:wave: Hi! I am considering eye surgery to remove under eye bags and sagging lids. I have Hashimoto's thyroiditis and very dry eyes. I have had some of my tear ducts cauterized by an opthamologist to try and preserve fluid in my eyes. However, I have noticed I have bags. I don't know if the dry eyes and thyroid disease have made the situation worse. Could this be? If so, how? If anyone is familiar with my medical condition, I would appreciate your thoughts regarding my concerns. Thanks

I have thyroid disease, but I do not have dry eyes. Yes, thyroid disease causes bags under the eyes. I learned this when I consulted with my cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Howard Tobin. He required that I consult with my endocrinologist and my ophthamologist prior to scheduling my blepharoplasty. Both of my specialists, following comprehensive exams, gave their approval for me to proceed with the surgery. I was also required to have an EKG, as I had my surgery under anesthesia.

The assistant surgeon, who did most of checking me after surgery, commented that they removed fat below and above the eyes, but it was evident during surgery that I had some thyroid issues. I did not ask him to go into detail about the thyroid issues.

My endocrinologist did a separate blood test as part of my pre-surgery exam, to check my antibodies. If the antibodies tested low, I would have better success with the surgery. However, my antibodies tested high, and I understood that even with the blepharoplasty, bags could develop again.

I had the laser resurfacing with my blepharoplasty, because I had my under-eye bags for about 18 years, along with plenty of noticeable wrinkles. The laser resurfacing really created a pleasing appearance. Under my eyes, the skin is tight and smooth. The surgical procedure has not caused me to develop dry eyes. I am currently 47 days post-op.

If you are considering having a blepharoplasty, go ahead and schedule a consultation with a recommended surgeon. He might suggest you consult with your endocrinologist and ophthamologist; but, I would recommend you speak with your specialists prior to scheduling the procedure, even if your cosmetic surgeon does not require you to do so.

Good luck! I'm interested to hear what you decide.