With such a rare and complex disease, it can be difficult to know where to start. Most general ophthalmologists are not trained to treat TED. Likewise, few endocrinologists alone can manage the multifaceted struggles of TED specifically. Instead, many specialized clinics take a team approach. Lilly Wagner, M.D., is an oculoplastic surgeon. She says that it takes a team to manage each patient’s unique TED experience at Mayo Clinic’s Thyroid Eye Disease Clinic. “During their visit to the Thyroid Eye Disease Clinic, patients are evaluated by an oculoplastic and orbital specialist, a strabismus surgeon, an endocrinologist, and an ENT (ears, nose, and throat) surgeon,” says Dr. Wagner. “The goal of the visit is for patients to gain an excellent understanding of their disease process, to get an idea what their course may be over the next month or even years, and to learn about different treatment options that are available to them.” This team of doctors with such varied specialities gives patients the opportunity to take a personalized approach to their condition. Because the illness varies greatly in its presentation (patients may have very unique experiences and symptoms), you may need to consult multiple doctors concerning your TED symptoms.