Orbital Decompression (Thyroid Eye Disease)

Thyroid eye disease may occur at any time during a thyroid patient’s clinical course. Common symptoms include swollen eyelids, a bulging appearance to the eye, red and dry eyes, inability to close the eye and pain in the eye. It is important to work closely with the patient’s endocrinologist to ensure appropriate medical management of the thyroid condition. The health of the eye must be monitored to ensure that the vision is not affected. Treatment options include supportive eye care, IV infusion therapy to address the thyroid eye disease, and in some cases orbital decompression surgery. In orbital decompression, the delicate bones around the eye are removed in small pieces to create space for the eye. The incision is placed inside the lower eyelid and in the outer corner (hidden in a laugh line). This surgery is done to alleviate bulging of the eye that is vision threatening. It is performed on an outpatient basis and Dr. Jennifer Hui will follow you closely to ensure proper healing. Orbital decompression may be followed by eyelid surgery in some cases to further improve appearance and eyelid function.

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Why should I go to an Oculoplastic surgeon for dermal filler and botulinum toxin treatment?

Oculoplastic surgeons have a unique and focused understanding of eyelid anatomy/ function and its relationship to ocular function and facial expression.  This knowledge is the key to achieving optimum results when using botulinum toxin around the eyes.

FAQ’s

An oculoplastic surgeon specializes in surgery of the eyelids and orbit (tissues around the eye) and the lacrimal system (tear duct system). After medical school, a one year internship and three year residency in Ophthalmology (eye surgery) are completed. An additional two year fellowship in Oculoplastic surgery gives your surgeon the intricate knowledge of eyelid, orbital and lacrimal anatomy that is required for an optimal outcome. Dr. Hui is a board certified Ophthalmologist and a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (a very select group of approximately 1,000 Oculoplastic surgeons in the United States).

Dr. Hui will meet with you personally to discuss your goals. After a review of your history and an examination, she will recommend the optimal plan for you. Dr. Hui personally performs all surgeries and cosmetic procedures (filler and Botox). We have a small close knit office, and the staff and I are in constant communication to take the best care of you possible.

Surgery may be performed in the office with local anesthesia or at an outpatient surgery center with intravenous sedation. Dr. Hui will help you determine the ideal location for your procedure after your first meeting.

In most cases, after a week of light activity (no strenuous exercise OR heavy lifting), you are able to return to your usual activities. Dr. Hui will review the recommendations for your particular procedure after she reviews your history and the treatment plan.

In most cases, patients do not take any post-operative pain medication, or Tylenol. If needed, additional pain medication may be prescribed.

Dr. Hui will examine your surgical sites and assess your healing. Any specific concerns will be addressed and post-operative care tailored to your particular needs. In most cases, dissolving sutures are used. However, if non dissolving sutures are used, she will remove those 1-2 weeks after surgery.

In some cases, insurance MAY cover some of your surgical procedures IF deemed medically necessary. Dr. Hui will evaluate your history particular case and discuss if insurance coverage may be possible.

A few happy clients

I had a great experience!

From my first office visit to my surgery I was treated with great care. Dr. Hui and her staff made me feel very comfortable and very at ease. Thank you for everything.

J.T.

Dr. Hui and her staff are exceptional!

I had the best experience ever! She is very knowledgeable and helpful and her staff is very professional. I am very pleased with the results and will definitely see her again in the future.

M.H.