Thyroid eye disease (TED) is also known as thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy, Graves’ ophthalmopathy and dysthyroid eye disease.
It is an autoimmune disease in which there is an abnormal inflammation of the eyelids and tissues of the eye socket (orbit) with an increase in orbital fat and swelling of the extraocular muscles that move the eyes. Abnormal functioning of the thyroid gland may precede, be coincident with, or follow thyroid eye disease.
Most patients have mild disease with symptoms that include ocular irritation and lid swelling. About 3 to 5% of patients may have severe orbital inflammation. This can lead to loss of vision and even blindness. Prompt treatment may prevent this devastating outcome.
Unless severe and sight-threatening, most surgery for thyroid eye disease is rehabilitative and is undertaken in the inactive phase of the disease.
Please click on the links below for further information on particular aspects of thyroid eye disease treated by Miss Mellington. These patient information leaflets are available for you to download and print.
Upper lid lowering
Lower lid elevation
Upper and lower lid blepharoplasty
Corneal protection – tarsorrhaphy
Orbital decompression - lateral wall (one wall)
Orbital decompression - two to three wall
