Pterygium Surgery
Pterygium Surgery
Miles regularly performs pterygium surgery, a common condition within the population that he serves as a consultant.
He offers pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft (a small graft of the patients own conjunctival tissue used to cover the area where the pterygium has been removed). This reduces the risk of recurrence of this condition.
What is a Pterygium?
A pterygium is a benign growth of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It often appears as a raised, wedge-shaped spot that can grow towards the cornea (the clear window at the font of the eye), potentially affecting vision.
What is Pterygium Surgery?
Pterygium surgery involves removing the growth from the eye. It is recommended when the pterygium causes discomfort, vision problems, or cosmetic concerns.
Preparing for Surgery
Pre-Operative Assessment: You will undergo a thorough eye examination.
Medications: Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Instructions: Follow any pre-surgery guidelines provided by your healthcare team.
The Surgery Procedure
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the eye.
Growth Removal: The pterygium is carefully removed from the eye surface.
Grafting: A graft taken from another part of your healthy conjunctiva is placed over the removal site to aid healing and prevent recurrence.
Recovery After Surgery
Rest: Take it easy for the first few days and avoid strenuous activities.
Eye Drops: Use prescribed drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Follow-Up Visits: Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Protection: Wear an eye shield at night and sunglasses during the day to protect the eye.
Potential Risks and Complications
While pterygium surgery is generally safe, potential risks include infection, inflammation, recurrence of the pterygium, and changes in vision.
Benefits of Pterygium Surgery
Relief from discomfort and irritation
Improved cosmetic appearance
Prevention of further growth and vision impairment
Miles is a consultant ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon with a private practice at The London Clinic on Harley Street. He specialises in ophthalmic cosmetic, reconstructive, and lacrimal (tear drainage) surgery.
In addition to his private practice, Miles holds a substantive NHS consultant post at the Royal Free London and he established and runs the oculoplastic service at North Middlesex University Hospital. He also has expertise in cataract and pterygium surgery.
As an honorary clinical lecturer at UCL and assistant professor at St. George's University, Miles is actively involved in training the next generation of ophthalmologists.