Eyelid Growths

If you have noticed a new bump, lesion, or discoloration on your eyelid, it’s natural to feel concerned, especially when the cause isn’t immediately clear. Eyelid growths are common and usually benign, but some lesions require closer evaluation to rule out skin cancer or other underlying conditions.

Simple Solutions for Eyelid Lesions

When it comes to treating eyelid growths, Dr. Michael Connor offers simple, in-office lesion removal procedures. These procedures can improve vision and determine the danger posed by the growth. If the lesion is large enough, it may become irritated or affect vision, even when benign.

female patient walking with staff member down a hallway

What Are Eyelid Growths?

Though many eyelid growths tend to be benign, their appearance does pose some risk of cancer. Cancerous skin lesions that occur around the eye or on the eyelid include squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), melanoma, and sebaceous gland carcinoma. In order to determine the nature of the growth, a biopsy or tissue sample can be extracted in the office with local numbing medication. This simple extraction is required in order to provide patients with a definitive diagnosis. If the lesion is cancerous, a second operation will be done to remove all of the cancer cells.

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Who Is Most Likely to Have Eyelid Growths?

People with light skin and eyes typically have less melanin in their bodies and are more likely to develop eyelid cancer. Additionally, individuals over the age of 50 or those frequently exposed to UV radiation are at increased risk. A history of sunburns or fragile skin from prior damage can also heighten the chance of developing cancerous lesions.

Why Is a Biopsy Recommended?

Eyelid skin is delicate and exposed to the sun, making it a potential site for both benign and malignant growths. When an eyelid lesion has an unusual appearance, changes over time, bleeds, or fails to heal, a biopsy is the most accurate way to determine what it is.

A biopsy helps us:

Confirm whether the growth is benign or malignant
Identify the specific type of lesion, such as a cyst, papilloma, or basal cell carcinoma
Determine the appropriate next steps for treatment, if necessary

Eyelid Biopsy: What to Expect

A biopsy of an eyelid growth is a quick, in-office procedure that typically takes no more than 30 minutes from start to finish.

The steps include:

Cleansing the area: The skin around the lesion is gently cleaned.
Numbing the eyelid: A small local anesthetic injection ensures you won’t feel pain during the procedure, just a momentary pinch and some mild pressure.
Removing the sample: Depending on its size and location, a small portion or the entire growth is carefully removed.

Benefits of Removing Eyelid Growths

If your biopsy shows a malignant lesion, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or sebaceous gland carcinoma, the next step is complete removal. In many cases, this is done using Mohs micrographic surgery, a precise technique performed by a dermatologic surgeon to remove cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. This approach allows for maximum accuracy and minimal cosmetic impact.

Our office will then coordinate with your Mohs specialist to plan reconstructive eyelid surgery, ensuring both functional protection of the eye and the best possible cosmetic result.

What Can I Expect During My Treatment?

Removal of a cancerous skin lesion around the eye or on the eyelid can be performed by an oculoplastic surgeon with the help of a pathologist to ensure all of the cancer cells have been removed. Alternatively, a Mohs dermatologic surgeon who is specially trained to remove skin cancers can remove the lesion, and then you might be referred to our oculoplastic surgeon who specializes in reconstruction of Mohs defects of the eyelid and midface.

“Dr. Connor and his staff are simply the best.”

"He truly cares about the successful outcome of your request. Dr. Connor’s demeanor is reassuring, patient, and kind. He is a true expert in his specialties. The office is beautiful and immaculate. I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else.”

– LuAnn O.

Recovery After Removing Eyelid Growths

If cancer is found while eyelid growths are being removed, patients may need additional therapy following the procedure. Therapy may include extended monitoring, radiation, and chemotherapy. While you recover from your procedure, Dr. Connor will periodically check up on you to make sure that your body is healing properly. Follow-up appointments are recommended, especially if cancer is present, to monitor for signs of recurrence.

How Much Does Treatment Cost?

The cost of reconstructive procedures will be determined during your consultation with Dr. Michael Connor. He is available to provide the personalized care and information you need to make confident, informed decisions about your treatment.

Is It Covered by Insurance?

Our practice is self-pay and does not submit claims to insurance companies. However, we can provide the necessary documentation, such as procedure and diagnosis codes, for you to submit a claim on your own. Depending on your insurance plan and out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurance provider in advance for more information about your specific coverage.

Don’t Ignore Eyelid Changes

Even if an eyelid growth doesn’t cause pain or seem serious, prompt evaluation by an oculoplastic specialist can give you clarity and peace of mind. Early diagnosis is essential, especially for growths that could be malignant. If you have noticed a persistent or changing lesion on your eyelid, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with our team.

Help With Removing Eyelid Growths in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Palm Beach Gardens oculoplastic surgeon Michael Connor, MD, is considered one of the top eyelid surgeons in South Florida. As an eyelid surgery expert, Dr. Connor can perform eyelid growth removal procedures and assist in determining the cancer risk they pose. For more information about our surgical treatments, please contact Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants today by calling (561) 845-6500 or filling out the form below.

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