Eyelid retraction is most often seen in patients with thyroid eye disease, or Graves’ disease. Both the upper and lower lids can be affected, and in some patients the eyelids do not close completely. Patients with eyelid retraction may complain of dry and irritated eyes. In addition, patients with thyroid eye disease are often disturbed by the change in their appearance.
The irritation and redness associated with eyelid retraction can often be managed with artificial tears or other lubricants. Surgical correction of eyelid retraction in patients with thyroid eye disease is also possible, but should be carried out only after a patient’s exam has been stable for some time.
