Lumps, bumps, and lesions on the skin can arise from a wide range of causes, from harmless cysts and benign growths to more serious conditions. Because of this variety, treatment options differ significantly. They may include simple observation, topical medications, minimally invasive procedures like cryotherapy or laser treatment, or surgical excision for biopsy or removal. If you notice any new or changing skin abnormalities, it’s essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations.
Chalazion
A chalazion is a small, painless lump in the eyelid. It is caused by a blocked oil gland (meibomian gland). Warm compresses applied to the eyelid several times a day can help it clear up on its own. If it persists, a doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure to drain the chalazion. This is usually done under local anaesthetic, where a small incision is made on the inside of the eyelid to remove the blocked material. After the procedure, antibiotic ointment is typically prescribed to prevent infection.
Eyelid Lesions
“Eyelid lesions” is a broad term that can encompass various growths or abnormalities on the eyelid. These can range from benign skin tags to more serious conditions. It’s crucial to have any persistent or changing eyelid lesion examined by a doctor, especially if they bleed, grow rapidly, or cause discomfort. Removal methods vary depending on the type of lesion. Benign lesions might be removed by surgical excision, cryotherapy (freezing), or laser treatment. More serious lesions may require a biopsy and more extensive surgical removal.
Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma are yellowish plaques that appear on or around the eyelids. They are deposits of cholesterol and are often associated with high cholesterol levels. A doctor may recommend a blood test to check your cholesterol levels. Removal is primarily for cosmetic reasons and can be achieved through methods such as surgical excision or TCA (Trichloroacetic acid). It is important to note that treating the underlying cholesterol issue is also very important.
Milia
Milia are small, white cysts that appear just under the skin’s surface. They are very common and are caused by trapped keratin. They are most often seen around the eyes and nose. Milia are usually harmless and often disappear on their own. If they persist, they can be removed by a doctor or dermatologist using a sterile needle to make a tiny incision and extract the cyst.
Cysts
Skin cysts are closed sacs filled with fluid or semi-solid material. They can occur anywhere on the body, including the eyelids. There are many different types of cysts. Most are benign. If a cyst is causing discomfort or is cosmetically bothersome, it can be removed by a doctor. This typically involves a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic, where the cyst is excised.
Twilight anaesthesia
Most surgeries at Regency Eye Hospital can be performed under local anaesthesia alone. If you would prefer more impactful sedation, we can offer twilight anaesthesia – a safe, conscious intravenous sedation given by an experienced and skilled Consultant Anaesthetist.
This form of anaesthesia is extremely popular with our patients and the effects are reversed very quickly. It enables local anaesthetic injections to be given painlessly with little recollection of the surgery, and helps to keep patients calm, relaxed and comfortable.
Any patients requiring general anaesthesia or who are unsuitable for surgery at our day case facility, Regency Eye Hospital, will be treated by our surgeons in a local private hospital.
