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Oculoplastics·Laguna Woods, Orange County

Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) Treatment in Laguna Woods, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy or Graves' orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition affecting the muscles and tissues around the eyes. It commonly occurs with hyperthyroidism but can develop even when thyroid levels are normal. The inflammation causes the eye muscles and fat to swell, leading to bulging eyes, double vision, and in severe cases, vision-threatening optic nerve compression.

For Laguna Woods's mature residents, thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) management takes into account age-related changes, current medications, and overall health goals to create a practical, effective treatment plan.

Dr. Bonakdar on Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Laguna Woods and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)?

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), also known as Graves' ophthalmopathy or Graves' orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition affecting the muscles and tissues around the eyes. It commonly occurs with hyperthyroidism but can develop even when thyroid levels are normal. The inflammation causes the eye muscles and fat to swell, leading to bulging eyes, double vision, and in severe cases, vision-threatening optic nerve compression.

How is Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) treated?

Treatment options include Selenium supplementation, Lubricating eye drops and gels, Prism glasses for double vision, Orbital decompression surgery. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)?

Common symptoms include Bulging eyes (proptosis/exophthalmos), Eyelid retraction showing white above or below iris, Double vision (diplopia), Dry, gritty, irritated eyes, Eye redness and swelling. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)?

Laguna Woods's active adults should be particularly attentive to these warning signs, as age-related changes can cause symptoms to develop gradually:

  • Bulging eyes (proptosis/exophthalmos)
  • Eyelid retraction showing white above or below iris
  • Double vision (diplopia)
  • Dry, gritty, irritated eyes
  • Eye redness and swelling
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty closing eyes completely

How is Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) treated?

For Laguna Woods's mature patients, treatment selection accounts for existing medications, systemic health conditions, and quality-of-life priorities:

Selenium supplementation
Lubricating eye drops and gels
Prism glasses for double vision
Orbital decompression surgery
Eyelid surgery for retraction
Strabismus surgery for double vision
Teprotumumab (Tepezza) infusion therapy

Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) FAQs for Laguna Woods Patients

Common questions from Laguna Woods patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Laguna Woods's mature adults, we incorporate age-related screening and medication review as part of the diagnostic process, since systemic conditions can affect results.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. For Laguna Woods's senior patients, we select treatments with attention to medication interactions, dexterity considerations, and overall comfort for long-term management.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Laguna Woods's senior patients appreciate our unhurried appointments and clear communication about treatment timelines and what to expect at each visit.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) Care for Laguna Woods Residents

Laguna Woods patients seeking care for thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) benefit from our 35+ years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic capabilities. For Laguna Woods's active adult community, we take a comprehensive approach that considers age-related risk factors, medication interactions, and quality-of-life priorities. We provide thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your individual needs. Whether your condition requires ongoing monitoring, medical therapy, or surgical co-management, our practice ensures continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.

About Laguna Woods

Active adult 55+ retirement community with exceptional amenities

Population: 16,000+

RetireesActive seniorsGolfersSocial community

Languages Spoken in Laguna Woods

Our practice serves the diverse Laguna Woods community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishKoreanMandarin

Eye Health Priorities for Laguna Woods

  • Cataracts and cataract surgery co-management
  • Glaucoma screening and management
  • Macular degeneration monitoring
  • Diabetic eye disease screening
  • Low vision aids and rehabilitation

Conveniently Located Near Laguna Woods Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Laguna Woods patients living near:

Laguna Woods Village
Laguna Woods Village Golf Courses
Laguna Woods Village Clubhouses
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center

Getting to Our Office from Laguna Woods

Drive Time
25 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
12.4 mi

Laguna Woods patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 Freeway in approximately 25 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Laguna Woods Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Laguna Woods Village

Zip codes: 92637

Don't Delay Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)

Without timely care, thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) can lead to lasting visual impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes for Laguna Woods patients.

Why Laguna Woods Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy)

35+ Years of Experience

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has served Orange County since 1991, with extensive experience treating thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy).

Advanced Diagnostics

OCT imaging, corneal topography, visual field testing, and retinal photography for precise diagnosis.

Insurance Accepted

VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and most major vision and medical insurance plans.

Convenient for Laguna Woods

Open Monday through Friday 9 AM – 6 PM with easy access from Laguna Woods and surrounding communities.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) Specialist in Laguna Woods

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating thyroid eye disease (graves' ophthalmopathy) and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Laguna Woods

See why your neighbors in Laguna Woods trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Thyroid Eye Disease (Graves' Ophthalmopathy) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Laguna Woods and Orange County residents.