Eyelid Growths and Cancer in Napa, CA

Eyelid growths and cancers are abnormal conditions that occur in or on the eyelid. These concerns may range from styes or benign cysts to basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, or forms of eyelid cancer. If you notice a growth in or around your eye, it is important to make an appointment at our Napa, CA ophthalmology office as soon as possible. Our board-certified ophthalmologists can examine the growth and surrounding tissues to determine if there is any reason for concern. If necessary, we may remove the growth and reconstruct the eyelid. Should you notice any changes to the skin around your eye, please call Eye Specialists of Napa Valley today to schedule a consultation.

In most cases, individuals with eye cancer do not experience any symptoms unless the growth is in a location where it can affect how your eye works. It is important to keep in mind that experiencing symptoms does not necessarily mean it is cancer. There are several conditions that cause similar symptoms, like a stye on the upper eyelid, which can often be relieved with quick at-home stye treatments. Some vision symptoms patients may experience from an eye growth include:

• Partial or total vision loss
• Blurry vision
• Eye irritation that doesn't improve
• Growth on your eyelid or eyeball
• Dark spot on your iris
• Floaters or squiggly lines

Whether you are seeking stye relief or are concerned about a growth on your eye, you can trust our team to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and available treatment options.

There are certain risk factors that can put an individual at a higher risk of developing abnormal eyelid growths or cancer. It is important to note that some people with several risk factors may never develop cancer, while people who may not be at risk do. Knowing and understanding your risk factors can help you stay informed about your wellness decisions. Some of the primary risk factors include:

• Gender:
• Fair skin
• Age
• Exposure to UV
• Individuals who easily get sunburned or have a history of fragile skin

There are certain factors that could heighten a person's risk of developing an eyelid growth or eyelid cancer. Some of these risk factors include:

• Bright light exposure (such as those who spend a lot of time outside or who use tanning beds)
• Fair skin
• Being a caucasion male
• Age (those over 50 may be more at risk)
• Previous skin cancer diagnosis
• A precancerious skin condition (such as actinic keratoses or Bowen's disease)

If you have a cyst or something else on your eye, we can help determine if the growth is cancerous or not. Our ophthalmologists can evaluate these growths by performing a physical exam. We may take pictures to track the development of the growth and perform a biopsy. During a biopsy, we will remove a small amount of the growth and have it examined. This can determine whether the tissue is cancerous.

Our eyelids have one of the thinnest layers of skin on our bodies, making them very sensitive and susceptible to harm. While there is no specific cause of eyelid growth or cancer, risk factors include excessive sun exposure, aging, smoking, and a history of skin cancer. A flat or raised lesion on the eye, an ulcer or stye that does not go away, eyelash loss, odd changes to the skin of the eyelid, and swelling and itching are common signs of eyelid cancer. However, anytime you notice a bump or growth on the eyelid, you should have it checked out to ensure it will not cause damage to the eye or surrounding skin.

Treatment at our Napa, CA office will vary, depending on the type of growth or cancer, but it will sometimes involve surgical removal. We work with dermatologists or pathologists in the event the growth is suspected to be cancerous to ensure proper removal and diagnosis. Recovery can vary depending on the severity of the procedure, so it is important to follow the instructions that you receive from our team. We will likely schedule a follow-up session at Eye Specialists of Napa Valley to check your healing progress and eye health. Regular eye exams will also be important to your continued health and wellness.

Do eyelid growths hurt? 
While it is possible that your eyelid tumor won't hurt, it may cause irritation like watery eyes, discharge from your eye, and more. Our eye doctors will make certain your eyelid bump is biopsied so the necessary treatment can be started if you do have eyelid cancer in Napa, CA.

What treatments are available for an eyelid tumor? 
Commonly, most patients undergo surgery. This can include Mohs surgery where the visible tumor is removed, cryosurgery that utilizes liquid nitrogen to freeze and kill cells, or reconstructive surgery. To find out which is ideal for you, contact our team.

How long does it take to recover from eyelid cancer in Napa, CA? 
Typically the recovery process takes up to two weeks or more before bruising and inflammation subsides. Your full recovery depends on which treatment was carried out. For detailed information, contact our eye doctors to set up a consultation.

If you have a growth on your eyelid, it is vital that you visit Eye Specialists of Napa Valley to have your eye(s) checked. These growths, while often harmless, could be an indication of eyelid cancer. If ignored, it could spread and cause further damage. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are equipped to diagnose and treat a variety of eyelid growths and cancer types. For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact our Napa, CA office today.