The skin around the eyes is among the most delicate and exposed areas on the face, making it especially vulnerable to sun damage and abnormal growths. Reconstructive care can restore both function and appearance with safety, precision, and compassion.
Growths on or around the eyelids can be benign, pre-cancerous, or cancerous. They often appear in places where the skin is thin, fragile, and functionally important. Whether you're seeking diagnosis, removal, or post-cancer reconstruction, Dr. Boal offers specialized care tailored to the complexity of the periorbital region.
As a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, Dr. Boal combines ophthalmic expertise with advanced reconstructive skills. Her goal is to remove abnormal tissue completely while preserving natural eyelid movement, eye protection, and facial balance. Each treatment plan is customized, comprehensive, and grounded in both science and sensitivity.
WHAT TYPES OF GROWTH CAN OCCUR AROUND THE EYES?
Not all growths are cause for concern, but some can threaten vision or develop into cancer if left untreated. That’s why expert evaluation is critical, especially in high-risk areas like the eyelids.
Common types of growths include the following:
- Benign lesions such as cysts, skin tags, or chalazia
- Pre-cancerous changes, like actinic keratoses
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common eyelid cancer
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is more aggressive than BCC
- Sebaceous gland carcinoma is a rare but serious cancer that is often misdiagnosed
- Melanoma – potentially life-threatening if not caught early
Comprehensive Services for Skin Cancer and Growths
Dr. Boal offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic, removal, and reconstructive services for patients with eyelid lesions or skin cancers. Each step—from biopsy to final closure—is managed with an emphasis on accuracy, safety, and aesthetic integrity.
Biopsies
When a lesion is suspicious, a biopsy is often the first step. Dr. Boal samples the tissue, often with minimal discomfort, and sends it to pathology for a definitive diagnosis. This process ensures clarity on whether a growth is benign, malignant, or pre-cancerous and guides the next course of action.
Removal of Eyelid Growths
Benign or malignant, growths on the eyelids are removed with extreme care to preserve eyelid position and function. Dr. Boal uses advanced techniques to ensure complete removal while minimizing tissue loss and scarring. Even small lesions in this area require the attention of a specialist who understands both the anatomy and the mechanics of the eyelid.
Mohs Reconstructive Surgery
Dermatologists often use Mohs surgery to excise skin cancers with precision and accuracy. After the cancer is removed, Dr. Boal performs the eyelid or eyebrow reconstruction, restoring the form and function of the eyelid or surrounding facial area. Her work integrates seamlessly with the Mohs process to ensure optimal cosmetic and functional results. She works with many MOHS surgeons in the Lansdale and Greater Philadelphia area.
EARLY EVALUATION MATTERS
The earlier a suspicious lesion is identified, the more options are available for safe and effective treatment. In many cases, early-stage cancers or pre-cancerous lesions can be treated with minimal disruption to the eyelid or surrounding tissue. Dr. Boal encourages patients to seek evaluation for any new, changing, or persistent growths near the eye.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- A new bump or sore that doesn’t heal
- A lesion that bleeds, crusts, or grows over time
- Thickening, discoloration, or distortion of the eyelid margin
- Loss of eyelashes in one area
- Recurring “styes” or chalazia that don’t resolve
