Surfer’s eye can be easy to dismiss as a surface irritation, but a growing pterygium can sometimes affect more than comfort or appearance. If it begins changing the shape of the cornea, it may contribute to astigmatism, blurry vision, or changes in a glasses or contact lens prescription.

Raised in Honolulu, Jeffrey Maehara, MD, trained at Tulane Medical School and has extensive experience treating corneal and other anterior eye conditions. For patients in Hawaii who spend significant time outdoors, recognizing when a pterygium is beginning to affect vision can help guide the next step in care.

How Can Surfer’s Eye Affect Vision?

A pterygium typically grows from the white part of the eye toward the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. As the growth becomes larger, it can pull on or distort the cornea.

That change in shape may make vision less sharp or make an existing prescription less accurate. Some patients may notice that their vision seems blurry even after updating their glasses or contacts.

Can Surfer’s Eye Cause Astigmatism?

Yes, surfer’s eye can contribute to astigmatism when the growth changes the cornea’s natural curve. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped unevenly, causing light to focus improperly inside the eye.

Possible vision changes may include:

• Blurry or distorted vision
• More frequent prescription changes
• Difficulty seeing clearly at certain distances
• Increased glare or visual strain

The amount of astigmatism can vary depending on the pterygium’s size and location.

When Does a Pterygium Need Treatment?

Not every pterygium requires surgery. Smaller growths that don’t affect vision may be monitored, especially if symptoms are limited to occasional redness or irritation.

Treatment may become more appropriate when the growth:

• Continues moving toward the center of the cornea
• Causes significant irritation
• Creates noticeable astigmatism
• Leads to repeated prescription changes
• Begins interfering with daily vision

An eye exam can show whether the pterygium is changing the corneal shape enough to affect sight.

How Is Surfer’s Eye Treated?

Early management may include lubricating eye drops or other measures to reduce irritation. If a pterygium becomes large or begins affecting vision, doctors may recommend surgical removal.

The goal is to remove the abnormal tissue while preserving a smooth, clear corneal surface. Treatment recommendations depend on the size of the growth, symptoms, vision changes, and overall eye health.

Get Surfer’s Eye Evaluated in Honolulu, HI

Surfer’s eye can be more than a cosmetic concern when it changes the shape of the cornea or affects vision. Dr. Jeffrey Maehara can evaluate whether a pterygium is contributing to astigmatism or prescription changes and discuss appropriate treatment options. 

To have surfer’s eye evaluated in Honolulu, HI, call 808-955-3937 to schedule a consultation.