The best form of therapy is prevention, such as wearing hats and dark glasses or UV blocking glasses in bright sunshine. No treatment is necessary if the pterygium is not causing any noticeable problems or symptoms. Drops may aid the dryness and the intermittent inflammation associated with this condition. If clear vision is threatened by the presence of a pterygium, surgical excision is indicated. Other indications for surgery are increasing astigmatism or the desire for removal for cosmetic reasons.
Surgical removal is complicated by two factors.
Pterygia often recur, sometimes quite rapidly after removal. Certain forms of radiation therapy and drops are available to reduce this risk. Nevertheless, recurrence is a difficult problem especially in high risk climate areas. Despite adequate excision, symptoms of dryness and irritation may persist. E. Front St.