A pterygium ("surfer's eye") is a fleshy growth from the conjunctiva onto the cornea, common in sun-exposed populations across the Gulf and North Africa. The surgical technique is what governs whether it comes back: a conjunctival autograft with fibrin glue recurs substantially less often than the older bare-sclera technique that is still common in some clinics.
Why choose us
Leaving the sclera bare is the old technique and it recurs often. We use a conjunctival autograft, your own tissue glued in place, which lowers recurrence substantially. Which technique your surgeon uses is the single biggest factor in whether it comes back.
Glue fixation means less post-op irritation, faster healing, and better cosmetic result. No suture-removal visit needed.
The graft is harvested from the upper bulbar conjunctiva (under the upper lid where it's not visible). Healing is rapid and the eye looks normal within 2-4 weeks.
Pterygium is largely a sun-exposure disease. We explain UV-protection strategies (wraparound sunglasses, hats) post-op to reduce recurrence further.
Pterygium treatment map
Choose the description that fits
A fleshy growth on the white of the eye with redness, still clear of the centre
While it stays away from the visual axis the priority is to settle the surface and cut sun and dust exposure. If it starts to advance, or the redness will not settle, removal with a conjunctival autograft comes onto the table.
The growth has reached the cornea and is pulling on vision or inducing astigmatism
Once it touches the cornea, waiting leaves a mark on the surface. Covering the bed with conjunctiva from the same eye, rather than leaving bare sclera, is what keeps recurrence lower.
Removed before, now back, with scarring or redness that will not settle
Recurrence usually traces back to a first operation that left bare sclera. Here we assess the surface and how much healthy conjunctiva is available to graft before choosing the next step.
This is guidance, not a diagnosis. The slit lamp exam and corneal topography decide the timing and the technique, not this widget.
Book a pterygium assessmentProcedures & pricing
Final cost is set after clinical examination. Local-currency equivalents available on request. Insurance reports issued for international patients.
| Procedure | Best for | From (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Conjunctival autograft (no sutures) | Gold standard. Fibrin glue fixation. | $400 - $800 |
| Pterygium + amniotic membrane | For aggressive recurrent cases | $600 - $1,200 |
| Combined pterygium + cataract | Single OR session | $900 - $1,800 |
Common questions
A clear photo of the affected eye (good lighting, no flash) is enough to start. We'll respond within 24 hours with the recommended technique, the all-in cost, and a travel plan.
