Remove Irritating Eye Growths and Protect
Your Vision With
Pterygium Surgery
Enjoy a Brighter, Sharper World With Cali Eye
What Is Pterygium Surgery?
Pterygium surgery is a procedure performed to remove a pterygium, a non-cancerous growth that develops on the white part of the eye and may extend onto the cornea. Surgery is typically recommended when the growth causes persistent irritation, affects vision, continues to enlarge, or creates cosmetic concerns.
The primary goal of pterygium surgery is to remove the abnormal tissue while preserving the health of the eye and reducing the likelihood of recurrence. During the procedure, the pterygium is carefully removed, and advanced surgical techniques, often including a conjunctival graft, are used to promote healing and improve long-term outcomes.
Pterygium surgery can help:
- Remove the abnormal tissue growth
- Relieve chronic irritation and discomfort
- Restore a clearer, healthier appearance to the eye
- Prevent vision changes caused by corneal involvement
- Reduce the risk of future progression and recurrence
Modern surgical techniques have significantly improved both healing and long-term success rates, allowing many patients to enjoy greater comfort, improved eye health, and a lower chance of the pterygium returning.
How Pterygium Surgery Is Performed
Pterygium surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Eye Preparation
The eye is numbed using anesthetic drops and medication to maximize comfort during the procedure.
Removal of the Pterygium
The abnormal tissue is carefully removed from the surface of the eye and cornea.
Surface Reconstruction
To reduce recurrence and encourage healthy healing, a tissue graft is commonly placed over the treatment area.
Begin Recovery
Once the procedure is complete, the eye is protected and post-operative instructions are provided.
When Is Pterygium Surgery Recommended?
Not every pterygium requires surgery. However, surgical treatment may be appropriate when the growth begins causing symptoms or threatens vision.
Your doctor may recommend surgery if:
- The pterygium continues to grow
- Vision becomes blurred or distorted
- The growth begins extending onto the cornea
- Persistent redness or irritation occurs
- Contact lenses become difficult to wear
- Eye discomfort interferes with daily activities
- Vision that can no longer be adequately corrected with glasses
A comprehensive eye examination can determine whether surgical removal is the best treatment option.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before recommending pterygium surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate the size, location, and severity of the growth, as well as its impact on your vision and overall eye health. This detailed assessment helps determine whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment and allows us to develop a personalized surgical plan based on your individual needs.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your symptoms, answer your questions, and explain what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. Advanced diagnostic testing may also be performed to assess whether the pterygium has affected the cornea or is causing vision changes.
Your pre-surgical evaluation may include:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination – Evaluates your overall eye health and the condition of the ocular surface.
- Corneal Evaluation – Examines the cornea for distortion, scarring, or changes caused by the pterygium.
- Vision Testing – Measures your visual acuity and determines whether the growth is affecting your vision.
- Measurement of Pterygium Growth – Assesses the size and extent of the tissue to assist with surgical planning.
- Review of Symptoms and Medical History – Discusses your symptoms, previous eye conditions, medications, and general health.
- Treatment Discussion – Reviews your surgical options, expected outcomes, recovery process, and answers any questions you may have.
This comprehensive evaluation ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your condition and helps optimize both surgical results and long-term eye health.
Recovery After Pterygium Surgery
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but most individuals experience gradual improvement during the healing process.
First Few Days
During the first several days, you may notice mild discomfort, redness, light sensitivity, tearing, or temporarily blurred vision. These symptoms are a normal part of the healing process and gradually improve as the eye recovers.
First Few Weeks
The surface of the eye continues to heal, and redness and inflammation steadily decrease. You’ll continue using prescribed eye drops to support healing, reduce inflammation, and help minimize the chance of the pterygium returning.
Long-Term Recovery
Over the following weeks and months, the appearance of the eye continues to improve, and most patients experience greater comfort and clearer vision. Regular follow-up visits allow your ophthalmologist to monitor your recovery, ensure proper healing, and watch for any signs of recurrence. Many patients are pleased with both the functional and cosmetic results of their surgery.
Benefits of Pterygium Surgery
Relieves Eye Irritation
Surgery helps reduce the chronic redness, burning, and irritation caused by a pterygium.
Protects Your Vision
Removing the growth can help prevent it from extending onto the cornea and affecting visual clarity.
Improves Eye Comfort
Many patients experience greater comfort during reading, driving, computer use, and other everyday activities.
Restores a Healthier Appearance
Removing the pterygium reduces the visible growth and redness, improving the cosmetic appearance of the eye.
Supports Long-Term Eye Health
Modern surgical techniques help preserve the health of the cornea and reduce the risk of future complications.
Reduces the Risk of Recurrence
Advanced surgical methods are designed to lower the likelihood of the pterygium returning and promote long-term results.
Serving Torrance, Lancaster & Ventura
Cali Eye Institute is proud to offer advanced surfer eye care across multiple locations in Southern California, making it easier for patients to access expert treatment close to home.
- Torrance – Cali Eye Institute
- Lancaster – Lancaster Eye Institute
- Ventura – Anacapa Vision
Across all locations, our experienced ophthalmologists use the latest technology, including laser-assisted techniques, to provide precise, personalized care. We focus on understanding your unique vision needs and guiding you through every step of the process to help achieve the best possible outcome.
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
Rediscover sharp, vivid vision with advanced cataract surgery at Cali Eye Institute.
Dr. Babak Shabatian and his team are committed to providing compassionate, customized care in Torrance, Ventura, and Lancaster.
Why Choose Cali Eye for Pterygium Surgery?
Experienced Eye Surgeons
Our ophthalmologists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating pterygium and other ocular surface conditions.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
We utilize modern surgical approaches designed to achieve excellent outcomes while minimizing recurrence risk.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Every patient’s condition is unique. We tailor treatment recommendations based on the size of the pterygium, symptoms, and overall eye health.
Comprehensive Follow-Up Care
Post-operative care plays an important role in recovery. Our team provides ongoing monitoring and support throughout the healing process.
Convenient Locations
With offices in Torrance, Lancaster, and Ventura, accessing expert laser cataract care is simple and convenient.
Patient-Focused Experience
We believe informed patients make confident decisions. We take the time to answer questions and guide patients through every step of treatment.
Office Information
Cali Eye Institute, Torrance, CA
19000 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 100
Torrance, CA 90503
Tel: 310-909-8880
Office Hours
Monday-Thursday: 8:30am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
Lancaster Eye Institute, Lancaster, CA
1739 W Avenue J
Lancaster, CA 93534
Tel: (661) 940-0555
Office Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am-5:00pm
Friday: 8:30am-4:30pm
Anacapa Vision, Ventura, CA
1280 S. Victoria Ave., Ste. 160
Ventura, CA 93003-6504
Tel: (805) 658-3937
Office Hours
Mondays and Fridays: 8am-3pm
Tuesdays - Thursday: 8am-4pm
What Our Patients Are Saying:
We Are Members of:
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
