Orbital Decompression Surgery for Thyroid Eye Disease

The primary goal of an orbital decompression surgery is to create more space in the orbit to allow the eye to return to a more normal position.

The indications for orbital decompression include:

• Compressive optic neuropathy
• Spontaneous globe prolapse
• Disfigurement
• Discomfort due to orbital pressure/pain
• Orbital congestion
• Preoperative assessment
• A full ophthalmic and orbit work-up including measurement of the extent of protrusion of the eyeball are carried out. External photographs are taken, including full face and profile views, and a view from above and below showing the amount of globe protrusion.

All patients undergo a standard preoperative medical clearance that includes full blood count, thyroid function test (TSH, free T3 & T4) and an ECG


Orbital decompression can be categorized into three types:

• Removal of bone from one or more walls of the orbit
• Removal of orbital fat, including intraconal fat
• A combination of bony and fat removal

What are the benefits?

• Improve position of eye back into orbit (bony socket),
• Improve discomfort
• Improve corneal exposure and reduce the risk of corneal infection
• Possibly improve raised intraocular pressures (especially when looking up).

Call our offices at 425-455-2131 or use our online contact form to schedule your appointment today!