prominent eye

I have a paper cut in one eye about 4 years ago i noticed some changes in vision at the time.  Went to an eye hospital A&E and was given antibiotics and lotions.  I went back a couple of times because the eye was dry at night on the last visit they said there was no evidence of damage and if i was worried to see an optician the next time.  I was also concerned because the eye seemed more pronounced than normal.  Looking at historic photos i think one was always a bit more set forward but it was more noticable.

Anyway went to the option who said eyes were fine - i said the old injured one felt a bit irritated but he said this was probably historic he couldnt see any scaring.

I forgot about it for about 18 months but recently have started to notice again that one eye is further forward.  Its really bothering me a lot - its all i notice when i look in a mirror.  

Is it possible the shape of the eye could have changed as a result of the scratch - i think before it was 20/20 now its slightly nearsighted - but dont need glasses - the other eye is 20/20.  Or am i obsessing about this?  Any thoughts appreciated.  I am 38.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

An old scratch could  possibly cause some astigmatism in select cases and this would be seen very easily on a corneal topography test so you need to have that test done.  You  could also have a recurrent corneal erosion which could cause intermittant irritation and even pain in the eye as the original scratched area erodes periodically.  Now regarding the eye protruding forward - this could be a sign of thyorid eye disease or another orbital disorder.  See ophthalmologist as soon as possible and you might even need a ct scan of the orbits to make sure something is not pushing eye outward.  Good Luck.

MJK MD