Vascular Tumors Upper East Side

Vascular tumors near the eye can appear suddenly or grow quietly over time. Though often benign, they may affect vision, appearance, or eye comfort if left untreated.

woman with her hair tied up and facing the left

Evaluation by a Specialist Helps Ensure Proper Diagnosis and Effective Treatment

Vascular tumors of the orbit are rare but important to recognize early. Whether you're experiencing eye bulging, discomfort, or simply a suspicious finding on imaging, Dr. Allison Coombs offers specialized care tailored to these delicate and complex lesions. With board certification in ophthalmology and oculofacial plastic surgery, she provides diagnostic clarity and surgical expertise rooted in safety and precision.

What Are Vascular Tumors?

Vascular tumors are abnormal growths of blood vessels within the eye socket. Most are benign but can grow, shift nearby structures, or press on the optic nerve. These tumors may arise from congenital malformations, abnormal blood vessel growth, or spontaneous development.

Symptoms may include the following:

Eye bulging (proptosis)
Pressure or pain behind the eye
Vision changes or double vision
Eyelid swelling or asymmetry

How Vascular Tumors Are Treated

Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s symptoms. Observation may be recommended for stable lesions, but symptomatic or growing tumors often require surgical removal or biopsy.

Dr. Coombs uses minimally invasive techniques when possible, prioritizing the protection of vision and surrounding structures. In some cases, interdisciplinary care is coordinated for optimal outcomes. Her practice emphasizes a calm, supportive experience, where patients feel heard and cared for at every step.

*Real Patient

What Are the Benefits of Prompt Treatment for Vascular Tumors?

Treatment can prevent long-term complications and improve both comfort and function. The advantages of seeking prompt treatment include the following:

Relief from pressure or pain
Reduced eye bulging or asymmetry
Improved vision or eye movement
Clarification of tumor type through biopsy
Prevention of optic nerve damage

Are You Considering Treatment for a Possible Vascular Tumor?

Candidates typically have symptomatic or growing tumors or unclear lesions needing a confirmed diagnosis. The following are ideal candidates:

Adults with documented or suspected orbital vascular tumors.
Patients experiencing discomfort, visual changes, or eye bulging.
Individuals who are cleared for imaging and potential surgery.
Non-smokers or those willing to temporarily stop smoking.
Patients who are able to follow through with recovery and follow-up.

Dr. Allison V. Coombs

Why Patients Choose Dr. Allison Coombs for Treatment of Vascular Tumors

Treating orbital vascular tumors requires deep anatomical understanding and the ability to safely navigate around critical structures like the optic nerve and eye muscles. Dr. Coombs brings elite fellowship training through ASOPRS and board certification in ophthalmology, giving her unique insight into how these tumors affect eye function and facial appearance.

Her surgical education includes Tufts, Weill Cornell, and MEETH, where she now leads the oculofacial plastic surgery division. Known for her balanced approach and excellent surgical outcomes, Dr. Coombs is trusted by referring physicians and patients alike for thoughtful treatment plans and steady, reassuring care.

Your Consultation

Your consultation begins with a detailed health history, visual exam, and review of imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Dr. Coombs will explain her findings clearly, discuss whether observation or treatment is appropriate, and outline next steps with transparency and care. Her practice emphasizes a calm, supportive experience, where patients feel heard and cared for at every step.

About Treatment Costs

The cost of treatment varies extensively depending on whether observation, imaging, biopsy, or full surgical removal is required. If the procedure is medically necessary, insurance may cover part or all of the cost. A personalized estimate is provided after your consultation.

Schedule A Consultation

What to Expect of the Treatment Experience

Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, typically as an outpatient procedure. Dr. Coombs uses refined, minimally invasive access whenever possible. Treatment typically includes the following steps:

Preoperative imaging and planning.
A hidden or small incision is placed to access the orbit.
The tumor will be carefully dissected and removed or biopsied.
Closure with delicate sutures.
Post-op instructions and close follow-up for monitoring.

After the Procedure

Mild swelling or bruising is common for the first seven to ten days. Most patients return to work or routine activity within two weeks. Vision and comfort gradually improve as swelling resolves. Full healing and pathology results (if relevant) are typically complete within one month.

Types of Vascular Tumors Treated

Capillary Hemangioma – Often seen in children.
Cavernous Hemangioma – Most common benign adult orbital tumor.
Lymphangioma – Often involves multiple compartments; may bleed or swell.
Venous Malformation – Can enlarge with pressure or trauma.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) – Rare, high-flow lesions requiring urgent care

Related Techniques and Procedures

Orbital Biopsy – For diagnostic clarity
Orbital Decompression – If pressure or nerve compression is present
Imaging Surveillance – For stable or small tumors
Scar Revision – If prior treatment led to cosmetic concerns

FAQ Vascular Tumors

Are vascular tumors always dangerous?

Not always. Many are benign, but their location can still cause problems that require treatment.

Will I lose vision from this surgery?

In expert hands like Dr. Coombs’, vision is protected. The goal is to preserve or even improve visual function.

Can these tumors return after removal?

Benign tumors rarely return if fully removed. Some vascular malformations may require staged or long-term management.

Is a biopsy always needed?

Not always. Imaging may be sufficient, but biopsy confirms uncertain diagnoses or rules out malignancy.

Will there be visible scars?

Incisions are placed in discreet areas, such as inside the eyelid, to minimize visible scarring.