[Healingcc]

#1058821

I am a new user here. Diagnosed with Graves in June 2011 after almost 3 years of up and down symptoms. I also have a history of Hashimotos for the last 35 years. I was treated with RAI first week in October, and within 6 weeks had almost zero circulationg T4 and a TSH of 42. One month of 75 mcg of levothyroxine and labs showed TSH of 2.6 and FT4 of 1.1. I did not feel as well as the labs said I should but over the last several weeks have made good progress.

So here is my question: i had been looking at cosmetic proceedures for sagging skin, especialy on my face. This several years of thyroid stuff likely contributing. There is mention that the “skintyte” is contraindicated in autoimmune disaease. As I research I can only find references to Lupus. Anyone know if there are issues with laser skin tytening and thyroid disorders? Only other optioin would be a face lift, and that is much more drastic, expensive and invasive. I am in my mid 50’s but looking so much older.

Thanks for any input from anyone with more information than I can find

[Kimberly]

#1170194

Hello and welcome! Hopefully, you will get some other responses here. However, I wanted to mention that since both Graves’ and Hashi’s are autoimmune in nature, I would certainly use caution in trying a product that says it’s contraindicated for autoimmune conditions.

I’m dealing with mild TED myself, so I can definitely understand the frustration that comes appearance changes. Hopefully, you will find the right solution for you that is both effective and safe.

[Bobbi]

#1170195

A friend of mine has a form of lupus that affects the skin, and as a result, she is to avoid sunlight, which apparently makes the skin condition worse. That may be why the laser procedure comes with a statement that it is contraindicated in cases of lupus. As to whether it would be a problem with autoimmune thyroid disease, the ONLY person who could tell you that would be your dermatologist. An MD, in other words, who is knowledgeable about the treatment.

[hope1]

#1170196

I would refer you to the University of Michigan, Kellogg Eye Center for information re cosmetic procedures. You can do a search under thyroid eye disease or Graves. If you cannot find it, please let me know.

I had two orbital decompressions in the last month and was pretty heartbroken to see how much I had aged. Prior to the disease, I often heard I looked 10 years younger than my age. Never did a cosmetic procedure or would have considered one, just relied on good products for skin care. I did not mind the natural aging process.

Now, the results are pretty shocking. I have alot of loose skin that is wrinkled. I had signficant protusion, so I guess the tissue gets stretched pretty far. I am like you, and will look for some cosmetic improvements, based upon the advice of my docs. Michigan does mention laser resurfacing, mid face lifts and other procedures. Of course, the recommended course of action needs to be jointly decided with your physician.

I have some ways to go prior to do anything cosmetic-I have double vision now all the time after the decompressions. So the next surgery will be to correct the diplopia. it does seem to make sense to me that any cosmetic procedure should be with a team well experienced with Graves disease.

I found their website information helpful re cosmetic procedures-it was an unbiased source. Different from some of the plastic surgeons advertisement. I hope it is helpful for you as you make decisions. I think it is fair to consider what will make you feel good about yourself and regain your life. Best of luck. Bless.

[Healingcc]

#1170197

Thanks for the responses! I looked at the Kellogg site, and though there is a lot of mention about their areas of expertise, namely eyes, I did not find much about skin sagging etc. But there was good general information.

I am fortunate enough not to have typical GED, but that said, as I read some of these articles, the eye issues I have had over the last several years are beginning to fall into this category. For example, sunlight in my eyes, or wind causing significant issues. I even had an iridotomy for “narrow angles” because there was thoughts that my eye “pain” might be early sign I was getting narrow angle glaucoma. All fitting into place in hindsight!

I too used to look “younger than my age”. Used to win at the fairs where they guesses your age every time. Now, they would be off, but likely higher.

I am going to get an MD opinion at the Dermatology office, and also at the Plastic Surgeon’s office. My fear is that they have little understanding of autoimmune disease. Will also ask my Endocrine Doc yet he is about 35 and likely isn’t even thinking about “aging” issues.

I “woke up” with two trigger fingers while I was in the midst of my hyperthyroid state. My endocrine guy didn’t know, “everybody has different issues”; the hand surgeon, seeing my Grave’s disease diagnosis, said, it was obvious. A generalized inflammation of tendons so that they don’t “glide” smoothly. Asked if I had it in my feet yet etc. Did local injections, and resolved quickly.

So many things associated.

Thanks again for the posts. Will follow posts.

CC

[Author]

Posts