Eyelid Tumors

What Is Eyelid Tumors?

Eyelid tumors are abnormal growths around the eyes that may be either benign or malignant. While basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignant type of tumor, several other types may occur along the eyelid as well. Benign growths such as simple cysts or styes (chalazia) may also occur. Too much exposure to sunlight is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer of the eyelids.

What are the symptoms of eyelid tumors?

Often, eyelid tumors may be symptom-free and are only noted as a growth along the eyelid. In other cases, redness, pain, discharge, bleeding, loss of eyelashes, or erosion of the surrounding skin may indicate that a tumor is present.

Diagnosis of Eyelid Tumors

Careful examination by an experienced physician is performed to evaluate these lesions. Often, these growths will be photographed for further evaluation. A simple biopsy can determine the nature of an eyelid tumor, and treatment often depends on the results of the biopsy.

While the prognosis for eyelid tumors is generally quite good, they must be evaluated and treated promptly. If left untreated, these lesions can grow, and can infiltrate and erode the eye and its surrounding structures.

Treatment at Penn

After a biopsy is performed, some tumors will not require any further treatment, while others can be managed with surgical removal, medical treatment, or radiation. If surgical removal becomes necessary, plastic surgery techniques can be used to repair the appearance and function of the eyelid.

Penn Programs & Services for Eyelid Tumors