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Eye Conditions

Eyelid Lesions

What Is an Eyelid Lesion?

An eyelid lesion is a pathological change in the tissue of the eyelid. There are many types of lesions, most of which are benign or harmless. However, some lesions may be malignant or cancerous. This section focuses on benign lesions.

An eyelid lesion may be pigmented or colored. These include relatively common disorders such as styes and chalazia, which are small bumps on our eyelids.

Other types of benign eyelid lesions include seborrheic keratoses, papillomas, nevus, hemangioma, actinic keratosis and xanthelasma.

Seborrheic Keratoses

Seborrheic keratoses (SK) are the most common type of benign tumor and are associated with aging. SKs can occur anywhere on the body, including the eyelids, and can range in color from light tan to dark brown or black. Once you have one SK, you are likely to develop more of them. These growths, which look like they’re stuck onto the surface of your skin, are usually uneven in texture, and can be very itchy. Scratching them can cause bleeding and can also lead to infection. Normally treatment of SKs is not necessary.  However, an SK can be surgically removed from the eyelid for cosmetic reasons, if it interferes with your vision, or if your doctor sees anything abnormal. When an SK is removed, the tissue is usually sent for a biopsy for precautionary reasons.

Papilloma

A papilloma is smooth, round benign tumor that originates in the epithelium or outer layer of skin on your eyelid. It is also called a squamous papilloma and is the most common type of benign eyelid tumor and is associated with aging. This type of papilloma is commonly called a “skin tag” when located on other parts of your body.

In some cases, a papilloma can be caused by a viral infection and are known as “viral warts”. Viral papillomas are more common in children and teenagers. They can have a fleshy, lobular appearance like cauliflower. They also can continue to grow larger. 

Eyelid papillomas rarely require removal for medical reasons. However, they can easily be removed in an outpatient procedure called cauterization.

Nevus

A nevus is a benign neoplasm made up of an overgrowth of melanocytes. In layman’s terms, it is a mole. A nevus can be present at birth but may also develop after birth, usually appearing in parts of the body exposed to sunlight. Normally moles on your eyelids would not be removed for medical reasons unless they interfere with your vision. However, if you notice changes in the shape of your moles, if they become painful, itchy or bleed, they should be removed and subjected to a biopsy.

Hemangioama

Hemangioma is a benign tumor of the endothelial cells that line blood vessels. This type of tumor appears shortly after birth or in infancy and grows rapidly for an initial period of time. Then, the tumor will gradually become smaller and usually resolve itself by the time the child reaches age 7. However, if this growth is situated near your child’s eye, it can have a serious impact on his or her vision. Therefore, early referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist is recommended.

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a scaly or white patch that forms on the surface of your skin, usually in those areas exposed to sunlight. Although AKs are benign, they are also considered to be pre-cancerous lesions. If you have an AK on your eyelid, our specialist in ocular plastic surgery can remove a tissue sample for biopsy.

Xanthelasma

Xanthelasma are lesions of yellow plaque on the eyelids. They can be soft, semi-solid or hard and have a tendency to spread and to become permanent. They occur frequently in people with elevated cholesterol levels and / or reduced levels of HDL, the “good” cholesterol. Xanthelasma can also be associated with uncontrolled diabetes. Although these lesions are benign, they may be unsightly and patients often want them removed for cosmetic reasons. If you have xanthelasma, the usual treatment is surgical removal, which can be performed in the office. There is a small chance of recurrence, especially in those with cholesterol abnormality.

How Are Eyelid Lesions Detected?

Eyelid lesions are detected during a comprehensive eye examination. The doctor will perform an external exam and slit lamp examination. Your eye doctor will examine your eyelids, lashes, and eyes.

How Are Eyelid Lesions Treated?

In most cases, benign eyelid lesions require no treatment. However, the lesion can be surgically removed from the eyelid for cosmetic reasons, if it interferes with your vision, or if your doctor sees anything abnormal. Any lesion that is surgically removed will normally be sent for biopsy.

Our board certified ophthalmologist who has completed a fellowship in oculoplastic surgery performs surgical removal of eyelid lesions. He will review the appropriate treatment options with you. 

During a surgical excision of an eyelid lesion, you will feel little or no discomfort. On the day of treatment, a staff member will welcome you. The staff will help you prepare for your surgery by putting eye drops in your eye. You will be given a gown to wear over your street clothes during your actual surgery.

You may be given a relaxing sedative. An anesthetic injection will also be given around the eye to prevent movement and discomfort. You will need a driver if sedatives are administered. The procedure normally takes less than 30 minutes. Typically, no eye patch is needed after the surgery.

Immediately after the surgery, you will rest in a comfortable reclining chair. Your family members may then join you in reviewing your follow-up care and schedule. You may be given eye ointment or eyedrops to prevent infection.

Your eye may appear to be slightly bruised and swollen following the surgery. However, this should not cause significant discomfort. Your surgeon will follow your progress to monitor for signs of inflammation and infection. 

Some potential complications from surgery include the risk of bleeding, infection and hematoma, which can usually be successfully treated. 

Oculoplastic Specialist at Kadrmas Eye Care New England

Meet our oculoplastic surgeon who specializes in the treatment of eyelid diseases and disorders:
  • David Chen, MD

Back to Eyelid Diseases and Disorders

Kadrmas Eye Care New England

55 Commerce Way, Plymouth, MA 02360
14 Tobey Road, Wareham, MA 02571
133 Falmouth Road (Rt 28), Mashpee, MA 02649
Phone Number:
​1-508-746-8600

Hours:
Monday through Friday - 
8 AM - 4:30 PM 
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