Eyelid cancer, though rare, is a type of cancer that can affect a person’s eyelids. This can cause a person to lose a part of their eyelid. However this can be fixed with eyelid reconstruction surgery. Most of the surgeries for the eyelid are basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas. Before reconstruction can be performed, the eyelid cancer must be treated with Mohs surgery. Reconstruction can be performed one to two days after the surgery is completed.
BASAL CELL CARCINOMA ON THE EYELIDS
Over-exposed areas of the skin can sometimes develop a type of cancer called Basal Cell Carcinoma. It is a very common type of cancer and is the least risky. It can easily be treated, provided that you catch it at an early stage.
This cancer doesn’t spread on your skin, however, it could go deep into the skin tissue and eventually to the bone, thus it’s important to bring it to your doctor’s attention should you notice any symptoms. It starts of with the thickening of the skin on your eyelids, infection of the eyelids etc. These symptoms should never be ignored as it can lead to more serious issues.
THE RISK FACTORS
Exposure to sun is the most common reason for people developing skin cancer in the eyelids. The harmful UVA and UVB rays can cause cancer of the skin in the eyelid area due to it being very sensitive. People with lighter skin tones are the most vulnerable to developing eyelid cancer. Radiation and other irritants are also a common factor relating to cancer in the eyelids. People who have a weak immune system are also more susceptible.
Repairing the structure of the eye is a very intricate procedure and it can help save the anatomy of the eye which is very sensitive. Mild and small eye defects can also be fixed with advanced reconstruction and since Mohs surgery removes cancer in stages, the eyelid does not suffer any loss of skin in a large area.
THE MOH’S RECONSTRUCTION PROCEDURE
Moh’s reconstruction is a procedure in which cancer is removed layer by layer from the affected tissue. The removed tissues are then studied under the microscope to see if all layers of cancerous skin have been removed. It has a very high success rate of about 99%. Patients who undergo the procedure can also retain much of their skin tissue.
SAFETY MEASURES YOU SHOULD TAKE
It advisable to avoid excessive exposure to the sun to prevent the cancer from relapsing. Using sunglasses and a high quality sunscreen is highly recommended. Wearing clothes with long sleeves and using a hat for sun protection can help keep damage caused by the sun to a minimum. It is also important that you stay vigilant and keep a check on your skin to detect any further growth on your body. Make sure to choose a surgeon who is an experienced professional and has a history of performing the Mohs technique and reconstruction to avoid any risk of further complications.
CONTACT OUR OFFICE
Dr. Jeffrey Joseph, a board-certified ophthalmic reconstructive plastic surgeon, has the skills and experience necessary to help you during this tough time. With his help, you can feel safe and secure knowing that your needs will be carefully catered to in a comfortable environment. Contact our office to schedule an appointment today.