Vision conditions
Pterygium: Cornea growth
Pterygium is a flesh‑coloured tissue growth that starts on the white of the eye and can extend towards the cornea. It may cause redness, irritation, or blurred vision if it grows over the clear front surface. An eye examination helps determine whether monitoring or treatment is needed.
How Pterygium develops on the eye
Understanding cornea‑reaching growths
Pterygium is a non‑cancerous overgrowth of the conjunctiva that can spread onto the cornea, often forming a triangular or wing‑shaped patch of tissue. It is commonly linked to long‑term exposure to sunlight, wind, and dry or dusty environments. Protecting the eyes and seeking timely review can help reduce irritation and prevent vision from being affected.
Adults in sunny climates — relatively common
Pterygium occurs more often in people who live in hot, sunny regions and spend long hours outdoors without eye protection.
Progression risk — may reach the cornea
Some pterygia remain small, while others grow onto the cornea, potentially changing its shape and causing blurred vision or astigmatism.
Noticing changes on the eye surface
When to consider an eye evaluation
Recognizing the Signs of Pterygium
- Red, irritated, or gritty eyes
- Dryness, burning, or a feeling of something in the eye
- Blurred or distorted vision if the growth reaches the cornea
- Increasing size of a pink or fleshy growth towards the pupil
Many people first notice a visible patch or bump on the white of the eye. Other symptoms that suggest an assessment is helpful include:
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an eye examination.
Options to relieve symptoms and protect vision
Managing eye surface growth safely
Management depends on the size of the pterygium, symptoms, and whether vision is affected. After a detailed eye examination, your ophthalmologist may recommend:
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Clarifying Your Concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that vision correction is a significant decision. Here are honest, transparent answers to the questions we hear most often from our patients.
A pterygium is a benign growth of tissue on the white part of the eye that can extend onto the cornea. It is sometimes referred to as a “surfer’s eye” due to its association with sun exposure.
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, wind, dust, and dry environments are common contributing factors. It is more common in individuals who spend significant time outdoors.
Symptoms may include redness, irritation, dryness, or a visible fleshy growth on the eye. In more advanced cases, it can affect vision by distorting the cornea.
No. Many cases can be managed with lubricating drops and UV protection. Surgery is usually considered only if vision is affected, discomfort persists, or the growth progresses significantly.
Recurrence is possible. Surgical techniques aim to reduce this risk, but ongoing UV protection remains important after treatment.
No. A pterygium is a non-cancerous growth. However, any unusual or rapidly changing eye lesion should be assessed by an ophthalmologist.
Wearing UV-protective sunglasses, using lubricating drops if needed, and minimising exposure to dust and wind may help reduce irritation and progression.