Dermoids are benign congenital cysts that grow. They are the most common solid tumor that occurs within/around the eye socket. Recognizing and removing these cysts before they get large allows for a smaller incision and shorter surgical time.
A dermoid cyst is a collection of normal tissue growing in an abnormal location. These are not cancerous. Dermoids most often appear around or within the upper eyelid toward the ear side (temporal), but can also be found toward the nose (nasal) or even on the eye itself (epibulbar or limbal). These benign growths are semi-solid or firm, have a smooth surface, and are often attached to bone. Inside, they contain skin cells, hair, and oil. Aside from appearance, the main concern is that if a dermoid ruptures, its contents can trigger severe inflammation beneath the skin, which may result in noticeable scarring.
Vision loss from a dermoid is uncommon. The greater risk comes if the cyst ruptures, usually from trauma, causing a strong inflammatory reaction under the skin. This can create an environment for infection and lead to problematic scarring.
A follow-up visit is scheduled about a week after surgery to check the incision and ensure proper healing. The skin in this area typically heals very well. If surgery is not chosen, the cyst will be monitored with annual evaluations.
Every surgery has risks and benefits. The risks of this surgery are infection, bleeding, scarring, and a very minimal chance of recurrence. The likelihood of vision loss is extremely low, but any surgery on or around the eye has this risk. Dr. Lichtenstein will explain these risks and how they’re managed before surgery.
Most dermoid cyst removals take less than an hour and are done under general anesthesia. Children go home the same day.
Yes, a few small stitches are usually needed. In many cases, they dissolve on their own and don’t need to be removed.
Most children are back to school or playtime within a few days. Bruising and swelling fade quickly, and discomfort is typically mild.
Very rarely. If the outer portion of the cyst is not removed in its entirety, a new cyst could form. Once the cyst is removed, it is inspected to ensure that the whole thing came out. If not, Dr. Lichtenstein goes back to work to make sure everything is taken care of.
Every young patient deserves exceptional eye care delivered by a world-class pediatric ophthalmologist. Dr. Eric Lichtenstein’s decades of clinical and surgical experience have helped him become a leading New York pediatric eye surgeon. And The Pediatric Eye Center isn’t like eye care practices that rotate doctors through patient appointments. Dr. Lichtenstein will always be your child’s dedicated pediatric eye care provider. Dr. Eric Lichtenstein provides every Queens and Nassau County pediatric patient with high-level eye care. But that’s not the only reason kids (and their parents) love him. A father himself, Dr. Lichtenstein brings warmth, compassion, and humor to every exam room. He often laughs and jokes with children while performing their eye exams. Many children just can’t wait to see Dr. Eric again!
