Orbital Tumors
Benign orbital tumors can be a great hindrance to one’s vision and appearance. Those struggling with these growths are all too familiar with how uncomfortable they could be. When malignant, these tumors can pose a great deal of danger and may potentially be life-threatening. If you’re struggling with orbital tumors, we invite you to speak with Dr. Connor at Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants.
What Are Orbital Tumors?
The orbit is a cavity where the eye sits and is composed of bony walls, fat, muscles, lacrimal gland, nerves, and blood vessels. An orbital tumor is a growth that can arise from any of these structures. Occasionally, a tumor may develop in the brain or sinuses and invade the orbit. In some cases, having cancer elsewhere, such as in the breast or prostate can lead to the metalization of tumors to the orbit.
Who Needs Treatment for Orbital Tumors?
Orbital tumors can occur in both children and adults. Most orbital tumors are benign masses but can compromise the function of the eye muscles or optic nerve. The most common orbital tumors in children are dermoids and hemangiomas. The most common malignant orbital tumor in childhood is a rhabdomyosarcoma, which typically presents with rapid protrusion of the eye. For children and adults suffering from these tumors, surgery may be necessary.
How Does Treatment Work?
When you visit our center, we will conduct a thorough work-up of your eye region to rule out an orbital tumor. The work-up includes several measurements of the eye function, pupil function, eye motility, and the globe position. Imaging studies of the orbit such as a CT scan or MRI may also be needed to evaluate the tissues behind and around the eye. If a tumor is present, a biopsy may be required to diagnose the tumor. Further treatment may be required depending on the nature of the tumor.
How Can Treating Orbital Tumors Help?
Finding orbital tumors early can help doctors take measures to determine cancer risk and provide treatment. In some cases, an accurate diagnosis can be critical to the development of an effective treatment plan. By finding the tumors early, doctors can be more effective in providing treatment in the form of endovascular surgery, traditional surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other medical interventions.
Expectations During Orbital Tumor Surgery
Surgery to remove orbital tumors may last between 4-8 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the lesion. Reconstruction of the skull and eye socket may be needed as part of the procedure. Additionally, Some reconstructive treatment may be required for those suffering from Graves’ disease or other similar issues. While your own tissue is usually best for performing reconstruction, titanium plates and screws, hydroxyapatite cement, porous polyethylene, and resorbable fixation devices can be just as effective.
Recovery After Removal of Orbital Tumors
After your surgery, you may need to be hospitalized for 3-7 days. Healing can take anywhere between 2-6 weeks after hospitalization depending on the complexity of your issue. After recovery, cosmetic surgery can be an option to improve appearance. Following the surgery, high-energy radiation therapy may be used to specifically target to the site of the tumor and destroy residual cells
How Much Does Removing Orbital Tumors Cost?
Pricing for orbital tumor surgery depends on the size and location of your tumor. Additional components that can impact your overall expense include the follow-up treatments in the case of cancer. Treating orbital tumors may be an ongoing process, therefore coming in for an examination with Dr. Connor will be needed to get a thorough cost assessment. Dr. Connor can provide a cost estimate during an in-person consultation at our Palm Beach Gardens practice.
Does Insurance Cover This Treatment?
Some medical insurance plans cover the costs of orbital tumor surgery. Other plans may cover part of the costs, but require a co-payment. Ongoing radiology treatment in the case of cancer may also be covered. However, the amount of coverage you can receive for this treatment is highly dependent on the scope of your procedure and particular insurance provider. We encourage you to discuss costs before undertaking the procedure.
Excellent physician, extremely knowledgeable, personable and thorough. I wouldn’t trust my eyes to anyone else. I might add that his staff is very pleasant.
– Nancy S.
Orbital Tumor Removal in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Palm Beach Gardens oculoplastic surgeon, Michael Connor, MD is considered one of the top eyelid surgeons in South Florida. His years of experience in assisting patients with the removal of orbital tumors make him highly qualified to help you get the results you seek. For more information on what treatment entails, we invite you to contact Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants today by calling (561) 845-6500 or filling out the form below.
REQUEST CONSULTATION
