Your eyes are constantly exposed to environmental factors that can lead to conditions affecting vision and comfort. Two common conditions that affect the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye—are pterygium and conjunctival chalasis. While both can cause discomfort and visual disturbances, modern ophthalmic treatments can help restore eye health and comfort. At Westlake Eye Specialists, with locations in Austin, New Braunfels, and Killeen, Dr. Zarmeena Vendal and our expert team offer advanced surgical and non-surgical solutions for these conditions.
What Is a Pterygium?
A pterygium, often referred to as “surfer’s eye,” is a benign, triangular-shaped growth of tissue that extends from the conjunctiva onto the cornea. This condition is typically caused by prolonged exposure to UV light, wind, and dust.
Symptoms of Pterygium:
- A visible, fleshy growth on the white of the eye
- Redness and irritation
- Dryness or a gritty sensation
- Blurred vision (if the growth extends over the cornea)
Treatment Options for Pterygium
While mild cases may be managed with lubricating eye drops or anti-inflammatory medications, surgical removal may be necessary if the pterygium:
- Continues to grow and affects vision
- Causes persistent irritation and discomfort
- Leads to astigmatism or corneal distortion
At Westlake Eye Specialists, we offer pterygium surgery, using advanced techniques to remove the growth while minimizing the risk of recurrence. Amniotic membrane grafting or conjunctival autografting can be used to enhance healing and prevent regrowth.
What Is Conjunctival Chalasis?
Conjunctival chalasis is a condition where the conjunctiva becomes loose and wrinkled, causing irritation and discomfort. This occurs due to the natural aging process or chronic eye irritation, leading to excessive folds of tissue that disrupt the normal tear film.
Symptoms of Conjunctival Chalasis:
- A foreign body sensation in the eye
- Dryness and burning
- Watery eyes due to poor tear distribution
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
Treatment Options for Conjunctival Chalasis
Mild cases of conjunctival chalasis can often be managed with artificial tears or prescription eye drops to improve lubrication. However, if symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be recommended.
At Westlake Eye Specialists, our expert team offers conjunctival resection surgery, which removes excess conjunctival tissue and restores the normal tear film, reducing irritation and improving vision clarity.
Why Choose Westlake Eye Specialists?
With locations in Austin, New Braunfels, and Killeen, Westlake Eye Specialists provides state-of-the-art surgical and non-surgical treatments for pterygium and conjunctival chalasis. Dr. Zarmeena Vendal and our experienced team offer personalized care to help patients regain comfort and protect their vision.
If you are experiencing redness, irritation, or vision changes, don’t wait—schedule a consultation today. Visit our Pterygium Treatment page to learn more about our expert eye care services!
