ORBITAL SOCIETY

Eyelid Reconstruction - Thyroid Eye Disease

Eyelid retraction is a common early feature of hyperthyroidism, but can be seen in patients with thyroid eye disease with normal thyroid function testing. The classic stare usually involves both the upper and lower eyelids opening more than they should and rounding of the lateral aspect of the eyelid. This eyelid change is associated with tearing and irritation. If the eyelids don’t close at night (lagophthalmos) redness and discomfort can be present when you first wake up.
Management options include:

• Topical drops without preservatives
  
• Ointment specially designed for the eyes that is applied at bedtime
  
• Taping of the eyelids at night
  
• Botox injections into the upper eyelids to improve closure
  
• Eyelid surgery to relieve eyelid retraction and reverse lagophthalmos:
  • Removal of muscle that has become too abundant as a result of TED
    
  • Relaxation of the muscle
    
  • Release of the lower eyelid position with addition of tissue to allow closure

Download Eyelid Surgery Pre-Post Operative Instructions

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