Eyelid Tumors (Skin Cancer)

See the eyelid expert in Nashville, TN, for a thorough examination of your eyelid tumor to assess the possibility of skin cancer.

Specialized Care for Eyelid Tumors

Because Dr. Sherman and Dr. Melson are ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons, eyes are their first priority. Our surgeons at Sherman Aesthetic Center are board-certified and have fellowship training in oculoplastic and eye plastic surgery, so they are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat eyelid tumors. Dr. Sherman and Dr. Melson know the eye and orbital anatomy to the highest degree and treat a wide variety of eyelid tumors and cysts. With over 50 years of combined experience, they are well-qualified to examine you and discuss all available treatment options with you.

What Is an Eyelid Tumor?

A tumor is an abnormal tissue growth that can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors typically remain localized, whereas malignant tumors often spread into surrounding areas. Eyelid tumors can affect any part of the eye, including the orbital (eye socket), eyeball, eye muscles, optic nerve, fat, and tissues. Sometimes, tumors grow into the eye area, or a tumor may travel to the eyelid from another part of the body. Fortunately, most eyelid tumors are benign. Tumors should be diagnosed immediately, and early treatment is vital in order to prevent possible loss of an eye. Dr. Sherman and Dr. Melson provide treatment for both types of eye tumors: eyelid tumors and orbital (eye socket) tumors. The following information will help to educate you about eyelid tumors and the importance of treatment.

Eyelid and Orbital Tumor Before & After Photos

At Sherman Aesthetic Center, we offer specialized care for growths located in the tissues surrounding the eye. Our experienced team employs cutting-edge diagnostic and surgical techniques to accurately identify and treat these tumors.

View Eyelid and Orbital Tumor Gallery

Benign Eyelid Tumors (Noncancerous)

Benign eyelid tumors are very common, and many types occur. The most common types seen in our practice are mole or nevus, papilloma, seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, and skin tags. They can surgically be removed if they cause symptoms or present a concern but are often left alone. Dr. Sherman will recommend a biopsy if a noncancerous diagnosis cannot be made with confidence from clinical examination. Some benign eyelid tumors are considered to be “premalignant” and are, therefore, best removed.

Malignant Eyelid Tumors (Eyelid Skin Cancer)

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most frequently encountered type of malignant or cancerous eyelid tumor
Comprise 85%-95% of all malignant eyelid tumors
The most common location is the lower eyelid
Fair-skinned, elderly people are most susceptible
Prolonged sun exposure is thought to be a risk factor
Raised, firm, and pearly with tiny dilated blood vessels
Causes loss of eyelashes when in the eyelash area
Rarely spread elsewhere
Most are effectively treated with surgical removal
Certain types, if neglected, may spread into the eye socket, which may require surgery to remove the eye and adjacent eye tissue

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinomas are the 2nd most common type of eyelid tumor
Comprise 5% of all malignant or cancerous eyelid tumors
The lower eyelid is the most common location
Fair-skinned, elderly people are most susceptible
Appear as raised nodules, excessive crusting & cause loss of eyelashes
Can spread to the neck lymph nodes if neglected
Early detection and surgical treatment achieve excellent results

Sebaceous Cell Carcinoma

Originates in glands of the eyelids in elderly people
Comprise 1%-5% of all malignant or cancerous eyelid tumors
Highly malignant and may recur, invade the eye sockets, or spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body
May masquerade as a benign lesion, appearing like a chalazion or stye
Usually requires surgical removal

Malignant Melanoma

Comprise 1% of all malignant eyelid tumors but are responsible for many of the deaths resulting from malignant eyelid tumors
Can arise from a pre-existing nevus or mole or may appear without any pre-existing lesion
Most commonly affects elderly, fair-skinned people
Early detection and treatment is critical to successful treatment and survival
Surgical removal is the most effective treatment

Reconstructing Eyelids After Tumor Removal

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently encountered type of malignant or cancerous eyelid tumor, which can be removed at an outpatient surgery center in conjunction with a board-certified pathologist, who can determine if margins are free of tumor. Once all of the tumor is removed and the margins are free of tumor, Dr. Sherman or Dr. Melson, our board-certified ophthalmologists and oculoplastic surgeons, can reconstruct the eyelid in one same-day surgery setting.

Why Choose Sherman Aesthetic Center?

With combined expertise spanning over 50 years, Dr. Sherman and Dr. Melson specialize in eyelid surgery and facial aesthetics, providing personalized and VIP-level care. Our treatments aim to rejuvenate and enhance the natural appearance and functionality of the eyelids, addressing issues like reconstruction after tumor removal. We prioritize individual attention, incorporating the latest surgical and injectable techniques for facial rejuvenation. All our providers undergo rigorous training, continuously refining their skills through additional courses. Sherman Aesthetic Center takes pride in offering cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical solutions, ensuring our patients benefit from the most advanced and innovative care available.