ORBITAL EYE TUMOR

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Eye tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Tumors within the bony orbit, or eye socket, should be evaluated and treated as soon as possible. Even a benign tumor may cause pain or damage to the eye or optic nerve. The tumor may push the eye forward, creating a bulging appearance and making it difficult to close the eye completely. Orbital tumor removal treatments by the board-certified ophthalmologists of Oculoplastic Associates of Texas safely removes tumors from the eye socket while keeping a normal, attractive appearance for their Dallas and Plano area patients. 

There are numerous treatment options available for orbital tumors, depending upon the type of tumor and its size and location. In some cases, surgery will be recommended to fully remove the tumor. In other cases, it may be best treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy. 

After the surgery, patients should expect to have swelling and bruising around their eyes for 7 – 10 days. Our surgeons advise patients to plan for 1 – 2 weeks of recovery and rest before resuming their normal activities. Patients should schedule a follow up appointment for 5 – 7 days after the procedure, when the doctor will remove the stitches and evaluate their healing. Once fully healed, the eyes will look younger and re-energized.  

To determine the presence of a tumor, testing will be performed. This may include a CT scan or an MRI. Sometimes a mass can be located during physical examination of the area around the eye. The doctor may be able to determine the type of tumor based on imaging studies and will recommend treatment based on these findings. 

Tumors of the eye socket often push the eyeball forward and the patients notices an abnormal bulging (also known as proptosis). Some tumors of the lacrimal gland (tear gland) can cause a bump or pain felt through the upper eyelid. Other symptoms may include pain, double vision, and impaired vision. 

Surgical technique, approach, and recovery for eye socket tumors vary depending on the location and tumor type. Surgery can usually be performed on an outpatient basis.