steroid drops after surgery reduces recurrence risk.

You should see an eye specialist if:

• Vision changes
• The growth is enlarging
• Persistent redness or irritation
• You’re unsure whether it’s a pterygium or something else