Eyelid Lumps and Bumps Removal in Richmond

Eyelid skin is so thin that even minor growths can become noticeable. Given how frequently we look at each other’s eyes, lumps or bumps can easily make someone feel self-conscious. Dr. Langelier, a board-certified oculofacial surgeon, provides professional eyelid lumps and bumps removal in Richmond.

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What Are Common Eyelid Lumps and Bumps?

The eye area features multiple complex structures, each of which can develop some manner of growth. Most of the bumps are noncancerous and pose minimal health risks. Still, their cosmetic impact is significant.

Common types we treat include:

  • Chalazions: One of the most common types is called a stye (or chalazion). It occurs when one of the oil glands in the eyelid becomes plugged and swells.
  • Cysts: These balloons of tissue form around different bodily materials (sweat, blood).
  • Skin tags: These painless, skin-colored growths are not dangerous but can become irritated or itchy.
  • Skin cancer: While most eyelid lumps and bumps are not cancerous, any bump that is growing, scabbing, bleeding, does not fully heal, or comes back should be checked for skin cancer.

What Is the Removal Process Like?

The method of removing a bump will depend on the type of growth. Dr. Langelier typically willeither drain or surgically remove a growth, always taking care to avoid any significant damage to the eyelid’s healthy structures. A chalazion (or stye) will often respond well to noninvasive treatment, including eye drops and warm compresses. If this is not successful, a drainage procedure may be required. Whatever technique is used, Dr. Langelier understands her patients may be nervous about having a procedure done near their eye. She also wants the entire process to be as comfortable as possible by using local anesthetic and offering ProNox for patients who would like an additional comfort measure.

Benefits of Removing Eyelid Lumps and Bumps

  • Restore a natural look to your eyelids
  • Improved comfort for your eyelid
  • Procedure performed by an expert in eyelid health

How Is a Growth Surgically Removed?

We usually can remove growths in-office with a quick procedure that takes just a few minutes. After numbing the treatment area, Dr. Langelier will carefully excise the growth with strategically placed incisions. The procedure’s goals are twofold: to remove the growth without it growing back and to preserve your eyelid’s natural appearance.

What Is Draining a Stye Like?

Dr. Langelier will usually approach the clogged oil gland from the eyelid’s underside. Once the eyelid is numbed, she will access the oil gland and drain it. To reduce bruising and swelling, Dr. Langelier will place an eye patch over the area. This provides comfort and works better than ice compresses in the initial hours after the procedure to reduce bruising and swelling and help you heal faster.

What Is the Recovery Like?

Both drainage and surgical removal entail very mild recovery processes. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any discomfort, and ice packs can help with any bruising. Stitches are only required for larger growths, which are rare, so most patients will need only minimal aftercare for the surgical sites. For example, Dr. Langelier may prescribe an antibiotic ointment to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing. For drainage procedures, a warm compress is encouraged starting on day 4 after the procedure to help the chalazion finish draining completely.

While Dr. Langelier would like someone to drive you home from your procedure since the eye can have some mild irritation or tearing after the procedure, there are no restrictions after a chalazion drainage. Most patients can return to work the next day. Most patients prefer having the procedure closer to the weekend to relax while they wait for any swelling or discomfort to fade.

What Will the Results Look Like?

Dr. Langelier always minimizes any unwanted visual impact on the eyelid after removing eyelid lumps and bumps. In most cases, the eyelid will return to its natural look without even the need for stitches. For larger cysts or growths, the incision can require sutures and may form a scar. Whenever possible, she makes incisions in areas where they would be hidden under the eyelid or in its natural folds. So, while there may be scarring, it is typically hidden, or any visible scar is typically much less noticeable than the bump that was removed.

Will Insurance Cover Eyelid Growth Removal?

Insurance companies may cover your procedure if it is medically necessary. However, each policy can vary, and our office will check with your plan to see if you are covered before proceeding with the treatment. Examples of when the procedure could be covered may include:

  • A growth that obstructs vision
  • The bump is suspicious for skin cancer
  • Patients who need a stye drained
Dr. Langelier Smiling

Schedule Your Consultation

Contact our office by phone to book your consultation with Dr. Nicole Langelier for eyelid lumps and bumps removal in Richmond. As a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, she has committed her life to ensuring patients with eyelid concerns can have a place where patient’s concerns can be met with compassion and top-notch care.

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