Repeated Sun exposure to the eyelid skin puts patients at risk for eyelid skin cancers. It is important to have an oculoplastic surgeon give a very thorough exam to the eyelids on a yearly basis. Eyelid skin cancer is best treated when caught early. The smaller the skin cancer when it is detected, the better result after it is removed.

Symptoms of skin cancers that develop on the eyelid include: A bump that is smooth, shiny, pearly or waxy, or firm and red. A sore or lump that bleeds or develops a crust or a scab.

Most eyelid skin cancers are removed by a specialized dermatologist called a Mohs surgeon. Given the complex anatomy of the eyelid, most Mohs surgeons will work with an oculoplastic surgeon to do the repair after the cancer has been removed. A variety of defects of the upper and lower eyelids can be encountered after Mohs surgery. The goals of eyelid reconstruction are to provide structural and functional restoration with an excellent aesthetic result. A thorough knowledge of the intricate anatomy of the eyelids combined with familiarity of the wide variety of reconstructive options is required to achieve these goals.