Also called proptosis. Eyes pushed forward in the socket.
What it is
Proptosis means one or both eyes pushed forward in the socket, because of something taking up room behind the eye.
Symptoms
Eyes that look staring or more prominent, discomfort, dryness, sometimes double vision, and difficulty closing the lids.
Causes
Most often thyroid eye disease. Less often a lump, inflammation or infection in the socket.
When to get it checked
Have it checked if one eye is pushed forward, if it appeared quickly, or if vision or colour vision is changing.
How it is checked
Every plan starts with an examination by a consultant, not a photograph or a questionnaire.
- Your consultant examines your eyes, measures how far each sits forward, checks your vision and eye movements, and arranges a scan where one is needed.
- What your consultant finds is explained in plain English, there and then.
- You leave with a written plan and, where treatment is right for you, a written fee.
- You are never asked to decide on the day.
If surgery is not the right answer, your consultant will say so, and explain what happens if you do nothing.
Questions patients ask
Do I need a referral?
No. You can request a consultation directly. A letter from your GP or optometrist is helpful if you have one, and your insurer may ask for it.
Will I need surgery?
Not always. Your consultant will explain whether treatment is needed, what each option involves, and what happens if you do nothing.
What happens at the consultation?
Your consultant examines your eyes, measures how far each sits forward, checks your vision and eye movements, and arranges a scan where one is needed. You leave with a written plan and fee, and time to decide.
How soon can I be seen?
The clinic team will offer the first suitable appointment, and sooner where your consultant judges it urgent.