Our eyes are constantly exposed to the elements—sunlight, wind, dust, and airborne irritants. Over time, these environmental factors can contribute to various eye conditions, one of the most visually distinctive being pterygium. While typically harmless, a pterygium can affect your comfort, appearance, and even your vision if it progresses.

Often nicknamed “surfer’s eye,” pterygium is a medical condition common amongst those who spend a lot of time outdoors. This condition serves as a reminder of why eye protection is so important.

What Is a Pterygium?

A pterygium (pronounced tuh-RIJ-ee-um) is a benign, non-cancerous growth of fibrovascular tissue that develops on the sclera, the white part of the eye. As it progresses, it can extend onto the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.

The growth typically begins on the side of the eye closest to the nose (the nasal conjunctiva) and gradually extends toward the center of the eye, forming a triangular or wedge-shaped lesion. In some cases, the growth can emerge from the outer (temporal) side instead, or even occur on both sides of the eye.

While a pterygium may start as simply a cosmetic concern, it can lead to:

• Chronic eye irritation or redness
• A sensation of grittiness or dryness
• Blurred vision if it encroaches on the central cornea
• Astigmatism due to changes in corneal curvature

Left untreated, large or fast-growing pterygia may interfere with vision and require surgical removal. However, not all cases require intervention.

What Causes a Pterygium?

The exact cause of pterygium is not fully understood, but the leading risk factor is chronic ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This is why the condition is particularly common among individuals who live in sunny climates or spend a lot of time outdoors.

Contributing Factors Also Include:

• UV radiation from sunlight (especially UV-B rays)
• Wind exposure, which can irritate and dry out the eye
• Dust and airborne particles, which cause chronic irritation
• Dry eye disease, which reduces the eye’s natural protective tear film
• Genetics, as some people may have a predisposition to developing pterygia

Why Is It Called “Surfer’s Eye”?

The nickname “surfer’s eye” comes from the high prevalence of this condition among surfers and beachgoers, who are exposed to strong sunlight, reflected UV rays from water, wind, and salt, all of which irritate the eyes. However,not just surfers are at risk; despite the name, anyone who spends long hours outdoors without adequate eye protection can develop pterygium. 

Pterygium is most commonly seen in adults over the age of 30, especially in those living near the equator or in areas with high UV index levels. It is relatively uncommon in children.

How Is a Pterygium Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is straightforward and usually confirmed during a comprehensive eye examination. Your eye doctor will:

• Visually inspect the lesion using a slit-lamp microscope
• Assess the size, thickness, and extent of corneal involvement
• Determine whether the growth is actively inflamed or stable

It is important to differentiate pterygium from a pinguecula, a related but smaller yellowish bump that does not grow onto the cornea. In rare cases, suspicious lesions may require further evaluation to rule out malignancy.

Prevention: Protecting Your Eyes

As with many eye conditions, prevention and early detection are key. The best way to protect your eyes from pterygium is by shielding them from harmful UV radiation and environmental irritants.

Protective Measures Include:

• Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays
• Choosing wraparound-style sunglasses that offer side protection from wind and dust
• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors
• Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to combat dryness and irritation
• Avoiding direct exposure to smoke, sand, and pollutants when possible

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting pterygia early, monitoring their progression, and preventing complications.

Treatment Options for Pterygium

In many cases, a pterygium does not require any treatment unless it becomes bothersome, begins to affect vision, or causes significant cosmetic concerns. If treatment is necessary, several options are available:

1. Non-Surgical Management

For mild cases, symptoms can often be managed with:

• Lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness or irritation
• Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Protective contact lenses that shield the cornea and reduce discomfort

These conservative measures help keep the condition stable and improve comfort but do not eliminate the pterygium itself.

2. Surgical Removal

Surgery may be recommended if:

• The pterygium is growing toward the pupil and threatening vision
• The growth causes significant astigmatism or distorts vision
• Persistent redness, irritation, or inflammation occurs despite conservative treatment
• The appearance is a cosmetic concern for the patient

Dr. Giulio Diamante and Associates in Johnston, Rhode Island, specializes in pterygium removal surgery using modern microsurgical techniques.

What to Expect from Surgery

• The procedure typically lasts about 20 minutes
• Local anesthesia is used for comfort
• The pterygium is excised, and the area is often covered with a conjunctival autograft (healthy tissue from the patient’s own eye) to reduce the risk of recurrence
• Recovery is relatively quick, though you may need to wear an eye patch temporarily
• Anti-inflammatory drops are prescribed to promote healing

While surgery is generally safe and effective, pterygia can recur—particularly in individuals who continue to be exposed to UV light without protection. Your doctor will work with you to minimize this risk with proper follow-up and prevention strategies.

Cosmetic Concerns

Even when vision is unaffected, many patients seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. A visible pterygium may be red, raised, or discolored.. Surgical removal in such cases is both effective and safe, offering not only aesthetic improvement but also enhanced comfort.

A pterygium may not be a serious health threat, but it is a sign that your eyes need better protection. Caused primarily by UV exposure, this fleshy growth on the eye’s surface can lead to irritation, cosmetic changes, and, in more advanced cases, vision impairment.

With proper prevention, early diagnosis, and, when necessary, professional treatment, you can protect your eye health and maintain clear, comfortable vision.

At our Johnston, RI office, Dr. Diamante and our dedicated eye care team are here to help you navigate every step—from routine checkups to advanced surgical care. If you suspect you have a pterygium or want more information about prevention and treatment options, contact us today to schedule your consultation.