Have you noticed bumps or lumps on your eyelids? You may have eyelid lesions.
Eyelid lesions are very common. They come in many sizes and shapes and can be benign or malignant.
Fortunately, if these bothersome growths don’t clear up on their own, there are ways to treat them. Keep reading to learn more about eyelid lesions and when to seek medical attention!
What is an Eyelid Lesion?
Eyelid lesions are lumps, growths, or bumps that can occur on the surface or underneath your upper and lower lids. Lesions may form slowly or rapidly and often vary in shape, color, and size.
There are different types of eyelid lesions. Some benign lesions could be signs of infection or other eye conditions, while others are totally harmless.
But in some cases, eyelid lesions can be malignant or cancerous. Benign lesions are often flesh-colored and may look like a mole.
Many don’t cause any irritation and are not bothersome unless you have a cosmetic concern. Malignant eyelid lesions may be red, brown, black, or normal skin color.
You might notice that these types of lesions have trouble healing. A lesion may be malignant if it appears flat, firm and red, waxy or shiny, or as a rough or scaly patch.
What Types of Eyelid Lesions Are There?
There are different types of eyelid lesions. Some of the most common include:
- Cysts
- Skin tags
- Moles (nevi)
- Stye
- Chalazion
What Are the Causes of Eyelid Lesions?
There are many types of eyelid lesions, each with unique causes. They include:
- Allergies
- Sweat duct blockage
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Injuries like burns and scratches
- Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation
- Tumors
Additionally, certain factors increase your risk of eyelid lesions, such as:
- Smoking
- Older age
- Fair complexion
- Immunosuppression
- Prolonged sun exposure
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should see your eye doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Impaired vision
- Cosmetic issues
- Long-standing lesions
- Chronic eyelid infection
- New lesions on your eyelids
- Change in the color or shape of the lesion
- Eyelid lesions that are increasing in size
- Broken skin on your eyelid that doesn’t heal
- Change in the size, shape, and function of your eyelids
Keep in mind that most eyelid lesions are benign. However, due to the risk posed by malignant ones, seeing your eye doctor for any new or concerning growths is crucial.
Your eye doctor will assess the lesion and may perform a biopsy in some cases to ensure it is benign.
What Treatments Are Available For Eyelid Lesions?
Benign eyelid lesions often don’t require treatment. However, if the lesion is causing discomfort and pain or affecting your vision, it can be removed.
On the other hand, malignant eyelid lesions need special treatment since they can be especially dangerous. Treatment can include a biopsy, which involves extracting a small amount of tissue to sample.
Eyelid Lesion Treatment at Morganton Eye
If you have an eyelid lesion that interferes with your vision, looks unsightly, or appears to be changing or growing, our eye doctors can help.
Do you have a lesion on your eyelid? Schedule an appointment at Morganton Eye in Shelby, NC, today to find out if it should be treated or removed!
