The pituitary sits at the base of the brain, just below the optic nerves (optic chiasm) and above the sphenoid sinus — the natural pathway surgeons use to reach it through the nose.
Why Pituitary Tumors Affect Vision
The optic nerves cross directly above the pituitary at a point called the optic chiasm. As a tumor grows upward, it can press on this crossing and interfere with vision.
What the Vision Loss Looks Like
The classic pattern is loss of the outer (peripheral) field in both eyes — sometimes described as tunnel vision. Because it comes on slowly, many people do not notice until it is advanced.
Testing Your Vision
A formal visual-field test measures your peripheral vision and gives a baseline. An eye (neuro-ophthalmology) exam is often part of the workup.
Can Vision Recover After Surgery?
When vision loss is caught early, removing the tumor with surgery often stops it and can improve it. The longer the nerves are compressed, the less predictable the recovery.Become our Patient. Send us your MRI and recent bloodwork and our team will review your case. Call 813-333-1186 or fax records to 844-691-5928.