What are the methods for removing eyelid nevi?

May 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Lu
Introduction
An eyelid nevus is a mole that appears on the eyelid and can generally be removed through methods such as direct excision and suturing, flap transfer repair, laser ablation, cryosurgery, or skin grafting. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo treatment under a doctor's guidance. Smaller eyelid nevi can be completely excised under local anesthesia, followed by layered closure of the incision using fine sutures or absorbable sutures.

  Eyelid nevi are moles that appear on the eyelid and can generally be removed through methods such as direct excision and suturing, flap transfer repair, laser ablation, cryosurgery, and skin grafting. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo treatment under the guidance of a physician.

  1. Direct Excision and Suturing

  For smaller eyelid nevi, under local anesthesia, an elliptical incision is made along the margin of the mole. After complete removal, the wound is closed in layers with fine sutures or absorbable sutures. This method is simple to perform, allows relatively quick recovery, and usually results in minimal scarring.

  2. Flap Transfer Repair

  When there is significant tissue defect after removal of an eyelid nevus, flap transfer repair may be used. Based on the location and size of the defect, a suitable flap is designed and transferred to cover the area. This technique effectively restores both the appearance and function of the eyelid, with the flap's color and texture closely matching surrounding tissues, resulting in a favorable cosmetic outcome.

  3. Laser Ablation

  This method uses the photothermal effect of lasers to instantly vaporize or carbonize the mole tissue for removal. For small and superficial eyelid nevi, laser ablation offers advantages such as minimal bleeding, reduced trauma, and faster recovery. However, multiple sessions may be required for complete removal, and deeper moles may leave scars or pigmentation.

  4. Cryosurgery

  Cryosurgery involves using cryogenic agents like liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the mole tissue, causing it to necrotize and fall off. The procedure is simple, often requiring no anesthesia or only topical anesthesia, and is suitable for small eyelid nevi. However, post-treatment complications such as blisters, hyperpigmentation, or scarring may occur. The efficacy may be less predictable than surgical excision, and repeated treatments might be necessary.

  5. Skin Grafting

  For large tissue defects resulting from extensive eyelid nevus removal, skin grafting can be performed. Full-thickness or intermediate-thickness skin grafts are typically harvested from areas such as behind the ear, the supraclavicular fossa, or the inner upper arm, then transplanted to the eyelid defect and sutured into place. Postoperative care of the grafted area should be intensified to ensure graft survival.

  In daily life, proper care of the skin around the eyes should be maintained to prevent infection. A light diet is recommended, avoiding spicy and irritating foods such as garlic, hot pot, wasabi, etc. Adequate rest is important, and excessive fatigue should be avoided to maintain overall health.