Thyroid Eye Disease Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Schiller's information for patients with Graves' Eye Disease.

Eyelid Repair

In thyroid eye disease, or Graves' disease, the eyelids can open too widely. Once the disease has remained stable for six months, corrective eyelid surgery can be performed to lower the eyelids back to their normal position. This is done both to improve appearance and to improve the health of the eyes, as the abnormally open eyelids cannot blink properly and so do not lubricate and protect the eye adequately. This is performed as an outpatient, often with the CO2 laser in order to minimize bruising and speed healing.

Orbital Decompression

Some patients with Graves' disease require orbital decompression, either to protect the vision, improve comfort, or improve their appearance by letting the eyes go back into the orbit. Dr. Schiller is pleased to be able to offer state-of-the-art minimal incision orbital decompression with the incisions placed inside the eyelids. Recovery is remarkably fast with minimal bruising and no external scar.

Double Vision Correction

Double vision is often the most disturbing result of thyroid eye disease, and surgical correction provides remarkable relief for these unhappy patients. Dr. Schiller performs adjustable muscle surgery under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation, which guarantees the patient's comfort and safety, while allowing the eyes to be adjusted to achieve clear single vision generally after only one procedure.