Although most pterygia are harmless and can be left alone safely; they are surgically removed for the following reasons: Discomfort: If a pterygium is causing excessive irritation due to dryness / inflammation or a persistent foreign body sensation.

Dr. Tandon will meet with you, examine you, and discuss all the possible complications, answer all of your questions, and perform the surgery. Dr. Tandon, MD, PhD is a trained eye physician and surgeon from Stanford University. She is a board certified ophthalmologist. See similar questions...

Yes. Postoperative prescriptions are provided well in advance of surgery day so you arrive home completely prepared. Postoperative prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for pterygium patients include the following: Pain medication (usually Vicodin hydrocodone) to minimize any discomfort following surgery and antibiotic ophthalmic ointment (Polysporin bacitracin ophthalmic) to place gently in the operated eye. See similar questions...

Pterygium surgery is very successful. However, the recurrence rate is often as high as 30 to 40 percent and they tend to come back bigger and faster. See similar questions...

No, the best patients are those who are healthy, psychologically stable and well motivated. Some medical conditions may increase the risk of pterygium surgery. Patients with significant eye problems like glaucoma or dry eyes may not be eligible. Uncontrolled high blood pressure or thyroid disease is also of concern. Through consultation and examination, we can determine if you're a candidate for this rewarding procedure. See similar questions...

If pterygium is interfering in your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as a "medically necessary" surgery. Before surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye examination. Photographs are often required by insurance companies before surgery to determine if the procedure is medically necessary. Final decision is made by your insurance carrier after reviewing your condition. Pingueculum surgery is not covered by insurance unless there is a medical necessity. See similar questions...

Most of the time there is no visible scar after the healing is complete. Once healed, the hairline scars will fade. See similar questions...

Surgery is the only way to remove a pterygium, but the results can be disappointing. Even with modern techniques, the recurrence rate is often as high as 30 to 40 percent and they tend to come back bigger and faster. See similar questions...

Pterygium surgery is usually performed by giving small local anesthesia injection to numb the tissues. Generally there is no pain during surgery. If you are very nervous, you will be given a Valium pill to help you relax. A light intravenous sedation may also be given. Patients are awake during surgery. Patients do not hear or feel anything and are comfortable during surgery. Pterygium surgery is commonly done on an outpatient basis. See similar questions...

Your eyes will be patched closed. After surgery, patients usually spend at least one day resting with their head elevated on a pillow and often apply ice packs to reduce swelling. Some patients report a dull headache and tenderness or discomfort. You may also experience temporary numbness. See similar questions...

New techniques have significantly reduced healing times. However, each patient's healing time varies with the type of procedure performed, medical history and physical health. You can expect to go to your work place after a week. See similar questions...

We see all surgery patients one day after the surgery. Further follow-up will depend upon your individual condition and schedule. Dr. Tandon will be available to see you in the office, if necessary. There is no charge for future visits after surgery. See similar questions...

Generally, you need surgery when the cataracts have advanced to a point where your vision interferes with your life style. As long as you can do what you want to do, you do not have to have surgery. See similar questions...

The reasons are endless, but most people feel a strong need to be less dependent on optical devices for vision. This may be because of occupational reasons, such as police officers and fire fighters. It may be desirable to participate actively in sports in which glasses and contact lenses can sometimes be a hindrance. It may be for cosmetic reasons, because patients feel that they do not look their best in glasses and cannot wear contact lenses. See similar questions...

Yes. It should be noted that a significant number of men and women of all ages elect to have pterygium surgery. See similar questions...

There is no correct age for obtaining pterygium surgery. If you are in good health without serious eye problems, your age alone should not keep you from having this procedure. See similar questions...

All surgeries have some risks. If performed by a competent surgeon, complications are infrequent and minor. The vast majority of these operations go perfectly well with excellent results and happy patients. All patients will experience some bruising and swelling for a few days after the surgery. Any surgery has some risk of bleeding and infection. Dr. Tandon will discuss any possible risks with you before surgery is done, and answer all of your questions. Visual impairment is extremely rare. See similar questions...

At NeoVision Eye Center, we believe the fairest approach is to offer pterygium surgery for one Flat Fee. That is why we offer one global comprehensive fee, which includes all pre-operative, surgical, and post-operative care. A price estimate will be given at your consultation for pterygium surgery. Fees reflect the specific problem that you have and the extent of surgery to correct it. See similar questions...

Most of these operations are cosmetic in nature and are not covered by insurance. If pterygium is interfering in your field of vision, the procedure may be covered as a "medically necessary" surgery and some insurance plans will pay for all or part of the surgery. Pinguecula are generally not covered by insurance unless there is a medical reason. Patients should check with their insurance carrier about their coverage. See similar questions...