Tepezza Infusion in NYC

Tepezza is the first FDA-approved infusion treatment specifically designed to treat Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)—a rare autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and swelling around the eyes. TED can lead to symptoms such as bulging eyes, double vision, pain, and difficulty closing the eyelids. Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in NYC, offers Tepezza infusions for eligible patients in a monitored medical setting. With extensive experience managing both cosmetic and functional eye disorders, Dr. Schwarcz provides compassionate, highly skilled care for patients navigating the challenges of TED.

What Is Tepezza?

Tepezza (teprotumumab-trbw) is an intravenous medication that targets the IGF-1 receptor, a key player in the inflammation and tissue remodeling seen in Thyroid Eye Disease. By blocking this receptor, Tepezza helps reduce swelling, redness, eye bulging (proptosis), and double vision. It’s a non-surgical treatment that can significantly improve quality of life and visual function in TED patients.

Tepezza is typically administered as a series of eight infusions over 24 weeks, with each infusion spaced three weeks apart.

Who Is a Candidate for Tepezza Infusion?

You may be a strong candidate for Tepezza infusion in NYC if you:

• Have been diagnosed with active, moderate-to-severe Thyroid Eye Disease

• Experience bulging eyes, redness, pain, or vision changes due to TED

• Are early in the active phase of TED (when inflammation is ongoing)

• Have not previously responded to or prefer to avoid surgical treatment

Dr. Schwarcz will conduct a thorough evaluation and collaborate with your endocrinologist or primary physician to determine if Tepezza is the right fit for your treatment plan.

Who May Not Be a Candidate?

Tepezza infusion may not be appropriate for individuals who:

• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment

• Have uncontrolled diabetes (as the medication can affect blood sugar levels)

• Have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hearing problems, or are allergic to any components in Tepezza

• Are in the inactive or “burned out” phase of TED (in which case surgical solutions may be more effective)

During your consultation, Dr. Schwarcz will assess your medical history and current symptoms to ensure Tepezza is safe and likely to be effective for you.

Planning for Treatment

Here’s how to prepare for your Tepezza infusions:

• Consultation: A detailed exam and coordination with your medical team will take place prior to approval.

• Pre-Authorization: Our office will help manage insurance approvals, as Tepezza is a specialty medication.

• Scheduling: Once approved, you’ll be scheduled for eight total infusions, each one three weeks apart.

• Pre-Infusion Prep: On infusion days, eat a light meal and stay well-hydrated. No fasting is required.

We’ll guide you through the entire process to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.

What to Expect

Tepezza infusions are administered in a medical infusion center under the supervision of Dr. Schwarcz’s team. Each session lasts approximately 60–90 minutes.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Before the Infusion: A nurse will place an IV and review any recent symptoms or side effects.

• During the Infusion: Tepezza is slowly infused over the course of about 90 minutes. Most patients relax, read, or listen to music during this time.

• After the Infusion: You’ll be monitored briefly for any side effects and then discharged. Most people return to normal activities the same day.

Dr. Schwarcz and his team will closely monitor your progress throughout the treatment cycle and make any necessary adjustments.

Recovery and Side Effects

Tepezza is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, it can have side effects. These are typically mild and may include:

• Muscle cramps

• Nausea

• Fatigue

• Temporary changes in hearing

• Mild hyperglycemia (especially in diabetic patients)

Less commonly, some patients may experience infusion reactions or exacerbation of IBD symptoms. These risks will be reviewed in full prior to treatment.

Most patients begin noticing improvement after the second or third infusion.

Results

Tepezza has been shown to significantly reduce the symptoms of Thyroid Eye Disease, including:

• Reduced eye bulging (proptosis)

• Improved double vision

• Less redness and inflammation

• Decreased eye pressure and discomfort

• Enhanced eyelid closure and overall eye function

Results are often long-lasting, and for many patients, Tepezza prevents the need for future surgical correction.

Complementary Procedures

Once inflammation is controlled with Tepezza, some patients may still benefit from surgical procedures for residual concerns. These may include:

• Orbital Decompression: To reduce remaining eye bulging

• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty or Ptosis Repair): To restore eyelid function and appearance

• Strabismus Surgery: To correct misaligned eyes and improve double vision

Dr. Schwarcz will design a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Alternative Treatments

While Tepezza is the only FDA-approved medication for TED, other supportive or surgical options include:

• Surgical Decompression or Eyelid Surgery: For long-term functional and cosmetic correction in inactive TED

Each option is considered based on disease phase and severity.

Why Choose Robert Schwarcz, MD?

With over two decades of experience in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Robert Schwarcz is one of NYC’s leading authorities on Thyroid Eye Disease and its treatment. He combines clinical expertise, artistic precision, and patient-centered care to help individuals regain comfort, function, and confidence.

Struggling with Thyroid Eye Disease? Click the Request an Appointment button below to learn if Tepezza infusion is right for you. Let Dr. Schwarcz guide you toward lasting relief and clearer vision.