Eyelid bumps, lumps, or growths, also called lesions, are very common. They can be benign or malignant (cancerous), but more often than not are benign. Clinical examination and occasionally a biopsy are required for a definitive diagnosis as to determine whether they are benign or malignant. Benign tumors, even though they are non-cancerous, typically require removal and therefore must be examined carefully in order to plan the best method of removal. The lesion is assessed by its size, color, shape, mobility, location on the eyelid, and tenderness. If the lesion is suspected to be a malignant tumor, additional evaluation is likely needed, often including a full medical examination.

Diagnosing An Eyelid Lesion

The diagnosis of an eyelid lesion begins by determining the history of your eye health. This includes any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as change in vision, discharge, or tenderness, as well as the full evolution of the lesion from the beginning. Other major facets would include determining whether there is any history of skin cancer, immune system disorders, or experience with radiation therapy.

Physical examination includes assessment of location, how the lesion appears, and the surrounding skin around the lesion. Your physician will check for any irregular pigments, loss of normal eyelid shape, ulceration with crusting or bleeding, and pearly, smooth edges accompanied by central ulceration. Additionally, a picture can be priceless for following progression of the lesion or assessing a response to the treatment.

How Are Lesions Treated?

In most cases, benign eyelid lesions require no treatment other than being surgically removed from the eyelid for cosmetic reasons or if it interferes with your vision. The majority of lesions around the eyelids can be easily removed in their entirety, though the treatment depends on the diagnosis which is obtained by a biopsy. Malignant tumors may require further treatment using either chemotherapy or radiation therapy after excision, depending on their diagnosis.

Surgical Removal Procedure

Surgery of eyelid lesions can usually be done under local anesthetic, with the closure done using very fine stitches that are almost invisible. During the excision of a lesion, you will experience almost no discomfort. You may be given a sedative, and typically an anesthetic injection is given around the eye to prevent pain and movement. Procedures, other than in special situations, are outpatient and brief. There may be some bruising and swelling immediately following the surgery, but there should not be significant discomfort. It is crucial that you attend any follow up appointments to ensure your eyes are healing properly.

If you would like to learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of eyelid lesions, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at Aesthetics by OCLI today!