Graves’ disease is most often discussed as a thyroid condition, but for many patients, it becomes something much more visible—literally. This autoimmune disorder can lead to a complication known as thyroid eye disease (TED), which affects the muscles and tissues around the eyes. The result? Bulging eyes, discomfort, dryness, and changes in appearance that can impact both vision and confidence.
At the Eyelid Center of Utah, we specialize in helping patients manage the eye-related effects of Graves’ disease through advanced surgical and non-surgical options. If you’re struggling with uncomfortable or visible symptoms of thyroid eye disease, an oculoplastic surgeon may be the specialist you didn’t know you needed.
Here’s how Graves’ disease can affect your eyes—and how expert care from an eyelid surgeon in Utah can help you see and feel better.
What Is Graves’ Disease?
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. It causes the thyroid to produce too much hormone (hyperthyroidism), leading to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, and heat sensitivity.
In many cases, the immune system also mistakenly attacks the tissues behind the eyes, triggering a separate but related condition called thyroid eye disease (TED) or Graves’ orbitopathy.
Common Eye Symptoms of Graves’ Disease
Thyroid eye disease doesn’t affect every patient with Graves’ disease, but when it does, it can be progressive and difficult to ignore. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Bulging or protruding eyes (proptosis)
- Eyelid retraction (upper eyelid pulled too high or lower eyelid pulled down)
- Redness or swelling around the eyes
- Double vision
- Dryness or excessive tearing
- Light sensitivity
- Eye pain or pressure
According to the American Thyroid Association, up to 50% of people with Graves’ disease may experience some degree of eye involvement. In severe cases, it can interfere with blinking, eye closure, and even vision.
Why an Oculoplastic Surgeon Is the Right Specialist
While endocrinologists manage the thyroid side of the disease, oculoplastic surgeons focus on the structure and function of the eyelids, orbit, and surrounding tissues. These surgeons are uniquely qualified to address the eye-related changes caused by Graves’ disease, especially when symptoms persist after the thyroid is under control.
At the Eyelid Center of Utah, our board-certified oculoplastic specialists provide personalized treatment options based on your stage of thyroid eye disease and your specific concerns.
Eyelid Retraction: One of the Most Common Issues
One of the hallmark signs of thyroid eye disease is eyelid retraction. This occurs when the upper eyelids are pulled back, exposing too much of the eye’s surface, or the lower eyelids are pulled down, making the eyes appear unusually wide or bulging.
This can lead to:
- A startled or “staring” appearance
- Incomplete eye closure
- Corneal dryness or damage
- Chronic irritation or discomfort
When nonsurgical treatments aren’t enough, eyelid retraction surgery can reposition the eyelids for a more natural look and improved protection of the eyes.
What to Expect from Eyelid Retraction Surgery
Eyelid retraction surgery is often performed once the active phase of thyroid eye disease has stabilized. The goal is to restore both function and appearance by lowering the upper eyelids or raising the lower lids, depending on the individual case.
Here’s what the process typically involves:
- Consultation and evaluation
We’ll assess your symptoms, examine your eye anatomy, and determine whether surgery is the right next step. Photos and measurements help guide your personalized plan. - Customized surgical plan
Depending on your needs, we may adjust the eyelid muscles or reposition tissue to restore proper coverage of the eye. In some cases, we may use grafts or spacers for added support. - Outpatient procedure
Most eyelid surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis under local or twilight anesthesia, with minimal downtime and a focus on comfort. - Recovery and results
Mild swelling or bruising is common for the first week, but most patients return to normal activities soon after. The full cosmetic and functional results become visible as healing progresses.
Our goal is always to create a result that looks natural—not “overdone”—while restoring essential eye comfort and safety.
Additional Treatment Options for Graves’ Eye Disease
In addition to eyelid retraction surgery, we offer several other solutions to help patients with thyroid eye disease:
- Orbital decompression: In more advanced cases where the eyes are severely protruding, this procedure creates more space in the orbit to relieve pressure and improve eye positioning.
- Strabismus surgery: For patients with double vision due to muscle misalignment, this can correct the eye position.
- Non-surgical therapies: Lubricating eye drops, eyelid taping, and medications may be used in earlier stages or to manage mild symptoms.
We work closely with endocrinologists and primary care providers throughout Utah to ensure your care is well-coordinated from diagnosis through treatment.
When to See a Specialist
If you’ve been diagnosed with Graves’ disease and are starting to notice changes in your eyes, it’s important to seek help early. Symptoms such as eye bulging, dryness, or eyelid changes can worsen over time, and early intervention can prevent long-term complications.
We recommend scheduling a consultation at the Eyelid Center of Utah if:
- Your eyes appear more prominent or irritated than usual
- You’re experiencing dry eye that isn’t relieved with drops
- Your eyelids don’t close fully when blinking or sleeping
- You have concerns about your eye appearance after weight or hormone changes
Even if your thyroid levels are under control, your eyes may still need attention.
Helping Your Eyes Feel and Function Better in Salt Lake City
Graves’ disease can affect far more than your thyroid—it can impact how you see, how you look, and how comfortable you feel each day. If you’re struggling with the eye-related effects of this condition, you don’t have to live with discomfort or self-consciousness.
At the Eyelid Center of Utah, we help patients across the Salt Lake City region find long-term relief and confidence through precise, compassionate care. With advanced options for eyelid retraction and other eye concerns, our experienced team is here to guide you through the next phase of healing and restoration.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward clearer vision, greater comfort, and a look that reflects how you truly feel.
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