A small bump on your eyelid can be alarming. In many cases, the issue is harmless. However, it should not be ignored. An evaluation by a medical professional is necessary. This can rule out any concerning health issues. This is because harmless bumps can look very similar to cancerous growths. Early intervention is critical to ensure your long-term eye health. Eyelid cancer vs. stye: How to tell the difference? Consider the following information if you have a growth in your eye.
Eyelid Cancer vs. Stye: How to Tell the Difference?
Knowing what to look for is important when it comes to any symptoms that impact your eyes. The eyelids are among the most common sites for skin cancer. This is because the skin is much thinner than the rest of the face. The eyes are also often exposed to UV rays without adequate protection. Learning to recognize signs of eyelid cancer can protect your vision and overall health.
What is Eyelid Cancer?
Eyelid cancer is a type of skin cancer that develops on or around the eyelid. The skin around the eyes is extremely thin. Because it is frequently exposed to UV rays, it is vulnerable to skin cancer. The most common type of eyelid skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. There are several other types, but they are less common. No matter what type of eyelid skin cancer, a prompt evaluation from an eyelid surgeon is necessary. There are several warning signs to look out for that indicate you need to schedule an appointment right away.
Warning Signs of Eyelid Skin Cancer
- A painless lump that does not go away after several weeks
- A sore that bleeds, crusts over, or does not fully heal
- Loss of eyelashes
- Thickened eyelid skin
- A pearly or waxy bump with tiny, visible blood vessels
- Changes in the shape or position of the eyelid
- Persistent redness or irritation that does not get better with at-home treatments
What is a Stye?
A style is one of the most common eyelid issues. It occurs when the oil gland or hair follicle near the edge of the eyelid gets infected. This is often caused by harmful bacteria that enter the eye. In some cases, at-home treatment can address the issue. However, it is important to get the issue evaluated by a professional. Sometimes additional treatment is necessary. This is especially true if you get recurring styes.
Common Symptoms of a Stye
- Styes develop quickly, often within one to two days
- Redness and warmth
- Painful
- Eye watering or irritation
- Sometimes there may be a small white or yellow tip, similar to a pimple
- Often resolves within one to two weeks with at-home treatments
When to Contact an Eyelid Surgeon
Most styes are one-time issues that are easy to manage at home. They can often clear up without the need for medical intervention. However, there are instances when you should contact an eyelid surgeon for an evaluation. Professional evaluation is necessary in the following cases.
- An eyelid bump that has not resolved after two weeks
- The lump or bump is growing or changing in shape
- You are losing eyelashes near the growth
- The eyelid droops or becomes distorted
- An eyelid sore that bleeds or repeatedly crusts over
- History of skin cancer accompanied by any of the symptoms associated with a stye or eyelid skin cancer
An eyelid surgeon specializes in the delicate structures around the eye. They can evaluate your eyelids and determine the issue. They can create a customized treatment plan if you have a stye or if eyelid skin cancer is suspected. If eyelid cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Eyelid cancers have a very high treatment success rate.
Common Eyelid Skin Cancer Risk Factors
Certain people are more likely to develop skin cancer. If you are at an increased risk, focus on prevention. Early intervention is key. This is why it is important not to wait if you notice any changes around your eyes. Talk with an eyelid surgeon about preventative measures if any of the following risk factors apply to you.
- A history of significant sun exposure, including sunburns
- Fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- A history of radiation exposure to the face
Leading Eyelid Surgeon
Eyelid cancer can impact your vision and overall health if left untreated. If you are concerned about your eye health, contact the team at Jeffrey Joseph Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your appointment!