Suffering from Pterygium or Carnosidad en los Ojos?

Also referred to as carnosidad en los ojos, surfer’s eye or farmer’s eye, pterygium is a relatively common condition among individuals who spend a great deal of time outside. In some cases, this growth is benign and poses no real issues for patients. Pterygium lesions typically grow toward the center of the eye. If they expand too far, these growths can interfere with the ability to see clearly. At Mattioli Vision Professionals, we offer pterygium surgery procedures designed to correct a wide range of problems. Our Houston pterygium specialists can remove these growths to ensure the health and beauty of your eyes.

Carnosidad en los ojos síntomas y tratamiento – Dr. Fred Mattioli

What Is a Pterygium?

According to the experts at the U.S. National Library of Medicine, pterygium is a benign, non-cancerous growth that begins in the conjunctiva and spreads over the white of the eye. Most cases of pterygium begin in the inner corner of the eye. While scientists have not yet determined the precise mechanism that causes pterygium to form, some risk factors have been identified:

  • Prolonged exposure to the sun
  • Residing in a sandy, dusty or windy environment

Some cases of Houston carnosidad en los ojos or pterygium may cause irritation and discomfort; others are relatively painless. Diagnosis of these growths is usually accomplished through a simple visual examination.

Symptoms of Pterygium

Most pterygium growths are visible upon initial inspection. Other symptoms of this condition include the following:

  • Itching or burning sensations
  • Dryness
  • Feeling as if there is something in your eye
  • Blurry vision
  • Redness and irritation

Larger growths can cause deformation of the cornea to cause astigmatism. Additionally, the presence of pterygium growths can sometimes block light from entering the eye, interfering with vision and requiring immediate attention from a pterygium surgery specialist.

Treatments for Pterygium

Lubricating eye drops may provide relief from itching, burning or dryness for some patients. In most cases, however, surgery is required to remove pterygium growths. These Houston, TX laser eye surgery procedures may be performed to restore an attractive appearance to the eyes, to eliminate growths that are preventing clear vision or as a proactive measure to reduce issues in the future. In most cases, Pterygium surgery involves the removal of the pterygium growths and the transplant of tissue from another part of the eye to the affected area. This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes less than an hour to complete. After your surgery, you will be asked to refrain from rubbing your eyes or swimming for up to a month. You can usually resume other activities within a few days of your surgical procedure.

Mattioli Vision Professionals specializes in Houston, TX LASIK eye surgery and other procedures designed to help you see clearly while looking your best. We deliver expert solutions tailor-made to your eye care needs. Call our office today to learn more about the services we offer and to schedule an appointment with us. We look forward to serving your eye care needs.

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Average Cost Per Pterygium  
$2,900$3,400
Recovery Time  
3-5 days
How Long It Takes  
20 minutes
Follow Up Time  
1 day, 1week, and 1 month
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Pterygium FAQ

The primary cause of pterygium is usually exposure to excessive amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light. Due to this, it is more common in areas that are constantly sunny. Additionally, people in these areas are much more susceptible to pterygium if they work in an occupation that consistently requires them to be outside, such as a farmer.

In some cases, yes, a pterygium can heal itself without any form of treatment. However, this will usually leave behind a small scar on the surface of the eye that can impair your overall vision. For this reason, it’s important to seek treatment from an experienced eye care professional.

Though it is very rare, it is possible for pterygium to cause blindness. If you think you might be experiencing the effects of pterygium, schedule a consultation at our office today to receive a diagnosis and treatment.


The content on this page has either authored or reviewed by Dr. Fred Mattioli.