Symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease

Inflammation in the fatty tissues and muscles behind the eyes can be caused by an autoimmune condition called thyroid eye disease (TED) or Graves’ eye disease. This eye condition is linked with an overactive thyroid caused by Graves’ disease. In Graves’ disease, antibodies can attack thyroid cells and the surface cells behind the eyes. Here are a few of the symptoms of thyroid eye disease to help identify the problem and solutions that can be used for treatment.

  • Red, Dry or Itchy Eyes. While red, dry or itchy eyes can be caused by many different triggers, this is a common symptom of TED. This symptom can be treated with lubricating eye drops.
  • Eye Pain. TED can cause eye pain, especially when looking up or down. This can be treated with steroids that help relieve the inflammation.
  • Eye Swelling. One of the most noticeable symptoms of TED is swelling of the eye tissues. In severe cases, the inflammation can press on the optic nerve, cause the eyes to “bulge” or have the experience of staring. Steroids can help with inflammation, but in severe cases, surgery may be needed.

Plastic Surgery For Thyroid Eye Disease

When TED causes bulging, protruding eyes or a “staring” appearance when the upper eyelids to move upward, plastic surgery can be one option for treatment. Orbital decompression can be used to help minimize protrusion and reduce the appearance of bulging eyes. For the “staring” symptom caused by upward eyelid movement, the upper eyelid can be altered through plastic surgery to combat this symptom.

If you have these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your physician to be tested for TED. For those with TED that want to explore plastic surgery options, contact a oculoplastic surgeon for a consultation.

Posted on behalf of:
Kami Parsa, M.D.
Oculoplastic Surgery
465 N Roxbury Dr. Suite 1011
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 777-8880

Can Xanthelasma Be Corrected Through Plastic Surgery?

The eyes are such an important feature to the face and for the senses – when a growth detracts from their beauty or function, it can be devastating. Xanthelasma is a condition that can cause fat growths around the eye, even impacting vision as well as the aesthetic appearance of the eye. For many with this condition, plastic surgery can be an option to restore vision and improve appearance for those with xanthelasma.

What Causes Xanthelasma?

The causes of xanthelasma can vary from health conditions to genetics. This fatty bump around the eye is usually yellow in color, usually in or around the corners. It is a build-up of cholesterol under the skin and is more common in those of Mediterranean or Asian descent. Those with liver or heart problems are also more susceptible to this condition. While is may be an aesthetic concern and can impact the vision, it can also be a sign of more serious health issues that should be addressed with a primary physician.

Removal of Xanthelasma

If medical treatment is already being addressed for the cause of xanthelasma, there are options to remove the growth for cosmetic and vision concerns. A plastic surgeon with experience in delicate facial surgery can remove the pocket of fat and discoloration to improve the appearance and function of the eyes. This can help improve the self-confidence of the patient and their appearance while they address any possible health concerns linked to the condition.

If you have xanthelasma and want to explore options for removing the growths, contact a qualified plastic surgeon that offers xanthelasma removal. But it is also important to contact your primary physician to discuss possible causes of these growths that may be impacting your overall health.

Posted on behalf of:
Beverly Hills Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery
120 South Spalding Drive #236
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 288-0641