Pterygium Grew Back

[bradio]

Dear Dr.,I had my pterygium removed from left eye, and a graft stiched on to bare spot from under the eyelid. I was assured it would probably not come back, but it did 3 months later  with a vengence, growing right on top of the graft. Now it is even worse than before as it is really thick and red. Does this sound normal? Or does it border on Malpractice? Do you think it can be removed again, now that it is on top of the skin graft? Thanks


This discussion is related to PTERYGIUM REMOVAL.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

I suggest the cornea specialists at UCLA and USC medical centers.

JCH MD

[lanner1]

My husband has had 8 surgeries, between the left and right eye, and the pterygium is back and worse.
how can we find the MOST QUALIFIED and successful doctor?  his eyes really can't affor more surgeries - so he is holding off getting it removed because he is, well, affraid.
We live in southern california but will travel as long as we are certain the doctor is experienced in NIGHTMARE cases, as 2 seperate doctors have called it.
thanks!!!!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

No matter what technique used or how skilled the surgeon pterygiums have a significant chance to reoccur. They are like dandilions or crabgrass  hard to kill and often come back.

If you have confience in your Eye MD discuss a second procedure. If you find a Eye MD with a specialiaty in cornea and external disease.

Find one aat www.aao.org

JCH IMD

[AnnaE]

10-15% grow back.You can do a search of our archives on the topic. The doctor will answer you soon.