Your eyelids are extremely susceptible to skin cancer from sun exposure. The most common eyelid cancer is called basal cell carcinoma. If left untreated, these tumors can grow and destroy part or all of an eyelid. If neglected long enough, the tumor can even grow into the eye socket.
No surgical plan is established until the diagnosis is confirmed with a surgical biopsy. If the tumor turns out to be cancerous, an additional consultation will be arranged with Dr. Scott to discuss the different eyelid cancer surgical options.
Mohs surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery involves removing a visible tumor and analyzing small fragments from around the tumor edge for evidence of cancer. Mohs removal of a cancerous eyelid tumor is performed by a dermatologist who specializes in this surgical technique. Once the diagnosis of cancer is confirmed, Dr. Scott will frequently combine efforts with a Mohs surgeon. In this scenario, the cancer removal is performed by the Mohs surgeon in the morning, followed with Dr. Scott reconstructing the resultant eyelid defect the same day at Fair Oaks Hospital on an outpatient basis.
Eyelid reconstruction surgery
Dr. Scott performs reconstructive eyelid surgery to help restore eyelid function and aesthetics. The patient may need multiple surgeries spread out over a specified time period to obtain the best final result from this eyelid plastic surgery.
Keep in mind that results vary according to the individual patient and the chosen procedure. Dr. Scott will explain all surgical procedures as any procedure, no matter how minor or major, has risks.
For more information regarding eyelid cancer surgery and eyelid reconstruction surgery, please call us at 703-620-4300 or use our convenient Request an Appointment form. We welcome patients from Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Fairfax, McLean and nearby locations.
