Pterygium Treatment in Brisbane

Pterygium treatment in BrisbaneA pterygium is a slightly raised, wedge-shaped growth containing blood vessels that appears on the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the front of the eye. Though any type of growth on the eye can be a cause for concern, pterygia are noncancerous and, in many cases, painless. With the care of a qualified doctor like Dr Joshua Hann, a pterygium can be treated with a short, straightforward surgical procedure and should not grow back.

Pterygium Causes

Doctors are not completely sure what causes pterygia, but they do know that the growths are more common in people who are frequently exposed to sunlight, dust, sand and wind. Those who work outside or are avid surfers or fishers, for example, are more likely to develop pterygia than those who spend most of their time indoors.

Signs and Symptoms

Pterygia are visually noticeable but usually painless. They may be transparent or opaque, depending on how advanced the growth is. Sometimes a pterygium can cause eye irritation, burning or the sensation that a speck of dust or debris is caught in the eyes. Pterygia that get big enough to cover and distort the cornea can interfere with vision.

Pterygium Treatment

Small pterygia that do not interfere with vision or cause irritation do not require treatment. Mild inflammation from a pterygium can be alleviated with lubricating eye drops or ointment.

If you have a pterygium that is uncomfortable or unsightly or impacts your visual clarity, Dr Hann can surgically remove it with a short, safe procedure. He has advanced training in pterygium surgery, and thanks to the modern techniques he uses, the growths generally do not reoccur.

During pterygium removal, the eye is completely numbed to prevent any pain. Dr Hann makes precise incisions and carefully removes the growth. He may also remove healthy tissue from another part of the eye and transplant it to the areas from which the pterygium was removed. This encourages optimal healing with minimal post-operative discomfort.

Redness and mild inflammation are common right after surgery, but subside quickly. Dr Hann prescribes anti-inflammation eye drops and topical antibiotics to further reduce the risk of complications after surgery. Patients are asked to wear an eye patch over the treated eye for approximately 24 hours after the procedure. Most are able to resume their daily routine as soon as the day after surgery.

Preventing the Recurrence of a Pterygium

Pterygium removalSun protection and protection from other elements like dust or wind is critical after pterygium removal. Dr Hann recommends wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat whenever spending time outdoors. Ensuring a robust, healthy tear film is also important. Dr Hann can provide recommendations for maintaining good tear quality and quantities.

If you had a pterygium removed and notice your symptoms have returned, please contact Dr Hann promptly to request an evaluation.

Call or Email Eastside Eye Specialist Care

With advanced training in the medical and surgical management of cornea disease, cataracts and glaucoma, Dr Hann is imminently qualified to care for pterygia. To request a consultation with him to discuss any concerning growths, please call or email our office today.

Book a Consultation

Do you want to restore your vision and see clearly again? Then it’s time you spoke to a specialist.

With years of experience diagnosing and treating corneal conditions, Dr Hann can recommend and provide the right treatment for you.

So for personalised treatment advice, email info@eastsideeye.com.au to book your first consultation today.

Keratoconus Treatment

Keratoconus occurs when your cornea bulges conically, distorting your vision. Some cases can be treated with glasses or specialised contact lenses. Others may benefit from corneal cross linking or surgery – usually corneal grafting. Each case is unique, so it’s important to discover the severity, stability, and progression of yours so you can select the most appropriate treatment. To discuss your options, make an appointment today.

DMEK FOR FUCHS ENDOTHELIAL DYSTROPHY

DMEK—Clear Your Vision

The procedure clears your vision by transplanting a donor disc of specalised pump cells onto the back of your cornea. This layer of cells is less than 20% of the width of a single human hair. It is therefore delicate surgery of the most microscopic, requiring great precision and is offered by Eastside Eye’s Dr Joshua Hann.

DMEK—Your Vision in Safe Hands

Dr Joshua Hann first trained in DMEK in Australia before undergoing further training in the Netherlands by the ophthalmologist who invented the technique—Professor Gerrit Melles. He continues to refine his technique as with all other aspects of his repertoire by undergoing ongoing training and updating himself with the latest research.

DMEK—The Procedure

Like with all surgery undertaken through Eastside Eye Specialist Care, we value your clear understanding and having all questions answered. Information is provided about the surgery details themselves. DMEK is a day procedure like most eye surgery, with the emphasis on excellence, safety, and patient comfort. Post-operative care instructions will be provided when booking for surgery. For more information, contact us today.

Treatments for Scarring
Your cornea can become scarred through inherited disease, infection, or injury. It will often interfere with your vision. Treatments for corneal scarring include superficial scar removal with keratectomy, laser, or a DALK/PK corneal transplant. To discuss the most appropriate treatment for you, arrange an appointment today.
Corneal Infections (Keratitis)
Corneal infections are rare but when they do occur, usually relate to contact lens wear or after inadvertent abrasions, sometimes from plant-based or other material. As some infections can threaten your vision, it’s important to get your eye examined without delay. book an appointment today.
Pterygium

Pterygium is pink, fleshy growth across your cornea from the white part of your eye (sclera) that’s caused by sun damage. Unsightly and irritating, pterygium can also threaten your vision, so it’s important to see if it requires surgical removal.(picture). At Eastside Eye we provide surgical treatment with a modern approach that optimises appearance, reduces recurrence, and limits post-operative pain. For diagnosis and treatment, consultation at Eastside Eye today.