Pterygium

Thickening of the skin on the front of the eye which grows from the white part towards the center

A reaction from the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun

We can prevent this from worsening by using lenses with UV protection (tinted or clear) and by using lubricating eye drops (twice daily)

In some cases it can distort the vision and reduce the vision of the eye

You can remove the thick skin with surgery, but it may grow back if you are still exposed to UV

Your medical insurance will pay for this treatment, if needed

Image of a Pterygium Causing Vision Loss

Image of a Pinguecula

A pinguecula is also a thickening of the skin on the front of the eye which grows

It is also a reaction from the damaging ultraviolet rays of the sun

We can also prevent this from worsening by using lenses with UV protection and by using lubricating eye drops (twice daily)

There are no surgical treatments for this condition (pinguecula)

Below is a video of a common type of pterygium surgery