My Eyes Have Become my Greatest Problem (photo)

Proptosis is the medical term used to describe bulgy eyes. It usually happens when the contents of the eye socket are too big for the bony volume of the eye socket. If you eyes have had this appearance your whole life, this is likely an anatomic variant that is sometimes referred to as a "shallow orbit".

This is not uncommon in the African-American demographic.

If your bulginess has increased over time, then it could be related to Thyroid Eye disease.

 

There is surgery, called Orbital decompression, than can improve the appearance of the eyes and also improve your symptoms of dryness, or tearing. This is done by expanding the volume of the orbit [eye socket] by removing some of the bony walls. This can be done by experience Oculoplastics surgeons and sometimes by Craniofacial plastic surgeons.

You can find a well trained Oculoplastics surgeon on the website ASOPRS dot org.

Do not be discouraged. Seek a consultation.

Best of luck to you.

You have proptosis.  In your case, it appears it is genetic (with shallow eye socket and poor malar/cheek bone support), although thyroid eye disease should always be considered.  When proptosis is significant enough, then one cannot properly blink or close eye completely, thereby the eyes get dry and irritated. The most effective surgical treatment is orbital decompression. Consult an oculoplastic surgeon.

Your bulging eyes are technically called exophthalmos or proptosis. It can be a congenital problem (shallow orbits) or acquired from hyperthyroidism. The ophthalmologist you went to gave you reasonable advise. To correct this typically a 3D CT scan is done as part of your work up as well as some basic tests (to rule out thyroid or other problems). Probably the  best place to be seen is at a multidisciplinary Craniofacial Team - often found in conjunction with large medical centers or University affiliated training programs. The orbital decompression/reconstruction of your orbit is complex and the opinion of the different specialists there including Plastic Surgeons and Oculoplastic Ophthalmologists would be helpful.