Thomas Eye Group
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Eyelid Cancer
Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the skin, but usually on sun-exposed areas. The face is a common area to be involved. Eyelid skin cancer occurs less frequently in the general population, but Dr. Neufeld sees a lot of patients who have eyelid cancer.
Too much exposure to sunlight is the single most common cause and fair-skinned people develop skin cancers more frequently than dark-skinned people. Skin cancers could also be hereditary. Skin cancers usually appear as painless bumps or nodules, and occasionally eyelashes are distorted or missing. There may be ulcerations of the area, bleeding, crusting, and distortion of the skin. Oftentimes, the cancer can masquerade and appear very benign. This often leads to undue delay at diagnosis and treatment. As a result, it is prudent to have any suspicious areas biopsied to determine the presence of skin cancer.
How Is Eyelid Cancer Treated?
Treatment of skin cancer on or near the eyelids involves the complete removal of the cancer. Following the removal of the cancer, the eyelid will need to be reconstructed. This is imperative not only for the area to look normal, but to function normally as well. The area surrounding the eyelids is an area with complicated structures that lie beneath the skin surface such as tear ducts, muscles, tendons and support structures for the eyelids. The goal of surgical reconstruction is to preserve the function of the eyelid, to protect the eye and to obtain the best cosmetic appearance possible.
Sometimes the cancer can extend under the skin surface, and its true borders can be much larger than they appear. It is very important to remove all of the cancerous tissue to decrease the likelihood of a recurrence or spread of the cancer. There is a surgical technique called Mohs surgery that is often used to eradicate skin cancers. Dr. Neufeld works very closely with the Mohs surgeon to ensure the cancer is completely removed and the area is reconstructed properly. Early detection of skin cancer is an important factor in its treatment. Be sure to discuss any eyelid lesions, no matter how “normal” they may seem with your doctor.
If you would like to consult with our eye care specialist about eyelid cancer, please call us for an appointment.
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