Pterygium surgery is performed to remove a pterygium, a benign growth of tissue on the conjunctiva that can extend onto the cornea, causing irritation, vision problems, and potential scarring. The procedure involves excising the growth and, in some cases, covering the area with a graft of the patient’s own tissue or donor tissue to prevent recurrence.

Pterygium surgery is typically recommended when the growth interferes with vision, causes chronic irritation, or threatens to damage the cornea. The procedure can significantly reduce symptoms and improve the appearance of the eye.

The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks.