Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition in which your eye muscles, eyelids, tears glands, and tissue behind the eyes become inflamed. This causes your eyes to become red, swollen, and be pushed forward, creating a bulging look. In more severe cases, swelling may be so significant that it causes your eyes to no longer move in line with each other.
Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe certain eye medications to treat your TED, including drops or ointment. In many cases, surgery is required to correct the side effects of the condition. Some of the surgical options include:
Orbital decompression surgery
Dr. Vargason can create more space behind the eyes to ease pressure on the surrounding nerve during this surgical procedure. The incisions will be placed along the crease of the eyes, leaving any scar imperceptible. Orbital decompression can help your eyes close more comfortably and protect them from outside particles and irritation. It is an outpatient procedure that can be completed in about two hours.
Strabismus surgery
During this outpatient surgery, the muscles around the eyes are adjusted to help patients experiencing double vision caused by TED. Recommendation for this procedure requires an expert in TED, such as Dr. Vargason, to refer you to a strabismus specialist. Most patients experience significant improvement with this surgery.
Eyelid surgery
Eyelid surgery requires a surgeon with a deep understanding of the area. TED can cause significant changes in this delicate area. Dr. Vargason can help restore your eyes to their natural shape while also adjusting eyelids to better protect your eyes. This is an outpatient procedure that can be completed in one to two hours for most patients.
