Surfer’s Eye (Pterygium): When to Watch It—and When to Treat It

By Your Health Magazine

If you love the outdoors—especially the beach or bright sunny days—you might notice a growth on your eye known as pterygium, or “surfer’s eye.” While it might sound alarming, most cases are manageable, and understanding when to monitor it versus when to seek treatment can help protect your vision and comfort.

What Is a Surfer’s Eye?

Pterygium appears as a fleshy, pink patch on the white part of the eye, sometimes growing onto the cornea. It’s usually triangular or wedge-shaped and can occur in one or both eyes. The condition is often associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight, wind, dust, and saltwater, which explains why it’s common among surfers, sailors, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Symptoms to Watch For

Many people with a pterygium don’t experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

Redness and inflammation
Eye irritation or a gritty feeling
Dryness
Blurred vision if the growth starts to cover the cornea

Not all pterygia grow quickly. Some remain small and harmless for years, while others can gradually enlarge, potentially affecting vision.

When to Watch

In most cases, pterygium can be monitored rather than immediately treated. You should consider watchful waiting if:

The growth is small and not causing discomfort
Vision remains clear
The eye isn’t red or inflamed

During this period, protective measures can help slow growth:

Wear sunglasses with UV protection
Use lubricating eye drops to reduce dryness and irritation
Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh environmental elements

Regular eye exams are crucial to ensure the pterygium isn’t progressing toward the cornea.

When to Treat

Treatment may become necessary if the pterygium:

Affects vision by covering the cornea
Causes persistent irritation or chronic redness
Grows rapidly or changes in appearance

Non-Surgical Options

For mild symptoms, doctors may recommend:

Anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce redness and swelling
Lubricating drops for dryness and discomfort

Surgical Options

If the pterygium interferes with vision or causes significant discomfort, surgery may be the best option. Most pterygium surgeries are outpatient procedures, and today’s techniques significantly reduce recurrence. Doctors may also apply tissue grafts or medications to help stop it from coming back.
If you want to do laser eye surgery Brisbane, you first need to fix your surfers eye and wait at least 1 year before you can do this type of surgery.

Prevention Tips

While not all pterygia can be prevented, these steps can reduce your risk:

Wear broad-spectrum UV sunglasses whenever outdoors
Use a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection
Keep eyes moist with artificial tears
Avoid exposure to dusty, windy environments without eye protection

Bottom Line

Surfer’s eye is common, especially for those with frequent sun and wind exposure, but it’s usually manageable. Regular monitoring, protective measures, and timely treatment when necessary can keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. If you notice changes in growth or persistent discomfort, consult your eye doctor—early intervention can make all the difference.