Pterygium questions, answered

The goal is to remove the pterygium and leave the white of the eye looking clear and natural, while lowering the chance that it grows back.

The pterygium is removed and a thin graft of your own tissue (an autograft) is placed over the area. The graft is secured with biologic glue instead of stitches. Your eye is numbed with drops.

With your Free VIP Photo and/or Video Consult. Send us photos of your eye and your questions, and we review your goals and next steps.

Yes. It is done in our office with numbing drops. Sedation is used only for extensive recurrence or for children.

Pterygium surgery is $175 per eye per month for 24 months for qualified applicants. It includes follow-ups, HELLO dry eye treatments and one-year regrowth coverage, along with all exams, measurements, surgeon’s and anesthetist’s fees, 24 months of follow-up, all fine-tunings and enhancements, and the drops needed for surgery.

Sometimes. If a pterygium affects your vision or causes astigmatism, it may be medically necessary and covered. Removal for appearance alone is usually out of pocket. We accept PPO plans only. We do not accept HMO plans or Medi-Cal.

Recurrence is possible after any pterygium removal. The autograft technique, UV protection, dryness control and using your drops as directed all help reduce that risk, and your price includes one-year regrowth coverage.

If the pterygium grows back within one year, your regrowth coverage includes an injection of mitomycin C (MMC), a redo excision and a new graft.

Many people return to desk work within days. Redness fades over the following weeks. Your recovery guide has the drop and ointment schedule.

Recurrence, scarring, infection, graft problems and a flare of dryness. Your surgeon reviews these with you before you decide.

Often, yes. Tell us about your previous surgery during your Free VIP Photo and/or Video Consult so we can plan the right approach.