Medical vs. Surgical Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease can affect far more than appearance. In addition to eye bulging, it can also cause discomfort, dryness, double vision, or vision changes that interfere with daily life. If you or someone you love is dealing with thyroid eye disease, understanding your treatment options can help you feel more prepared and confident about what comes next.

At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Inc., patients are treated by fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeons who specialize in complex eyelid and orbital conditions. With decades of experience managing thyroid eye disease, the team brings deep clinical knowledge and a long history of academic and surgical leadership to every appointment.

Understanding Thyroid Eye Disease

Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder often linked to Graves’ disease. It is characterized by inflammation and swelling in the tissues around the eyes, including muscles, fat, and connective tissue.

This condition typically progresses through two phases:

• An active (inflammatory) phase, when symptoms may worsen
• A stable phase, when inflammation settles, but structural changes may remain

Treatment choices depend heavily on which phase you’re in and how severe your symptoms are.

Medical Treatment Options

Medical treatment is usually the first step during the active phase of thyroid eye disease. The goal is to decrease inflammation, manage symptoms, and protect vision.

Common non-surgical approaches may include:

• Lubricating eye drops or ointments for dryness and irritation
• Medications that reduce inflammation or immune system activity
• Targeted therapies to address the underlying autoimmune response

Early medical management can help control symptoms and may reduce the need for surgery later in the disease course.

When Surgical Treatment Is Considered

Surgery is generally reserved for patients whose thyroid eye disease has stabilized or for those with urgent vision-threatening complications. Surgical treatment focuses on correcting structural changes caused by the disease.

Procedures may address:

• Pressure on the optic nerve
• Eyelid position and closure
• Eye alignment and double vision
• Residual eye bulging

Because thyroid eye disease can affect multiple structures, surgery is often performed in stages and carefully planned based on individual anatomy and goals.

Schedule a Thyroid Eye Disease Evaluation

If you’re struggling with symptoms of thyroid eye disease or have questions about medical or surgical treatment options, expert guidance matters. Call Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Inc. at 314-567-3567 to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in St. Louis, St. Peters, and Arnold, MO.