
Have you noticed a bump, skin tag, or growth on your eyelid? While many eyelid lesions are harmless, they can become irritating, affect your vision, or simply be a cosmetic concern.
At New River Vision Care, we evaluate and treat many common benign eyelid lesions using derma cautery, a quick in-office procedure designed to safely remove select growths with minimal discomfort and downtime.
Derma cautery is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a precise, heated instrument to remove benign eyelid lesions while minimizing bleeding. Because it is highly accurate, it is particularly effective for treating delicate tissue around the eyes.
Most procedures are completed in the office and require very little recovery time.
After a comprehensive evaluation, derma cautery may be recommended for benign lesions such as:
Skin tags
Eyelid papillomas
Milia
Sebaceous cysts
Seborrheic keratoses
Other benign eyelid growths
Every lesion should be evaluated before removal. If a lesion appears suspicious or requires additional medical evaluation, we will discuss the appropriate next steps.

Your visit begins with a thorough examination of the lesion to determine whether derma cautery is the appropriate treatment.
If recommended:
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic.
The lesion is carefully removed using the derma cautery device.
You'll receive simple aftercare instructions before returning home.
Most appointments take less than 30 minutes.
Recovery is typically quick and uncomplicated. You may experience mild redness or a small scab while the area heals.
Most patients resume their normal daily activities shortly after treatment.
Optometrists are specially trained to evaluate the health of the eyes and surrounding eyelid tissues. Because eyelid lesions occur so close to the eye, it's important to have them examined by an eye care professional who can determine whether they're benign and recommend the most appropriate treatment or referral if needed.
If you have a lump, bump, or other eyelid lesion that is bothersome, changing in appearance, or affecting your comfort or vision, we're here to help.
Schedule an appointment with New River Vision Care to have your eyelid lesion evaluated and learn whether derma cautery is the right treatment for you.
What is derma cautery?
Derma cautery is a quick, in-office procedure that uses a fine heated instrument to safely remove many common benign eyelid lesions. It is a precise treatment that minimizes bleeding and promotes healing.
After an evaluation, derma cautery may be recommended for a variety of benign eyelid lesions, including:
Skin tags
Eyelid papillomas
Milia
Sebaceous cysts
Seborrheic keratoses
Other benign eyelid growths
Not all lesions are appropriate for removal with derma cautery. Your doctor will determine the best treatment option during your examination.
How long does the procedure take?
The actual procedure takes about 5 minutes. Including your evaluation and preparation, your visit is typically brief, making it easy to fit into your day.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience very little discomfort. The area is numbed before treatment, and many patients describe feeling only mild pressure or warmth during the procedure.
Is there any downtime?
There is very little downtime. You may experience mild redness or a small scab while the area heals, but most patients return to their normal daily activities immediately after their appointment.
Will there be a scar?
Because derma cautery is a precise treatment, scarring is typically minimal. Following your aftercare instructions will help promote the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Do I need to have every eyelid bump evaluated?
Yes. Even if a lesion appears harmless, it's important to have it evaluated by an eye care professional. Some growths require additional testing or referral, while many benign lesions can be safely treated in our office.
Is derma cautery covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies depending on whether the lesion is considered medically necessary to remove. Cosmetic removal may not be covered. Our team will discuss your options and any costs before treatment.
When should I schedule an appointment?
You should schedule an evaluation if an eyelid lesion:
Is growing or changing in appearance
Causes irritation or discomfort
Interferes with your vision
Becomes red, inflamed, or bleeds
Is cosmetically bothersome