At Luxe Aesthetics, our physicians specialize in diagnosing and surgically treating eyelid conditions while preserving both eyelid function and natural appearance.​ Our oculoplastic surgeons evaluate and treat eyelid lesions, chalazia, eyelid tumors, and suspicious eyelid growths for patients across Raleigh, Cary, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Greenville.​ If you notice a new eyelid growth, a bump that does not resolve, or a lesion that changes in appearance, an examination can determine whether treatment or removal is appropriate.​​

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What Is an Eyelid Lesion?

Eyelid lesions are growths or abnormalities that develop on the eyelid skin. They may appear as bumps, pigmented spots, plaques, or cyst-like structures on the eyelids. While most eyelid lesions are benign, some can represent precancerous or cancerous conditions that require medical intervention.​ These growths may develop slowly over time or appear suddenly. Some lesions are related to blocked oil glands, while others originate from skin cells, pigment cells, or blood vessels.

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Eyelid lesions may appear as:

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• Small bumps on the eyelid

• Raised skin growths

• Pigmented spots or moles

• Yellow plaques on the eyelid skin

• Cyst-like lumps within the eyelid

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Many eyelid lesions are harmless and require no treatment. However, some lesions may affect vision, cause irritation, or raise concern for skin cancer, making professional evaluation important. Because the eyelids are delicate structures that protect the eye and maintain tear film health, evaluation by an ophthalmologist trained in eyelid surgery is important.​

 

Common Benign Eyelid Lesions

Most eyelid lesions are benign (non-cancerous). Common examples include:

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Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are common skin growths associated with aging. They can appear anywhere on the body, including the eyelids, and often have a waxy or “stuck-on” appearance. These lesions may vary in color from light tan to dark brown and are typically harmless.

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Papillomas (Skin Tags)
Eyelid papillomas are benign growths that arise from the outer layer of skin. They are often smooth, round, or slightly lobulated and are commonly referred to as skin tags when located elsewhere on the body. Papillomas may be removed if they become irritated or cosmetically bothersome.

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Nevi (Moles)
A nevus is a benign collection of pigment cells, commonly known as a mole. Moles may be present at birth or develop later in life. Most eyelid moles do not require removal unless they change in appearance or cause irritation.

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Hemangiomas
Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors that originate from blood vessel cells. These are most commonly seen in infancy and childhood and often gradually shrink as a child grows.

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Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly lesion caused by long-term sun exposure. Although considered precancerous, these lesions can be treated effectively when identified early.

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Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma are yellow plaques that develop on the eyelids. They are often associated with elevated cholesterol levels and may gradually enlarge over time. While benign, many patients choose removal for cosmetic reasons.

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Cancerous Eyelid Lesions

Although most eyelid lesions are benign, some may represent skin cancer. The three most common malignant eyelid tumors include:

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Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common eyelid cancer, typically related to long-term sun exposure.

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Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
A more aggressive skin cancer that may arise from precancerous lesions such as actinic keratosis.

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Malignant Melanoma
A rare but serious cancer arising from pigment-producing cells.

 

If a lesion appears suspicious, your physician may recommend an excisional biopsy to determine whether cancer is present. If cancer is confirmed, treatment may involve collaboration with dermatologic specialists experienced in Mohs surgery, a precise technique that removes cancer while preserving healthy tissue.

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How Eyelid Lesions Are Diagnosed

Eyelid lesions are typically identified during a comprehensive eye examination. Your physician will carefully examine the eyelids, eyelashes, and surrounding skin using magnification and specialized lighting.

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During the exam, the physician will evaluate:

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• The lesion’s shape and borders

• Color and pigmentation

• Growth pattern

• Any associated irritation or inflammation

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If needed, removal and biopsy of the lesion may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

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Eyelid Lesion Removal Procedure

Most eyelid lesions can be removed with a minor outpatient surgical procedure performed in the office.

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On the day of the procedure:​

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1. The eyelid area is cleaned and prepared.

2. Local anesthesia is used to numb the eyelid.

3. The lesion is carefully removed using delicate surgical techniques designed to preserve eyelid function and cosmetic appearance.

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The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes. Removed tissue is usually sent to a pathology laboratory for examination to confirm the diagnosis.

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Recovery After Eyelid Lesion Removal

Recovery after eyelid lesion removal is generally quick. Mild swelling or bruising may occur for several days but usually resolves on its own. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities shortly after the procedure. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor healing to ensure optimal recovery. Potential risks are uncommon but may include bleeding, infection, or temporary swelling.

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When Should an Eyelid Lesion Be Evaluated?

You should consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice:

• A new bump or growth on the eyelid

• A mole that changes in color, shape, or size

• A lesion that bleeds, itches, or becomes painful

• A growth that interferes with vision

• A bump that persists despite warm compresses

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 Early evaluation allows for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment while protecting the delicate structures of the eyelids.

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