Eyelid Tumor Removal for Dogs and Cats
Eyelid tumors are most frequently seen in dogs, and while most tend to spread locally rather than metastasize, their growth can be significant and sometimes aggressive. At Animal Eye Clinic, Dr. Robert M. Gwin removes eyelid tumors with a full thickness resection and cosmetic repair, a procedure that is more than 95 percent successful when properly performed.
Request an AppointmentWhy Eyelid Tumors Should Be Removed Early
Eyelid tumors are classified as benign or malignant. Fortunately, most eyelid tumors in pets spread locally and are generally not metastatic. Even so, they need to be removed while they are small and manageable, before eyelid function or the eye itself is damaged.
Do not wait to see how big the tumor will get. It will get bigger, which makes surgery more difficult and costly. As a tumor grows, it can rub the cornea, causing irritation and corneal ulcers, and it can distort the eyelid margin so it no longer protects the eye properly.
Signs of an Eyelid Tumor
- A lump, bump, or wart-like growth on the eyelid margin
- Bleeding or crusting on the eyelid
- Tearing, squinting, or discharge
- Redness or irritation of the eye
Full Thickness Resection
A complete section of the eyelid around the tumor, called a full thickness resection, is normally required. This is performed on an outpatient basis. The resulting defect is closed in two layers: the deeper layer with absorbable sutures and the outer layer with non-absorbable sutures. Recurrence of these tumors is extremely rare. Having a tumor “shaved off” frequently results in the growth coming back, which is why full thickness resection is the preferred approach.
Full thickness resection and cosmetic repair of most eyelid tumors is highly successful when properly performed, with success rates greater than 95 percent. Learn more about our surgical procedures, including entropion correction and other eyelid surgeries.
Eyelid Tumor FAQs
Are eyelid tumors in dogs cancerous?
Eyelid tumors can be benign or malignant, but most in dogs spread only locally and are generally not metastatic.
Should I wait to see if the tumor grows?
No. Eyelid tumors will continue to grow, making surgery more difficult and costly, so early removal is best.
How is an eyelid tumor removed?
Dr. Gwin performs a full thickness resection, removing a complete section of the eyelid around the tumor and closing it in two layers.
Why not just shave the tumor off?
Shaving off a tumor frequently leads to regrowth. Full thickness resection rarely results in recurrence.
How successful is eyelid tumor surgery?
Full thickness resection and cosmetic repair is more than 95 percent successful when properly performed.
Is eyelid tumor surgery an outpatient procedure?
Yes. Most pets go home the same day.
Have an Eyelid Growth Evaluated
Call (918) 632-0508 (Tulsa) or (405) 751-3821 (Oklahoma City) to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gwin.