Pterygium Surgery
Advanced treatment to safely remove “surfer’s eye,” relieve irritation, and restore clear, comfortable vision.
What is a Pterygium?
When is Pterygium Surgery Needed?
Pterygium surgery may be recommended if:
- The growth begins to encroach on the cornea and threatens your vision.
- You experience persistent redness, discomfort, or irritation.
- The pterygium recurs frequently or grows aggressively.
- You wish to remove it for cosmetic reasons.
Dr. Shabatian evaluates each case individually and will discuss whether surgery is the best option for you.
About the Procedure
Removing the pterygium tissue from the cornea and conjunctiva.
Performing an autograft by transplanting healthy conjunctival tissue from another part of your eye to the affected area. This technique helps reduce the risk of recurrence.
Applying fine sutures or a tissue adhesive to secure the graft.
You’ll be given a local anesthetic with light sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after pterygium surgery is usually straightforward. You can expect:
- Mild discomfort, redness, or blurred vision for a few days.
- Use of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to aid healing.
- Avoidance of dusty, windy environments and sun exposure while your eye heals.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, although complete healing can take several weeks.
About Babak Shabatian – Pterygium Surgery Specialist
Pterygium is a common eye condition where a growth develops on the white part of the eye and can slowly extend toward the cornea, sometimes affecting vision and causing irritation or redness. Dr. Babak Shabatian, founder of Cali Eye Institute, provides expert evaluation and surgical treatment for pterygium patients in Torrance, Lancaster, and Ventura.
Dr. Shabatian focuses on both the medical and surgical management of pterygium, especially in cases where the growth is causing discomfort, vision disturbance, or cosmetic concern. When surgery is needed, his approach is designed to safely remove the growth while reducing the chance of it coming back.
Each case is carefully evaluated, as pterygium can vary in severity and progression. Dr. Shabatian takes time to determine the best treatment plan for each patient, whether monitoring early-stage growth or performing advanced surgical removal in more developed cases.
With extensive training in ophthalmology, including his role as Chief Resident during residency in New York and fellowship training in retinal diseases, Dr. Shabatian brings strong surgical skill and clinical judgment to every procedure.
Through Cali Eye Institute and its affiliated locations, Lancaster Eye Institute and Anacapa Vision, he provides careful, patient-focused care aimed at restoring comfort, protecting vision, and delivering long-term surgical success.
Schedule Your Consultation
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Dr. Babak Shabatian and his team are committed to providing compassionate, customized care in Torrance, Ventura, and Lancaster.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pterygium?
A pterygium, commonly known as “surfer’s eye,” is a benign, wedge-shaped growth of tissue that starts on the conjunctiva and extends onto the cornea. It is often caused by prolonged exposure to UV light, wind, dust, or dry environmental conditions.
What causes a pterygium to develop?
Pterygium typically develops due to chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, along with environmental factors such as wind, dust, and dry climates. People who spend a lot of time outdoors are at higher risk.
When is pterygium surgery needed?
Pterygium surgery may be recommended if the growth threatens vision, causes persistent irritation or redness, grows aggressively, recurs frequently, or becomes cosmetically bothersome. Dr. Shabatian evaluates each case individually to determine the best treatment approach.
Is pterygium eye surgery painful?
Pterygium surgery is generally not painful. The procedure is performed using local anesthesia with light sedation to keep you comfortable. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery but is typically well managed with prescribed medications.
How long does pterygium surgery take?
Pterygium surgery is an outpatient procedure that usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
What happens during pterygium surgery?
The procedure involves removing the pterygium tissue and performing a conjunctival autograft, where healthy tissue from another area of your eye is transplanted to reduce the risk of recurrence. The graft is secured using fine sutures or tissue adhesive.
What is recovery like after pterygium surgery?
Recovery is usually straightforward. Patients may experience mild redness, discomfort, or blurred vision for a few days. Most people return to normal activities within a few days, though complete healing can take several weeks.
Can I watch TV after pterygium surgery?
Yes, most patients can watch TV after surgery. However, it’s recommended to limit screen time initially and follow your doctor’s instructions to allow proper healing and reduce eye strain.
Where can I get pterygium treatment at Cali Eye Institute?
Pterygium evaluation and surgery are available at Cali Eye Institute locations in Torrance, Ventura, and Lancaster, offering convenient access to expert eye care across Southern California.
Does insurance cover pterygium surgery?
Pterygium surgery is typically covered by medical insurance when it is medically necessary, such as when vision is affected or symptoms are significant. Coverage details can be reviewed during your consultation.