Eyelid cancer may account for just 5–10% of all skin cancers, but the eyelid’s ultra-thin, UV-exposed skin makes it particularly vulnerable. Even a tiny bump or persistent redness can signal trouble. This guide will cover what causes eyelid cancer, how to spot early warning signs, diagnostic steps, treatment options, and proven ways to protect your eyelids from harmful rays.
What Is Eyelid Cancer?
Eyelid cancer arises when abnormal cells grow in the skin or glands of the eyelid. Though most common types include:
- Basal cell carcinoma: The rarest eyelid cancer but still the leading skin-cancer type overall.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Often appears as a scaly patch or a persistent sore.
- Melanoma: An aggressive form that can develop from a dark mole on the eyelid.
Accounting for up to one in ten skin cancers, eyelid cancer demands vigilance, even if it starts as what seems like a harmless bump.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Ultraviolet (UV) exposure: Chronic sun damage on the thin eyelid skin is the chief culprit.
- Fair skin & light eyes: Less natural melanin means less protection against UV rays.
- History of sunburns or tanning-bed use in the eyelid area.
- Age & genetics: Risk rises after 60 and with a family history of skin cancer.
Protective measures—like wide-brimmed hats and SPF eyelid creams—are your best defense.
Signs & Symptoms of Eyelid Cancer
Watch closely for these red flags on your eyelids:
- A lump or bump that doesn’t resolve (often mistaken for a stye)
- Persistent redness or eyelid inflammation
- Irregular lesions—especially ones that scab, bleed, or crust
- Sudden loss of eyelashes in a localized area
- Vision changes if the lesion presses on your eye
If any sign lingers beyond two weeks, schedule a skin evaluation—early detection of eyelid cancer vastly improves outcomes.
How Eyelid Cancer Is Diagnosed
- Comprehensive exam: An oculoplastic or dermatologic specialist inspects your eyelids and surrounding skin.
- Imaging, if needed: High-resolution photographs or confocal microscopy help map lesion borders.
- Biopsy:
- Shave biopsy for superficial lesions
- Excisional biopsy for deeper or suspicious growths
Treatment Options
- Mohs micrographic surgery: Tissue-sparing technique with the highest cure rates for basal and squamous types.
- Standard excision: Surgical removal with margin assessment, often paired with reconstructive eyelid repair.
- Radiation therapy: An alternative for patients who can’t undergo surgery.
- Reconstructive procedures: Oculoplastic surgeons restore both function and appearance.
Clinical studies in JAMA Ophthalmology report Mohs success rates above 95% for eyelid tumors.
Prevention & Protection
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat outdoors.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to your eyelid skin daily.
- Perform regular self-checks for new bumps, lesions, or lash loss.
- Avoid tanning beds and excessive midday sun exposure.
Early vigilance is the best prevention—ask your dermatologist for personalized sun-safe strategies.
Protect Your Vision
This type of cancer may be rare, but its delicate location demands prompt action. You safeguard your vision and appearance by recognizing early warning signs and seeking expert care.
Schedule your comprehensive eyelid skin exam at Barnet Dulaney Perkins today to catch eyelid cancer before it spreads.