Surgery for Thyroid Eye Disease:

​corrects structural and functional damage caused by inflammation from Graves' disease, typically after the condition becomes stable and inactive.

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Main Types of Surgery:

1. Orbital Decompression: Removes bone or fat from the eye socket to create more room, reduce eye bulging, and relieve pressure on the optic nerve.

 

Recovery timeline

This surgery happens under general anesthesia. The use of minimally invasive techniques has helped shorten recovery time.

The cuts made in this surgery are hidden, and there’s no visible scarring. You’ll likely be able to return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks.

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Side effects

Orbital decompression doesn’t always improve double vision. And in some cases, double vision starts to occur after orbital decompression.

Eye muscle surgery or wearing glasses with a prism can help manage double vision.

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2. Eyelid Retraction Surgery: Lengthens or repositions the eyelid muscles and tissues so the lid can properly cover and protect the eye surface.

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Recovery timeline

This surgery is done under general anesthesia.

Eyelid surgery is delayed until TED is stable, however. This means that if other surgeries are needed, those are done first.

Your eye needs to be back in its proper position before eyelid retraction can be done.

You’ll likely be back to your normal routine in 1 or 2 weeks after eyelid retraction surgery.

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Side effects

It’s normal for your eyes to be red and sensitive for a few days. There may be some bruising or swelling as well. Your eyelids may be red for longer, but will improve in the weeks to come.

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Benefits of the surgery:

• ​Preserves eyesight

• Reduces bulging

• Alleviates chronic discomfort

• Improves eyelid closure

• Prevents corneal damage

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