Restore comfort, vision, and facial balance with orbital decompression in Beverly Hills by David Isaacs, MD, our dual-fellowship trained oculofacial plastic surgeon and UCLA faculty instructor. This procedure treats proptosis (eye bulging), double vision, optic nerve compression, and facial asymmetry, common effects of thyroid eye disease (TED). Dr. Isaacs specializes in minimally invasive techniques that deliver functional relief with natural-looking results.
Reverse Eye Changes Caused by
Thyroid Disease
Thyroid eye disease (TED), also known as Graves’ orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the eye muscles and surrounding tissues. As the orbit becomes overcrowded, patients may experience proptosis (eye bulging), double vision, optic nerve compression that threatens vision, and noticeable facial asymmetry. When symptoms progress or vision is at risk, orbital decompression surgery in Beverly Hills is often necessary to relieve pressure within the orbit and restore both function and appearance.
Orbital decompression involves removing or reshaping bone and/or fat from the orbit to create more space for the inflamed tissues. This reduces eye protrusion, relieves nerve compression, and restores a more natural look. Historically performed using high-risk, invasive neurosurgical techniques, the procedure now benefits from major advancements pioneered at UCLA. Under the care of surgeons like Dr. Isaacs, this procedure is now performed using hidden eyelid incisions, allowing for a minimally invasive approach with superior results.
Orbital Decompression Treats:
- Proptosis caused by TED
- Double vision due to swollen eye muscles
- Optic nerve compression threatening vision
- Facial asymmetry from orbital inflammation
- Discomfort or pressure behind the eyes
- Difficulty closing the eyes completely
- Dryness or irritation from eye exposure
- Visual disturbances linked to orbital crowding
Your Private Consultation With
Dr. Isaacs
During your 90-minute consultation with Dr. Isaacs, you’ll receive his undivided attention as he carefully examines your eyes, reviews imaging, and discusses the full scope of your symptoms and concerns. He’ll explain the underlying causes of your condition, walk you through treatment options, and show you how orbital decompression can help. Using his deep expertise and advanced imaging analysis, Dr. Isaacs will design a customized surgical plan just for you.
Advantages of Modern Orbital Decompression:
- Minimally invasive techniques with hidden eyelid incisions
- No visible external scars
- Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
- Reduced surgical risks and complications
- Shorter recovery time and less downtime
- Customized approach balancing function and aesthetics
- Effective relief from optic nerve compression
- Restoration of natural eye position and symmetry
Dr. Isaacs’ Approach to Orbital
Decompression Surgery
Dr. Isaacs uses a minimally invasive approach to orbital decompression to relieve pressure within the orbit while preserving the natural appearance of your eyes. He begins by making a small, hidden incision on the inside of the lower eyelid, which allows direct access to the orbital bones without any visible scar. He then removes or thins portions of the bony walls of the orbit ( the medial and/or floor walls), which expands the orbital cavity and gives swollen tissues more room, relieving pressure on the optic nerve and reducing eye bulging.
Depending on your anatomy, Dr. Isaacs may also remove a precise amount of orbital fat to reduce pressure further. This fat removal is done with meticulous control to avoid hollowing and maintain a smooth contour. Every step of the surgery is tailored to achieve functional goals, including improved vision and comfort, while also restoring facial balance and symmetry.
Orbital Decompression FAQs
Is Orbital Decompression Only for Thyroid Eye Disease?
While most commonly performed for thyroid eye disease (TED), orbital decompression may also be recommended for patients with orbital tumors, traumatic orbital fractures, or severe proptosis (eye bulging) from other causes. Dr. Isaacs will determine whether the surgery is appropriate based on your diagnosis, imaging studies, and overall symptoms.
How Do I Know if I Need Orbital Decompression?
If you’re experiencing eye bulging, double vision, pain or pressure behind the eyes, difficulty closing your eyelids, or vision changes due to optic nerve compression, you may benefit from this procedure. Dr. Isaacs will evaluate your case with advanced imaging and a comprehensive eye exam to determine whether decompression is necessary.
What is Recovery Like After Surgery?
Most patients go home the same day. You may experience mild swelling or bruising for 1 to 2 weeks, but discomfort is well-controlled with oral medication. Dr. Isaacs will provide detailed post-op care instructions, and most patients resume normal activities within 7 to 14 days.
Will the Surgery Affect How My Eyes Look?
Yes, but positively. In addition to relieving pressure, orbital decompression often improves eye symmetry and restores a more natural appearance. Dr. Isaacs carefully tailors each surgery to strike a balance between cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Schedule Your Consultation
David Isaacs, MD, is a dual-fellowship trained oculofacial plastic surgeon and a leader in orbital decompression Beverly Hills. As a faculty instructor at UCLA’s Orbital Master’s Course and the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Orbital Decompression Course, he teaches plastic surgeons worldwide the latest minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Isaacs combines advanced training with a conservative, detail-oriented approach to deliver exceptional outcomes. Schedule your consultation in Beverly Hills today to explore your options.
