Cancer can grow on any part of the body, including the eyelids. When cells start to grow at an unpredictable rate around your eyes, they may form a tumor. It is important to find out whether or not that tumor is cancerous. If it is, it is likely that this eyelid cancer is a form of skin cancer that should be treated right away. Patients may qualify for eyelid surgery in Los Angeles depending on the type, location, and severity of cancer. Below, our eyelid surgeon will talk about what causes eyelid cancer and what types of treatments you can hope to get with your treatment.

What are common risk factors for skin cancer of the eyelid.

Before diagnosing the type of cancer that may be prevalent on your eyelid, your doctor may want to help you understand what causes eyelid cancer in the first place. While there are a variety of external factors that could exacerbate the growth of this kind of cancer, the most common is prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This can come from things like the sun or a tanning bed. Eyelid cancer occurs when the skin is damaged by radiation. This can cause the cells to grow out of control, forming a tumor on top of your skin. People who spend less time in the sun or who have fairer skin are at a bigger risk of developing eyelid cancer (or other common skin cancers) this way.

How can I prevent Eyelid Cancer

Most people who have these risk factors never develop eyelid cancer. But, some people who have none of these factors can still get this type of skin cancer. We recommend the following products to help prevent eyelid cancer:

• Hats: Wear a hat with at least a 3-inch brim to block up to half of UVB rays from your eyes and eyelids. Some hats are made from sun-protective materials and are rated with an SPF value similar to sunscreen.
• Sunglasses: Choose those with lenses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. The bigger the sunglasses, the more skin they can protect. Look for wraparound types with UV-protective sides.
• Sunscreens and moisturizers: Some of these products are non-irritating because they are made especially for the eye area. Look for SPF 30 or higher for daily use.

Biggest Symptoms of Eyelid Cancer

By keeping an eye on some obvious signs of cancer, you can monitor whether or not your skin growth is something to be concerned about. As soon as you notice something, you should get in touch with your specialized cancer surgeon. Some of the early symptoms of eyelid cancer can include:

• Constant eye infections
• Changing appearance of the skin on your eyelid
• A growth on the eyelid that is getting bigger
• The growth becoming red, black, or brown
• Ulcers and broken skin that won’t heal
• Sudden loss of eyelashes

It is also possible to have eyelid cancer without any visible symptoms. Some patients are shocked to find out about their cancer diagnosis with no prior issues or conditions surrounding the eye. Others may have assertive symptoms while the cancer inside the tumor is not that aggressive.

Eye Cancer Treatment Options

Everyone diagnosed with eye cancer has a very different experience when it comes to getting treatment. This is because treatment options can vary widely depending on the position and advanced stage of cancer. Obviously, the sooner it can be diagnosed, the milder your treatment requirements will be. Many treatments involve removing the tumor and a little bit of healthy tissue around it to ensure that it has no chance of growing back. If the cancer has spread further, your doctor may also prescribe different topical ointments and prescription medications to keep the cancer at bay.

Is it time to Visit Your Eye Surgeon

If you are worried that you may carry some of the symptoms and signs of eyelid cancer, get in touch with experts at SightMD today. The best way to get ahead of your cancer and stop it from spreading is to seek the best treatment for eyelid skin cancer. It is never too early to get your skin examined for possible tumors. Call us today to schedule your consultation and get your eye health back on the right track.