Understanding Surgery Options for Thyroid Eye Disease

Graves’ Disease can affect various parts of the body, including the eyes, often leading to Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Inc., Missouri’s top eye surgery specialists offer advanced care attuned to your needs.

With convenient offices in St. Louis, St. Peters, and Arnold, we’re here to help you determine if TED surgery is the best course of action. Read on to learn about surgery for thyroid eye disease.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Thyroid eye disease can cause intrusive symptoms such as eyelid swelling, eye pain, and optic nerve pressure that disrupt vision. The disease has two stages: Active and stable.

Active Phase

Symptoms progress over a period of six months to several years in the active or inflammatory phase. At this phase, we manage your symptoms with treatments such as nonprescription and prescription eye drops.

Stable Phase

When you enter the stable phase, the inflammation and symptoms recede—however, some people with TED experience lingering effects, like protruding eyes or double vision.

Our experienced surgeons only recommend surgery if you’re in the stable phase. Typically, we wait 6-18 months to perform surgery once you’re in the stable phase to ensure the safest procedure possible.

Thyroid Eye Disease Surgeries

If your symptoms cause day-to-day problems, we may recommend one of these options.

Orbital Decompression

This procedure is for severe cases. It involves removing fat from behind and around the eye to create more space for the eyeball. This relieves pressure and allows your eye to slightly recede, returning to its natural position.

Eyelid Retraction Surgery

Some people with TED experience chronic eye irritation because their eyelids essentially shrink and can’t fully cover the eye anymore.

Eyelid retraction surgery involves adjusting the eyelids with precise incisions. The goal is to help your eyelids work more effectively so they cover your entire eye.

Each procedure has specific benefits, and our team will help determine which is best for you based on your condition and goals.

TED Surgery Consultations in St. Louis, St. Peters, and Arnold, MO

If you’re seeking relief from the lingering effects of thyroid eye disease, our caring team at Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Inc. is here to help. Call us at 314-567-3567 to schedule an appointment at our St. Louis, St. Peters, or Arnold locations.