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Dr David Gunn
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Pterygium Surgery in Brisbane

Restore the health and appearance of your eyes with advanced, 'no-stitch' pterygium removal. Experience a faster recovery and world-class cosmetic results with a fellowship-trained corneal specialist.

Book Your Pterygium Assessment

What is a Pterygium?

A pterygium (often called "Surfer's Eye") is a non-cancerous, fleshy growth that develops on the white of the eye (the conjunctiva) and can grow onto the clear central window of the eye (the cornea). While they are benign, they can become inflamed, unsightly, and—if left untreated—can permanently distort your vision.

Queensland has one of the highest rates of pterygium in Australia due to intense UV exposure. Pterygium affects up to 7% of Queenslanders, particularly those who spend time outdoors.

Common Signs and Symptoms:

  • Persistent Redness: An "angry," bloodshot appearance on the inner or outer corner of the eye.
  • Chronic Irritation: A gritty, burning, or "foreign body" sensation.
  • Visual Distortion: Blurred vision or induced astigmatism as the growth pulls on the cornea.
  • Cosmetic Concerns: Noticeable yellow or pink tissue that creates an uneven eye appearance.
  • Interference with Contact Lenses: Discomfort or poor fit due to the raised surface of the growth.
Steps of pterygium surgery showing excision, donor graft harvesting, and micro-suture placement.

How We Treat Pterygium: The Specialist Advantage

Traditional pterygium surgery often used sutures (stitches), which could be scratchy and painful for weeks. Dr. Gunn utilizes a "game-changing" No-Stitch Technique.

As a fellowship-trained corneal specialist, Dr. David Gunn utilizes a sophisticated microsurgical approach designed to minimize pain and virtually eliminate the risk of the growth returning.

Conjunctival Autograft

After removing the pterygium, Dr. Gunn transplants a small, healthy piece of your own tissue to the site. This acts as a barrier to prevent the growth from coming back.

Fibrin Tissue Glue

Instead of stitches, we use a biological 'glue' (fibrin sealant) to secure the graft. This results in a smoother eye surface and a significantly more comfortable recovery.

Tenon's Tissue Removal

Dr. Gunn performs a meticulous removal of the underlying 'Tenon's' tissue, which is the gold standard for achieving the lowest possible recurrence rates.

Why Choose Our Premium Approach?

Exceptionally Low Recurrence

Our technique carries a recurrence rate of approximately 1 in 1000—far superior to traditional 'bare sclera' methods.

Improved Cosmetics

The goal is a clear, white eye that looks as though the pterygium was never there.

Patient Comfort

Surgery is performed under heavy twilight sedation, meaning you are essentially asleep and will have no memory of the procedure.

Why Consult Dr. David Gunn?

"Pterygium surgery is a delicate surface procedure. Dr. David Gunn's expertise as a corneal specialist is vital because he understands the microscopic architecture of the eye's surface better than a generalist."

RANZCO Gold Medalist & National Technology Pioneer

Fellowship-Trained Corneal & Refractive Surgeon

Personalized Care: All assessments and surgeries performed by Dr. Gunn personally

What You Can Expect

1. Your Consultation

A 45-minute assessment where Dr. Gunn will measure the size and activity of the pterygium using high-resolution photography to determine if surgery is necessary.

HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHY

2. The Procedure

A safe, day-hospital procedure taking 20–30 minutes per eye. Performed under high-powered surgical microscope with heavy twilight sedation for complete comfort.

MICROSURGICAL APPROACH

3. Recovery & Results

Most patients experience a 'scratchy' feeling for 1–2 days. You can typically return to office work within a few days. The eye may remain red for 2–6 weeks as it heals.

RAPID RETURN TO WORK

Pterygium Surgery FAQs

Will the pterygium grow back?
With older techniques, recurrence rates were as high as 50%. With Dr. Gunn’s modern autograft and glue technique, the chance of the pterygium returning is extremely low (less than 1%).
Is pterygium surgery covered by health insurance?
Yes. Pterygium surgery is typically covered by **Bronze level hospital cover** and above. There is usually no gap on the hospital fees, and the cost of the surgical glue is included. We provide a full quote during your consultation.
Pterygium Surgery Cost Brisbane
Pterygium removal surgery is covered by Medicare and private health insurance when deemed medically necessary. Out of pocket costs depend on your insurance. When you see Dr Gunn for a consultation you will be provided with a detailed quote.
Can I have both eyes done at once?
For safety and to maximize your insurance rebates, we typically operate on one eye at a time. The second eye can usually be scheduled as soon as one week later.
Is a pterygium cancerous?
No, a pterygium is a benign growth. However, because they are caused by UV damage, it is important to have them assessed by a specialist to ensure no other surface conditions are present.

Ready for a clearer, more comfortable eye?

Living in Queensland means higher UV exposure. If you've noticed a growth on your eye, book a specialist assessment with Dr Gunn.

Book Your Pterygium Assessment

Written and reviewed by Dr David Gunn FRANZCO, FWCRS — Corneal, Cataract and Refractive Surgeon.
Last reviewed: 1 May 2026

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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