How Can You Tell If You Need Orbital Decompression?

Orbital decompression surgery relieves pressure within the eye socket by removing bone and/or fat. This specialized surgical procedure is most commonly associated with thyroid eye disease (TED). However, an oculoplastic surgeon may also recommend it for other conditions that affect the eyes and the surrounding tissues. It is not usually a simple surgery. For this reason, it is usually considered when the symptoms are severe or when vision is threatened. But how can you tell if you need orbital decompression?

First, you need to have a basic understanding of orbital decompression. The eye and its supporting structures like muscles, nerves, and fat are housed within the eye socket or (orbit). In patients with thyroid eye disease, inflammation causes swelling and scarring. This pushes the eye forward, leading to what is called proptosis or bulging eyes, which may cause pressure, pain, and double vision. Orbital decompression surgery is designed to create more space in the orbit by removing bone and fat behind the eye so that the eye can go back to a more normal position.

Signs to Watch Out

Bulging or Protruding Eyes

Eye protrusion is one of the most common and well-known symptoms of thyroid disease. If you notice that your eyes are bulging forward or look more prominent than before, orbital decompression may help reposition the eye deeper.

Eye Pain or Pressure

A pain or discomfort that does not go away, or a constant feeling of pressure behind the eyes, can be a sign that the orbit is too crowded. You may feel a worsening of this pressure when you bend forward or when you look in certain directions.

Double Vision

You may experience double vision when swollen muscles and tissues interfere with the movements of the eyes. Orbital decompression can be done to realign the eyes and reduce double vision problems.

Vision Changes

When vision becomes blurry or if the patient experiences decreased vision, this can be a sign that the optic nerve is being compressed. If this is not addressed, it can lead to vision loss. If you experience loss of vision or blurry vision, you can protect your eyesight by undergoing orbital decompression.

Severe Darkness and Corneal Exposure

When your eyes bulge, they can prevent your eyelids from closing fully. This can cause chronic dryness, irritation, and corneal dryness. Lubricating drops, ointments, or other protective measures can be done, but sometimes these measures are not enough, and a surgical procedure like orbital decompression is needed to reduce protrusion and protect the surface of the eyes.

Cosmetic Concerns

Aside from medical concerns, cosmetic concerns can also be enough reason to undergo orbital decompression. When bulging eyes affect confidence, facial balance, or mental well-being, a visit to a surgeon can help you determine if orbital decompression can help solve your problem.

Should You Consider Orbital Decompression?

You may be a candidate for this procedure if:

You are suffering from a thyroid disease with moderate or severe symptoms.
You are experiencing optic nerve compression or other vision-threatening complications.
You have tried conservative treatments like medications, lifestyle changes, and other non-surgical techniques with no relief.
Your quality of life is affected.

If you suspect that you need this type of surgery, you may need to undergo:

Visual acuity test
Imaging scans like CT or MRI
Measurement of the protrusion
Assessment of the eyelid closure and an evaluation of the cornea

Orbital decompression surgery is not the first recourse, but it is a good option for patients with thyroid eye disease or other orbital conditions that endanger vision and eye health. If you notice the signs presented here, such as bulging eyes, double vision, or vision changes, do not hesitate to seek evaluation from a specialist. Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications and get you the right solution for a better outlook. Consult an oculoplastic surgeon today. They can help you explore if an orbital decompression procedure is the best option given your situation.