Does myopia affect the prominence of an eye? Can an eye become prominent because of myopia?

Myopia, or Nearsightedness, is usually caused by an eye that has grown to a larger diameter than it needs to be for the focusing power of the cornea/lens combination at the front of that eye.

The degree of myopia is typically proportional to the size of the eye. This means that, yes, a very nearsighted eye is often more prominent within its socket (called the "orbit")and may even protrude somewhat beyond its rim. This is a generalization, of course, and there are certainly other reasons for a prominent eye. For example, people of African-American ethnicity often have shallow orbits which can create the same appearance. Hyperthyroidism can also cause the eyes to protrude to an abnormal degree.

_Written by J. Trevor Woodhams, M.D. - Chief of Surgery, Woodhams Eye Clinic