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Finding the right specialist is important for people with thyroid eye disease (TED). Expert care can help you protect your vision and improve your quality of life. While many doctors may be involved in your care, an oculoplastic surgeon can be an important member of your medical team. These specialists can surgically treat some of the changes around your eyes caused by TED.
In this article, we’ll review the role of an oculoplastic surgeon. We’ll also explain how they help people with TED and offer tips for finding the right provider for you.
An oculoplastic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the eyes and surrounding areas. They are also called oculofacial or ophthalmic plastic surgeons. These specialists may operate on the eyelids, tear ducts, eyebrows, and eye sockets.
How does someone become an oculoplastic surgeon? These specialists attend medical school, then finish a residency in ophthalmology. After that, they complete a fellowship in oculoplastic or orbital surgery. This advanced training makes them experts in both eye health and facial reconstruction.
If you have TED, an oculoplastic surgeon can use specialized procedures to protect your vision, help your eyes work better, and improve your appearance.
TED can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes. This can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, double vision, or retracted eyelids. In some cases, these changes persist even after the inflammation stage of TED has passed.
There are several types of oculoplastic surgery that can help correct these issues and restore eye health. Surgeries for TED include:
Eye surgery is often performed once TED becomes inactive. But your doctor may adjust the timing based on your needs.
Finding the right oculoplastic surgeon can make a big difference in your comfort, confidence, and results. Below are seven tips to guide your search.
Start by confirming that the doctor is board certified in ophthalmology. Make sure they’re fellowship trained in oculoplastic or orbital surgery. You can usually find this information on the provider’s website. You can also check the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) directory.
Not all oculoplastic surgeons specialize in TED. Ask how many people with thyroid eye disease they’ve treated and which procedures they perform most often. Surgeons who are most familiar with TED understand the careful balance between eye function, appearance, and timing of treatment.
TED affects both the eyes and the thyroid. For that reason, you may benefit from care at a center that brings together endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and oculoplastic surgeons. In addition, collaborative care between a primary care doctor, optometrist, and surgeon can improve health outcomes.
Ask to see before-and-after photos and testimonials of people with TED whom they’ve treated. These images can give you a sense of the surgeon’s experience and outcomes.
Your relationship with your surgeon should feel collaborative. Look for someone who takes time to explain procedures, listen to your concerns, and discuss realistic outcomes and risks. Feeling comfortable and informed helps you make confident care decisions.
Confirm that your surgeon accepts your insurance and works at a hospital or surgical center accredited for oculoplastic procedures. This helps ensure safety standards and support if complications arise. You can check the surgeon’s website and contact your insurance company to confirm coverage.
Ask your endocrinologist, TED specialist, or ophthalmologist for referrals. You can also read reviews online or connect with others on TEDhealthteam to hear their experiences with local specialists.
Your oculoplastic surgeon will review your medical and thyroid history. They’ll also perform an eye exam and may order imaging to evaluate your eye muscles and surrounding tissue.
They’ll discuss whether you’re a candidate for surgery and explain the types of surgery you may receive. They should also explain what to expect during recovery, and the possible risks and benefits. Together, you can create a care plan tailored to your symptoms, stage of TED, and personal goals.
On TEDhealthteam, people share their experiences with thyroid eye disease, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you found an oculoplastic surgeon for TED? Let others know in the comments below.
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