Pterygium surgery involves removing a fleshy, benign growth (pterygium) from the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye. The procedure is performed when the growth causes chronic irritation, redness, or begins to affect vision by encroaching upon the cornea. Although the surgery is quick, the post-operative recovery phase is a period of heightened vulnerability. Adherence to instructions is necessary for success and to minimize recurrence risk. Post-operative care focuses on preventing infection, avoiding mechanical disruption, and managing inflammation.
Preventing Direct Trauma and Strain
Physical stress or pressure on the eye must be avoided during the initial recovery period to allow the tissue to integrate correctly. The most direct form of trauma is eye rubbing, which can easily dislodge a delicate conjunctival graft or disrupt the sutures used during the procedure, potentially leading to bleeding or a breakdown of the surgical repair. Patients should avoid touching the operated eye entirely, often wearing a protective shield while sleeping for the first one to two weeks to prevent inadvertent contact.
Activities that increase pressure within the head or chest, such as the Valsalva maneuver, must be limited to prevent increased pressure within the eye and potential bleeding at the surgical site. This includes heavy lifting (over 10 to 30 pounds) for up to two weeks following surgery. Strenuous exercise, intense yoga, or bending over below the waist should be avoided for two to three weeks to prevent undue blood flow and pressure changes. Contact sports are restricted for a full month to eliminate the risk of a direct blow to the healing eye.
Shielding the Eye from External Irritants
Protecting the surgical site from environmental factors is a significant focus of post-operative care, as these can introduce pathogens or cause irritation that hinders healing. Water contamination from public or natural sources poses a major threat, and patients must strictly avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans for a minimum of two to three weeks. These water bodies harbor bacteria and microbes that can easily cause a severe eye infection in the freshly operated tissue.
During routine hygiene, prevent tap water or soap from entering the eye for at least one week by avoiding direct showering to the face or washing hair by tilting the head back. Minimize exposure to dusty, smoky, or excessively windy environments for several weeks, as airborne debris can irritate the surface and increase infection risk. Protective eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses, is highly recommended outdoors to block foreign objects, reduce light sensitivity, and shield the eye from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a known factor in pterygium recurrence.
Restrictions on Cosmetics and Eye Products
The application of cosmetics and other topical products near the eye is restricted to prevent the introduction of bacteria and chemical irritants to the surgical wound. Eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, must be avoided for at least one to two weeks after the procedure. These products are a common source of bacterial contamination and can shed small particles that irritate the sensitive ocular surface.
Creams, lotions, and facial moisturizers should not be applied close to the eye area for the same period. Their chemical components may interfere with healing or cause inflammation if they seep into the eye.
When cleared to resume using makeup, patients should discard old products and purchase new ones. Old mascara wands and brushes can harbor accumulated bacteria, and using fresh products minimizes the chance of reintroducing pathogens to the newly healed tissue.