How long after strabismus surgery does one need to wait before eyelid surgery?

Question

I've had a total thyroidectomy in Nov 2010. In 2012, I had separate decompressions for each eye via sinuses (ENT surgeon). 4 months later I had emergency bilateral decompression from the outside of the eye (Occuloplastic surgeon) and was told they removed as much bone as possible. 6 months later I had emergency radiation therapy and was put on steroids for the third time. In Aug 2013 and Nov 2013, I had bilateral strabismus surgery and have a third surgery scheduled for Apr 2014.

David Shifrin, MD · Answer

Your eyelid surgery is reconstructive in nature. Work with your oculoplastic surgeon to determine the best timing for you. Sounds like you have had an intense run of procedures to decompress and slow your graves disease. Good Luck,Dr Shifrin

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

It is not appropriate to give you an answer for when it is ok to have eyelid surgery that will make any sense for your situation.  The real question that needs to be answered is where are you on the activity curve for your thyroid eye disease?  There is a logical order for surgical rehabilitation following the resolution of the active phase of the thyroid eye disease.  One wants to proceed logically so that surgeries do not need to be repeated.  I would recommend waiting 6 to 12 months before proceeding with eyelid surgery assuming that other steps of surgical rehabilitation do not need to be revises.   Ultimately this answer needs to be addressed by an oculoplastic surgeon who has carefully reviewed the totality of your history and fully examined you.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

It is best to wait about 3 months after strabismus surgery before undergoing eyelid surgery. Discuss with your oculoplastic surgeon.

How long after strabismus surgery does one need to wait before eyelid surgery?

Answers (3)