Sometimes the eyes are affected in ways that seem very concerning. The abnormal growth of tissue near or over the cornea, called pterygium, may prompt a person to feel anxious that vision will be impaired or that this growth might be cancerous. While it is always recommended to have eyes examined under such circumstances, being diagnosed with pterygium is not a cause for alarm. The condition is actually benign and rarely affects vision. While it usually does not lead to vision loss, this condition may result in a bit of discomfort depending on the specifics of the case. Most patients will feel as though they have something in their eye when a pterygium has developed. In many cases, Laguna Hills pterygium surgery with Dr. Salib will successfully remove the problem.
There is no exact cause known for the development of a pterygium. Most often, we see that individuals who have spent more time in the sun throughout their lives tend to be more prone to the condition than those who receive less direct sunlight. Exposure to ultraviolet light, both UVA and UVB rays seem to be a strong instigator for pterygia, as people who live in areas near the equator, and those who engage in outdoor recreation or work have shown a higher incidence of these deposits of fat and protein.
Ultraviolet light from the sun is not the only risk factor that may lead to the need for Laguna Hills pterygium surgery. Professionals who are regularly exposed to UV light, such as welders, for example, may also experience abnormal tissue growth. Also playing a role is:
- Genetic predisposition
- Prolonged exposure to allergens like dust, air pollution, and dirt
- Prolonged exposure to noxious chemicals
Normally, smaller pterygia are not operated on, as they pose no threat to eye health. Should vision become obstructed, there is good reason to remove the growth. In such instances, insurance coverage may be available for the removal surgery after careful review of medical records and information from our office. While insurance companies will not cover removal for cosmetic reasons, Dr. Salib may perform Laguna Hills pterygium surgery to benefit the patient for discomfort, irritation or pain, for example.
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Pterygium surgery is usually very effective, but the recurrence of tissue growth may occur in up to 20-30% of cases. Our Laguna Hills pterygium surgery is performed in a specialized way to minimize the recurrence rate.. To promote healthy eyes and maximize the results of surgery, patients should wear sunglasses that offer UV protection, even on days when the sun is not shining brightly.
To have your eyes examined for Pterygium or just to assess eye health, contact us in Laguna Hills for your consultation.
