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Eyelid Biopsy

We need to take a biopsy!

What does this mean?

You have a lump on your eyelid and it is not quite clear what it is, so we need to remove part of the lump for examination in more detail.  This is to establish a diagnosis so that the appropriate treatment may be decided.

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure will be done today using a local anaesthetic, which means you will be awake.  The local anaesthetic is an injection which is given to numb the eyelid.  Once the eyelid is numb you should not feel any pain or discomfort however you will still feel some touching or pulling sensations.  The biopsy is taken by making a small cut into the lump and removing part of it.  Some heat treatment may be used to stop bleeding or a stitch may be necessary.  You may need to wear a pad over your eye until the next morning.

What are the risks/complications with this procedure?

·    Local anaesthetic - It is important that you keep your head still while the local anaesthetic injection is being given.  You will feel a sharp sensation usually followed by a stinging or burning feeling which will last for about 5-10 seconds.

·    Bruising - You may have some bruising or swelling but this should settle down in about a week.

·    Infection - The eyelid usually heals very well and it is unusual to have problems with infection following surgery, some antibiotic ointment may be used immediately after the operation to reduce this risk further and you may be given some to take home.

What happens next?

You will routinely be brought back to the clinic in 2-3 weeks for review of the biopsy site.  The doctor will discuss the laboratory result with you and any further treatment that you may need.