Taking a sample of, or removing, a lump in the socket behind the eye, to find out what it is and treat it.
What it is
Lumps behind the eye are often found on a scan after the eye is pushed forward or vision changes. A biopsy tells the team what the lump is; some lumps are removed completely at the same time.
The operation
The approach depends on where the lump sits: through the lid, the corner of the eye, or with a colleague from another specialty.
It takes one to three hours under general anaesthetic, usually with one night in hospital.
What it does not do
The diagnosis comes first. Treatment afterwards may be surgery, medicine, or care from another specialist.
Who it can help
It may suit you if diagnoses, and where needed removes, a lump behind the eye is what you notice most, and you are otherwise well.
- An eye pushed forward on one side
- Double vision or changing vision
- A lump seen on a scan
- Pain or pressure behind the eye
Your consultant works with radiologists and pathologists, and with other specialists where they are needed.
Recovery and risks
This is bigger surgery, and recovery takes longer. Your consultant will explain what to expect in your case.
The first two days
You stay in hospital overnight so the team can check the eye. Swelling and bruising are marked.
The first two weeks
Swelling settles slowly. Avoid blowing your nose, bending and heavy lifting.
Weeks two to six
Bruising fades and vision settles. Double vision, if you have it, usually improves.
Three to six months
The socket has settled. Any further treatment is planned at this point.
Possible risks
Every operation carries some risk. For eye socket lump biopsy and removal these include:
- Bruising and swelling that take a few weeks to settle
- Numbness of the cheek or forehead
- Double vision, which is usually temporary
- Bleeding or infection, which are uncommon
- Very rarely, a change in vision
Your surgeon will go through the risks that apply to you, and give you written information to take home.
Insurance
Eye socket lump biopsy and removal is sometimes covered when the problem affects your health or your vision. Surgery for appearance alone is not.
Check your cover with your insurer before your consultation, and your surgeon will supply what they need.
Questions patients ask
How soon will I know the result?
The laboratory usually takes one to two weeks. Your consultant will arrange to see you and explain it in person.
Will the eye look different?
Swelling and bruising settle over a few weeks. Your consultant will explain what to expect for your lump.
Is it cancer?
Many orbital lumps are not. The biopsy is how the team finds out.
Is it covered?
Usually yes. This is medical treatment.