Orbital decompression surgery is a specialized procedure used to relieve pressure in the eye socket. Certain eye conditions can cause pressure in the orbit of the eye. The most common condition is thyroid eye disease. Orbital pressure can cause several unwanted symptoms that can impact daily life. Common symptoms include swelling and inflammation, double vision, and discomfort. It can also lead to eye bulging, which can impact your appearance and self-confidence. When left untreated, orbital pressure can lead to serious consequences, including vision loss. You may wonder, is orbital decompression surgery dangerous? Below, you will find helpful information about the procedure and if it is right for you.
Is Orbital Decompression Surgery Dangerous?
Orbital decompression is often necessary for patients with moderate to severe orbital pressure. If left untreated, serious issues can occur. This can impact daily life, your professional career, and even your self-confidence. However, orbital decompression surgery can address unwanted symptoms associated with thyroid eye disease. The surgery is safe and effective, and the results are life-changing for patients.
Orbital Decompression Surgery and Eye Conditions
Several eye conditions can be treated by orbital decompression surgery. The most common condition is thyroid eye disease. However, several other eye conditions improve with treatment.
Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune condition closely linked to Graves’ disease. The condition involves swelling in the tissues behind the eyes. This can cause several other symptoms, including eye bulging, discomfort, and vision problems. When the inflammation impacts the optic nerve, orbital decompression surgery is necessary.
Optic Nerve Compression
Swelling around the eyes can put pressure on the optic nerve. This can cause blurry vision, vision issues, and complete vision loss if not addressed. Sometimes, medication is used to relieve pressure. However, if conservative treatments are ineffective, orbital decompression surgery is necessary. The surgery reduces pressure on the optic nerve and reduces your risk for long-term vision issues.
Orbital Tumors or Cysts
Growths inside the eye socket can lead to displacement of the eye. This is often due to orbital tumors or cysts, whether they are benign or malignant. When the eye is displaced, it can lead to discomfort and vision changes. This can impact your daily life and make things like reading and driving much more difficult. An eyelid surgeon can remove the tumor or cyst to create more room for the eye. This ensures that the function and appearance of your eye are maintained.
Orbital Trauma
Facial injuries can impact the orbit of the eye. This can cause swelling and trap tissues. Depending on the severity of the trauma, it can lead to several symptoms. These include double vision, eye misalignment, or even nerve damage. In some cases, orbital decompression surgery can improve the damage caused by the injury. Whether it is resetting displaced bone, relieving pressure, or restoring eye movement, the surgery can address several issues.
Do I Need Orbital Decompression Surgery?
Only a skilled eye surgeon can determine the best course of action for your condition. However, several common symptoms indicate the need for orbital decompression surgery. Consider the following and contact an eyelid surgeon if you experience these symptoms.
Eye Bulging
Severe eye bulging is referred to as proptosis. It occurs when the eye is pushed forward due to swelling or pressure in the eye socket. This can cause discomfort and eye strain and impact your vision. In addition to the unwanted symptoms, eye bulging also impacts your appearance. Many people who experience the symptoms are embarrassed and feel self-conscious about the way they look. Surgery is effective in repositioning the eye and relieving orbital pressure.
Eye Pain or Pressure
Persistent eye pain or pressure behind the eyes is not normal. It can indicate excessive swelling in the orbit. This is often due to inflammation around the eyes, as it can compress the surrounding tissue and nerves. If left untreated, the pain can become unmanageable. If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary to address the pain or pressure.
Double Vision
Double vision occurs when the muscles and tissues around the eye are swollen. This can affect the alignment of the eyes and lead to double vision. Double vision has a serious impact on daily life. It can affect your ability to drive, read, and walk. It can even make things unsafe for yourself and others. Conservative treatment may benefit the condition. However, surgery is necessary if double vision continues.
Vision Changes
When the optic nerve is compressed by swollen tissues or bone, it can lead to several vision problems. In addition to double vision, it can cause blurriness, dimness, and even blind spots. Vision changes can occur over time or suddenly. Due to the risk of vision loss, prompt treatment is necessary. Orbital decompression surgery can protect your long-term vision.
Difficulty Closing Your Eyes
When your eyes bulge out really far, it can make it difficult to fully close your eyes. This can lead to several symptoms, including dryness, irritation, and infection. When the cornea is exposed, the lubricants associated with blinking are unable to effectively hydrate the eye. Orbital decompression surgery can address eyelid bulging, which results in optimal eyelid coverage. This can ensure your overall eye health.
Orbital Decompression Surgery Consultation
If you experience any of the symptoms above, it is important to consult with a skilled eyelid surgeon. You can schedule a consultation with a surgeon, and they will assess your symptoms. The consultation involves a thorough evaluation of your medical history. A detailed eye exam and imaging tests are beneficial to determine the best course of action. The type of treatment that is right for you depends on the results of your imaging, your symptoms, and your medical history. The surgeon will provide you with your treatment options. If orbital decompression surgery is the best court of action, you will be provided with pre-operative instructions. You can schedule your surgery and prepare as instructed.
Eyelid Surgeon
If you are concerned about your eye health, contact the team at Taban MD Oculoplastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!