Thyroid Eye Disease in San Francisco
Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the tissue and muscles behind the eye. It is most often associated with Graves’ disease, but it can also occur when thyroid levels are normal or low. Symptoms may include bulging eyes, eyelid retraction, double vision, and dry, gritty, or red eyes.
Seeking care for thyroid eye disease?
Our oculoplastic surgeon can evaluate your eyes and coordinate a treatment plan with your endocrinologist.
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How TED Progresses
TED generally occurs in two phases. During the active phase, inflammation causes symptoms to change, often over six months to two years. During the stable phase, inflammation subsides, though changes such as bulging or double vision may remain. The phase of the disease helps determine treatment. Some treatments are most effective while TED is active, and surgery is usually performed once the condition is stable.
Smoking increases both the risk of developing TED and the likelihood of more severe disease.
Treatment Options
IV infusion therapy
FDA-approved medications for TED can be given as a series of IV infusions to reduce eye bulging and double vision. We coordinate infusions either in our office or through home treatment. Before you begin, your doctor will review how the treatment works, the infusion schedule, and potential side effects.
Orbital decompression
For bulging that remains once TED is stable, orbital decompression surgery removes bone or fat from the eye socket to create more space, allowing the eye to settle into a more natural position. Our oculoplastic surgeon performs this procedure.
Eyelid surgery
Eyelid retraction often improves after other treatment is complete. If it does not, surgery can reposition the upper or lower eyelid to protect the eye and restore a natural appearance. When more than one procedure is needed, orbital surgery is typically performed first, followed by eye muscle surgery, then eyelid surgery.
Coordinated Care
Although TED affects the eyes, it originates in the immune system. Our oculoplastic surgeon works alongside the physician managing your thyroid condition, so your eye care and thyroid treatment are planned together.
Schedule a thyroid eye disease consultation
Our oculoplastic surgeon will recommend treatment based on the current phase of your condition.