Dermolipoma surgery, or, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"

The surgery of dermolipoma is fraught with dangers. It too often is followed by damage to the lacrimal secretory system, intractable diplopia, blepharoptosis, and perhaps other undesirable complications. Since these tumors are benign, the smallest amount of surgery that debulks the tumor and leads to a cosmetically acceptable result is the best surgery for the patient's satisfaction and for the surgeon's peace of mind. By being aware of these factors, the surgeon can avoid most complications. Some methods of preventing and relieving the symptoms of potential complications of dermolipoma surgery are briefly considered.