Graves Disease, Can Surgery Fix my Eyes?

I have just been diagnosed with Graves Disease. My eyes are gritty, itchy and swollen/bulging. I can also see a yellowish build up at the outside corner of my eyes... can I get surgery so I can get back my natural looking eyes as I am so unhappy with my 'staring' look.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by vickstar

Doctor Answers (5)
Community Comments (1)

Help is available for Thyroid Eye Disease

Graves' disease can make the eyes bulge (proptosis), and it can also make the eyes open too widely (eyelid retraction). In some cases Graves' disease can disturb the muscles which move the eyes (restrictive strabismus) and cause double vision. In a small percentage of cases the sight can be damaged by compression of the optic nerve. The good news is that specialists who frequently treat patients with thyroid eye disease can really do a lot to help. The... more

Graves disease

Graves disease can affect the eyes, with proptosis (buldy eyes) and eyelid retraction, among others. Surgery is usually delayed until the eye/orbit component of the disease has been stable for a few months. The first stage surgery is orbital decompression, followed by muscle surgery (if necessary), followed by eyelid surgery. Consult an oculoplastic surgeon.

Staring look of Graves' Disease

I agree you have the classic stare of Graves' Disease. The management of this condition with the eyes is very complex, and has to be individualized for each patient. Particular attention needs to be paid to where you are in the course of the disease process, as it typically ends after 1-2 years. During that time you are "active" with inflammation and discomfort. There is progression of the manifestations, including lid retraction, proptosis (bulging of... more

Graves disease

Yes, you ultimately should be able to have correction for the sequelae of thyroid eye disease. The key is to wait until the disease is stable and active inflammation has subsided. In the interim, you should be examined by an oculoplastic surgeon to watch for any signs of vision change, double vision or dry eye.

Graves Disease, Can Surgery Fix my Eyes?

Dear Vickstar, There is surgery available to reconstruct your eyelids. The main question is when is the best time. Consult an Oculoplastic surgeon for the best advice.

Sam Goldberger, MD

12 reviews

Beverly Hills Oculoplastic Surgeon

www.neweyelids.com

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Comments (1)

Amy Nicole 25 3 Sep 2012

Yes--you can get surgery. I had the same issue and was really self-conscious and depressed about it. I went to a doctor in NYC and he did a wonderful job. They basically cut the muscles that retract your eyelids so they don't lift up so far. Insurance may even cover it if you are diagnosed with a thyroid problem.

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