Eyelid tumors
We remove benign and malignant eyelid tumors completely to prevent their spread and damage to surrounding tissues. In the treatment of malignant eyelid tumors, our specialists work alongside a pathologist to ensure complete removal of cancerous cells. We use advanced technology and prioritize both the aesthetics and functionality of the eyelid.
What are eyelid tumors?
Eyelid tumors are a common reason for ophthalmology consultations. Most cases are benign, such as styes, warts, or cysts. However, we also frequently diagnose malignant tumors of the eyelid. These must be entirely removed to avoid growth and invasion of nearby tissues.
Early intervention is key to preventing spread, irreversible damage to surrounding tissue, or metastasis.
Malignant Eyelid Tumors
Malignant eyelid tumors arise from various causes, and rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial to fully remove the tumor while minimizing damage and preventing it from spreading around the eye or to other parts of the body.
If you notice any sign or suspicion of a lesion, book an appointment with our specialists at Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera.
The most common malignant eyelid tumors are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma. Associated with sun exposure, more common in people over 40 with fair skin. Proper eye sun protection, such as sunglasses, can help reduce the risk. It usually appears as a skin-colored or pink bump on fair skin, or shiny brown or black on darker skin. It is locally invasive and does not spread, so the mortality rate is very low. Nonetheless, removal is important to avoid discomfort, recurring sores, and aesthetic concerns.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Also related to sun exposure and more frequent in fair-skinned individuals. This tumor is more invasive than basal cell carcinoma, causes greater tissue destruction, and can spread and cause metastasis. Prompt, complete removal is essential.
- Sebaceous Carcinoma. A relatively frequent malignant eyelid tumor. It’s often misdiagnosed due to its resemblance to a stye or chronic blepharoconjunctivitis in one eye, leading to late diagnosis. For this reason, any suspected eyelid or eye disease should be evaluated by a specialist. This tumor spreads easily over the conjunctiva and through metastasis.
There are also less common eyelid tumors such as melanomas, sarcomas, lymphomas, and other carcinomas. In all cases, it is essential to consult a specialist promptly if there’s any suspicion.
Think it could be your case? Schedule an appointment at Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera.
Benign Eyelid Tumors
Benign eyelid tumors should not be underestimated. Most have viral or infectious causes, and removal is essential to prevent spread. These lesions are often bothersome and impact the patient’s quality of life. Additionally, in some cases, what appears to be a benign tumor may hide a more serious condition, making early evaluation important.
The most common eyelid tumors are styes, watery cysts, and nevi or lentigines. Sebaceous cysts and warts are also very common.
What is the treatment?
In benign cases, removal under local anesthesia is usually sufficient. It is an outpatient procedure, with no need for hospitalization. Patients can return home the same day.
Treatment requires surgery with local anesthesia and sedation. At Instituto de Oftalmología Castanera, we also perform biopsies during surgery with the assistance of a pathologist to ensure complete removal of cancerous cells.
To leave the area completely free of malignant cells when removing eyelid tumors, it is often necessary to remove a significant portion of the eyelid. For this reason, malignant eyelid tumor removal surgeries require reconstructive techniques to restore both the appearance and function of the eyelid.
The extent of the resection and the need for postoperative oncological monitoring and treatment depend on each case, and are required when there is a likelihood of metastatic spread.
At Instituto Castanera, we have a well-established team of highly qualified professionals with years of experience in the surgical treatment of eyelid tumors and in aesthetic and functional eyelid reconstruction. We have advanced equipment to ensure a safe and effective procedure with the best results.
Our specialists talk about eyelid tumors
Las malposiciones palpebrales
Granitos o bultos alrededor de los ojos
Professionals who form the medical team for eyelid tumors
Frequently asked questions
Although some eyelid tumors are very visible, others go unnoticed for a long time due to their small size. They are more common on the lower eyelid than on the upper one. They are often identified by skin ulceration, the appearance of nodules, or irregularities along the eyelid margin.
They cannot be prevented in all cases, but it is possible to act on the risk factors associated with the development of certain types of malignant eyelid tumors, mainly by protecting the eyes from UV rays.
In addition to a more obvious appearance than in earlier stages, common symptoms include altered eyelid function, redness, swelling, discharge, or bleeding.
Some types appear mainly in childhood, while others—such as those related to sun exposure—are more common after the age of 50. For this reason, regardless of age, any suspicion of an eyelid tumor should be assessed by a specialist. If this is your case or that of a family member, schedule an appointment with us.
