Skin Cancer and Eyelid Reconstruction

Did you know that skin cancer can develop around your eyes? Skin cancer development is common for South Florida residents, given the intense sun exposure. The most common type of eyelid skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma less frequently encountered.

For suspicious appearing growths, a biopsy is first needed to make a diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, the goal is to fully remove the skin cancer and reconstruct the eyelid defect. Sometimes our oculoplastic specialists will enlist the help of a dermatologist to remove the skin cancer with a specific technique called Mohs surgery. This procedure is a popular technique for removing skin cancer utilizing cutting-edge technology in order to preserve your surrounding normal tissue while eliminating the cancerous tissue. After the Mohs surgeon removes the skin cancer, our oculoplastics specialists will be able to repair the resultant skin defect.

The eyelid is a delicate structure composed of 8 layers, and great skill is needed in order to recreate the eyelid after skin cancer is excised. Sometimes tissue must be taken from other areas of the face or body (grafts), or tissue can be recruited from the surrounding area (flaps). Reconstruction aims to restore an eyelid that functions properly while also looking great. Thorough knowledge of the complex periorbital anatomy and function is essential.

Before and after images of Fort Lauderdale Eye Institute’s patients:

Our very own Dr. Gil Epstein and Dr. Aliza Epstein are experts in eyelid reconstruction and are ready to assist you in treating your eyelid skin cancer.