Is a thick eyelid common after undergoing pterygium surgery?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a question. My uncle had pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft surgery on his right eye. He was given Ofloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3% drops for eyes. After using the drop 4 times a day for 4 days, things did not seem right. After peeling the label of the bottle he saw, he was given Ofloxacin otic solution 0.3% for ears only. I am wondering if this could have caused the issues. He is currently having a feeling as though his eyelid is thick, heavy as well as very dry. And also he is feeling as though there is a film over his eye. Do you think this could have caused permanent damage? Presently he is taking medicines for high blood pressure and cholesterol. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The cause for his present complaint is due to the surgical trauma induced by the surgery. In pterygium surgery, the mass of tissue is cut and scraped off and then a graft is placed to cover the defect. Our eyes are so sensitive, that even when an eyelash accidentally falls in the eye, it becomes so uncomfortable. Now a whole area has been actually cut and the graft sutured, so definitely, until the healing is completed the symptoms of heaviness, dryness will continue. This usually takes about a month to heal. Regarding the eye drop, I do not think it should matter much. If you can change it easily for any ophthalmic drop, then it will be better. I hope I have addressed your concerns. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions. Thank you.