Orbital Tumors Upper East Side

Name: Orbital Tumors
Brand: Dr. Allison Coombs
Rating: 5 (126 reviews)

Tumors within the orbit may be rare, but they require expert diagnosis and surgical care. Whether benign or malignant, timely treatment helps preserve vision, comfort, and eye alignment.

woman smiling with her hair on her left shoulder

Expertise That Prioritizes Safe and Successful Outcomes Orbital Tumor Removal in NYC’s Upper East Side

Orbital tumors can impact vision, eye movement, or facial symmetry, sometimes without causing pain. Dr. Allison Coombs is a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon and ophthalmologist with advanced expertise in orbital tumor removal on the Upper East Side. Patients come to her for surgical precision, clear communication, and a thoughtful, individualized approach to care.

Using state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, Dr. Coombs provides safe, effective solutions for complex orbital conditions.

*Real Patient

About Orbital Tumors

An orbital tumor refers to any abnormal growth within the eye socket, whether it arises from muscle, nerve, glandular tissue, or surrounding structures. These tumors may be benign or malignant and can occur at any age. Symptoms may include the following:

Bulging or displacement of the eye
Double vision or restricted movement
Pain or pressure around the eye
Vision changes
Eyelid swelling or asymmetry

How Are Orbital Tumors Safely Removed?

Orbital tumor removal requires deep knowledge of the anatomy and proximity to critical structures such as the optic nerve, extraocular muscles, and blood vessels. Dr. Coombs uses advanced imaging at our Upper East Side clinic to map the tumor before surgery precisely and determine the safest route for removal.

Whenever possible, she performs orbital tumor removal using hidden or minimally invasive incisions to reduce visible scarring and recovery time. Each surgical plan is fully customized to preserve vision and restore balance to the orbit.

What Are the Benefits of Orbital Tumor Removal?

Surgical removal of an orbital tumor can resolve symptoms, improve appearance, and provide a definitive diagnosis, especially when pathology is uncertain. The benefits include the following:

Relief from pressure, pain, or eye displacement
Restoration of eye alignment and movement
Reduced risk of vision loss
Clarified diagnosis through tissue analysis
Improved facial symmetry and appearance

Are You a Candidate for Orbital Tumor Removal?

Not all orbital tumors require immediate surgery. However, if the tumor is growing, affecting vision or movement, or has uncertain features, removal may be recommended. The following are ideal candidates:

Patients with symptomatic orbital tumors
Individuals with progressive vision or eye alignment changes
People with unclear pathology requiring biopsy or removal
Adults in stable health who are able to undergo anesthesia
Non-smokers or those able to stop smoking prior to surgery

Dr. Allison V. Coombs

Choose Dr. Allison Coombs

Orbital tumor surgery is among the most complex procedures in oculofacial plastic surgery. Dr. Allison Coombs brings elite training and a measured, experienced approach to every case. As a fellowship-trained ASOPRS surgeon and board-certified ophthalmologist, she understands how to protect vision while performing delicate orbital dissection.

Dr. Coombs completed her surgical education at Tufts, Weill Cornell, and MEETH, where she now directs the oculofacial plastic surgery division. She is recognized for her precision, compassion, and ability to translate complex conditions into clear, reassuring plans. Patients seeking orbital tumor removal on the Upper East Side benefit from both her microsurgical skill and her commitment to long-term results.

The Consultation Process

During your consultation, Dr. Coombs will review your imaging (CT or MRI), perform a thorough examination, and discuss your medical history. She will explain whether observation, biopsy, or surgery is appropriate and outline the risks and benefits of orbital tumor removal. Upper East Side patients are encouraged to ask questions and participate fully in the decision-making process.

Treatment Cost

Costs depend on the size and location of the tumor, whether imaging or pathology is required, and the surgical setting. If the procedure is deemed medically necessary, insurance may cover part or all of the cost. Our team will assist with benefit verification and provide a clear breakdown of expenses.

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Basic Treatment Steps

Imaging is reviewed to plan the safest surgical route.
An incision is made through the eyelid crease, conjunctiva, or hidden location.
The tumor is carefully dissected and removed.
Tissue is sent for pathology if indicated.
The area is closed with fine sutures, and post-op instructions are provided.

After the Procedure

Swelling and bruising are common for one to two weeks, depending on the depth and size of the tumor. Vision may be temporarily blurry due to swelling. Most patients resume light activity within one week and see gradual improvement in comfort, appearance, and eye movement over the following weeks.

Orbital Tumor Removal Techniques

Incisional Biopsy – Sample taken for diagnosis
Excisional Removal – Entire tumor removed
Lateral Orbitotomy – Access to deep or lateral orbital tumors
Transconjunctival Approach – Hidden incision inside the eyelid
Endoscopic-Assisted Removal – In select cases involving the sinus or skull base

FAQ Orbital Tumors

Are all orbital tumors cancerous?

No. Many are benign, including cysts, vascular growths, and inflammatory masses. However, evaluation is needed to determine the type and behavior.

Is orbital tumor removal risky?

Like all surgeries near the eye, risks exist, but choosing a highly trained surgeon such as Dr. Coombs reduces those risks significantly.

Will I have a scar?

Dr. Coombs uses hidden or well-placed incisions, often in the eyelid crease or inner surface of the eyelid, to minimize visible scarring.

Is recovery painful?

Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure, which is manageable with medication and resolves quickly.

Will my eye appearance improve after surgery?

Yes—removal often restores symmetry, reduces bulging, and improves eye alignment.

Is orbital tumor surgery covered by insurance?

If the tumor is symptomatic or suspected to be malignant, insurance may cover the procedure.

How soon will I know the diagnosis?

If a biopsy is performed, results typically return in 7–10 days.