Are my eyes bulging? Is it proptosis or exophthalmos? (Photos)

Question

Are my eyes bulging? Is it proptosis or exophthalmos? I've noticed that in recent months my eyes have become more bulging, and I've also had some vision loss in my left eye. Is it possible to correct my ears too?

Kyle Kimura, MD · Answer

Yes. If you have not already done this, I would start by seeing a provider who can test you for thyroid eye disease as this can be a somewhat common cause for bulging eyes. Proptosis just means they are bulging. Exophthalmos is essentially the same thing in the setting of underlying disease causing the bulging. Ultimately getting this under control is the most important aspect but there are also certain oculoplastic surgeons who can treat this condition as well.
Hope this helps and best of luckKyle Kimura, MD

Julian De Silva, MD · Answer

I want to answer this carefully, because what you are describing is not a cosmetic question. New or progressive bulging of the eyes (proptosis), combined with any loss of vision, needs prompt in-person assessment by an ophthalmologist or your doctor, sooner rather than later. Bulging that is genuinely new can be caused by conditions that need medical investigation, for example thyroid eye disease or other problems affecting the orbit, and the vision loss is the symptom that makes this urgent. This may not be something to treat with cosmetic surgery, and it is not something anyone can diagnose responsibly from photographs. Please arrange to be seen by an eye specialist, and mention the vision change clearly so they can prioritise you. Once any underlying cause has been assessed and treated, then, and only then, is it appropriate to discuss whether anything cosmetic is needed. Your sight comes first here. Best of luck

Michael McCracken, MD · Answer

Yes, you have proptosis (or exophthalmos).   Do you have a history of thyroid disease?  It looks like this could be related to that.  Regardless, it is concerning that you are starting to experience vision loss.  Early on, vision loss associated with proptosis can be reversable.  
You need to find an oculoplastic surgeon in your area for an evaluation.  If you call in and tell them that you have proptosis with vision loss, they should be able to get you in without a long wait.

Are my eyes bulging? Is it proptosis or exophthalmos? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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