While our blog usually focuses on nerdy living, we occasionally share personal updates about our lives. This post is one of those times. I wanted to share my journey with squamous cell carcinoma on the eyelid to keep our readers informed and possibly help someone else going through a similar experience. I am not a medical professional, and this content is not intended as medical advice. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Learning I had squamous cell carcinoma on the eyelid was not something I ever expected. Like, the eyelid? Putting sun block there is like asking for all day pain, and all of my glasses have UV protection.
It’s a lot to process, and I haven’t even met with my surgeon yet.
In this post, I’ll share how I discovered the issue, what I’ve learned about skin cancer on the eyelid, and my next steps as I prepare for treatment. If you’re facing something similar, I hope my story helps you feel less alone and more informed.
From Skin Tag to Cancer Diagnosis: How It Started
It all began with a small bump on my upper eyelid that I thought was just a skin tag. For the last two, I barely noticed it—until it started interfering with my peripheral vision in the spring. I could feel it with every blink, and it became more of an annoyance than anything else.
In 2024, my dermatologist didn’t think it was harmful and gave me the choice of removing it or not. I chose not to because it wasn’t painful. To him, it wasn’t presenting as cancer. That’s the scary part.
I called the bump “Bertie” and didn’t think much of it.
Then around the holidays, I could start to see it in my peripheral. After a few failed attempts to find an ophthalmologist (because of its location) willing to remove it, I turned to my trusted dermatologist.
He performed the removal procedure and assured me, “I’ll only call if there’s a problem.”
That call came after business hours.
The Call That Changed Everything
When my dermatologist called at 7:15 p.m., I knew it wasn’t good news. I didn’t want to put the call on speaker—my daughter didn’t need to hear this at the same time as me.
He explained that the biopsy results showed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer. I tried to stay calm during the conversation, but hearing the word “cancer” made it difficult to focus.
After the biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma on the eyelid, my dermatologist explained the next steps and referred me to a highly recommended MOHS surgeon.
What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma on the Eyelid?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer, affecting more than 1.8 million people annually in the United States. It occurs when the DNA in squamous cells—flat cells in the outermost layer of skin—becomes damaged, often due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
What Does SCC Look Like?
SCC frequently develops on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, lips, and hands. It can appear as:
- Scaly, red patches.
- Open sores that don’t heal and may bleed or crust.
- Raised growths with a central depression.
- Wart-like growths that crust over or bleed.
Since SCC can manifest differently in each person, it’s essential to monitor your skin for any changes. If you notice anything unusual, such as a sore that fails to heal or a new growth, consult a dermatologist.
Mine didn’t present as any of these. Now, if I don’t like it, get rid of it.
Is SCC Dangerous?
While most cases of squamous cell carcinoma can be treated effectively when caught early, untreated SCCs can be dangerous. They can grow deeper into the skin, damage surrounding tissue, and, in rare cases, spread to other parts of the body, becoming life-threatening.
How Common is SCC?
- Around 205 cases of SCC are diagnosed every hour in the U.S.
- SCC incidence has increased by up to 200% over the past three decades, partly due to increased sun exposure and indoor tanning.
Risk Factors for SCC
Several factors can increase your risk of developing SCC, including:
- Age 50 and Older: The longer skin is exposed to cumulative UV damage, the higher the likelihood of SCC.
- Cumulative UV Exposure: About 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers, including SCC, are linked to UV radiation.
- Indoor Tanning: People who use tanning beds have a 67% higher risk of developing SCC.
- Light Skin: Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and eyes are at a greater risk.
- Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV or medications that suppress the immune system (e.g., for organ transplant patients) heighten risk.
I am 51, and I grew up in South Louisiana, so those are the two risk factors that contributed to this. This wasn’t a result of one tanning session, because I never really tan. I definitely haven’t done indoor tanning. I’m not light-skinned, and while I have a type of RA, my health plan for that doesn’t include immunosuppressing drugs.
This was a cumulative exposure, especially growing up in the 1970s and 1980s, when not many of us wore sunscreen.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma on the Eyelid
When squamous cell carcinoma occurs on the eyelid, it can be particularly challenging due to the delicate nature of the area and its critical role in protecting the eye. SCC on the eyelid often appears as a persistent lump, scaly patch, or sore that doesn’t heal. In my case, it was an outward growth that typically appeared as a skin tag.
It may cause swelling, redness, or changes in the eyelid’s appearance, such as thickening or discoloration. While SCC of the eyelid is less common than other locations, it requires prompt attention and specialized treatment to prevent it from spreading to nearby structures, including the tear ducts or orbital tissue.
Early detection is key, as treatments like MOHS surgery can remove the tumor while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible to maintain the eyelid’s function and appearance.
What Happens Next? Preparing for Surgery
My dermatologist referred me to a surgeon specializing in MOHS surgery for eyelid cancer.
MOHS surgery is one of the most effective treatments for skin cancer on the eyelid. It’s a precise procedure where cancerous tissue is removed layer by layer. Each layer is examined under a microscope to ensure all cancer cells are removed while sparing healthy tissue.
You don’t walk out of the procedure until you are cancer-free in that area.
Why MOHS Surgery is Ideal for Eyelid Cancer:
- High Success Rate: MOHS surgery is known for its effectiveness in removing cancer completely.
- Minimal Scarring: This is especially important for sensitive, visible areas like the eyelid.
- Preserves Healthy Tissue: Ensures functionality and appearance are maintained as much as possible.
After MOHS, I’ll will need reconstructive surgery to restore the eyelid’s structure and function. These procedures are often done on the same day, but I’ll learn more specifics during my consultation.
In almost all cases the person doing MOHS also does the reconstruction. However, because the cancer is on my eyelid, and the importance of the eyelid, I have to go to a specialist in oculoplastic surgery. These are ophthalmologists with additional training in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the eye and face. They specialize in repairing eyelids, tear ducts, and other structures around the eye.
So I’ll probably look younger on one half of the face than on the other!!!
How I’m Coping with the Diagnosis
Hearing the word “cancer” is overwhelming. It’s easy to let your mind spiral into worst-case scenarios, but here’s what’s helping me stay grounded:
- Trusting My Medical Team: My dermatologist has been with me since 2010, and I trust his expertise. His referral to a top surgeon gives me confidence in my care plan.
- Educating Myself: Learning about squamous cell carcinoma and MOHS surgery helps me feel more prepared for what’s ahead.
- Leaning on Support: Talking with friends and family about my diagnosis has been comforting, as many have had people they know have had it for basal cell and squamous.
- Wife and Kid: They both help me from spiraling. They don’t tell me I’m crazy when my mind goes to worst-case scenario, but they remind me that worst-case is rare. They also remind me I’m being proactive.
Questions I Plan to Ask My Surgeon
As I prepare for my consultation, I’ve started compiling a list of questions to ask my surgeon:
- What can I expect during MOHS surgery?
- How long will the procedure take?
- Will reconstructive surgery happen the same day?
- What’s the recovery process like?
- Are there any risks or complications I should be aware of?
Helpful Resources for Squamous Cell Carcinoma and MOHS Surgery
If you’re looking for more information, here are the sites I used as sources for the information in this post.
- Skin Cancer Foundation: Detailed information on SCC and MOHS surgery as well tons of product recommendations to protect yourself.
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) on Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Explaining Eyelid Reconstruction Following Skin Cancer Removal
What’s Next: Taking Steps to Protect My Health
Now that I’ve received my diagnosis and know what’s ahead, I’m focusing on coordinating care and making lifestyle changes to protect my skin moving forward. Here’s what I’m doing next:
1. Coordinating with Medical Professionals
- I’ll be working closely with both a MOHS surgeon and a reconstructive plastic surgeon to ensure the best outcome.
- My first step is to schedule consultations with both specialists to discuss the timeline, procedure details, and recovery process. I want to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the surgery and reconstruction plan.
- I’m also preparing a list of questions to ask during these appointments, like:
- What should I expect on the day of surgery?
- What is the recovery process like for eyelid reconstruction? How much work will I miss?
- Are there any precautions I need to take before or after the procedure?
2. Protecting My Skin Moving Forward
Since receiving the call, I’ve started making some big changes to protect my skin from further damage. Even though the damage that led to this was cumulative, I don’t want to add to it. Here’s what I’m doing:
- Daily Sunscreen Application:
- I’ve committed to applying sunscreen every single day, even if I don’t plan to go outside. The idea that sun damage is cumulative has been a huge wake-up call for me.
- I’m using a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. I’m using mineral sunscreen (with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) because it provides a physical barrier to block both the harmful rays. It does leave a white cast, but I don’t care. There are other options if this is an issue for you. Again, I refer you to Skin Cancer Foundation for recommendations.
- UPF Clothing and Accessories:
- I’ve started researching clothing and hats with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings. Luckily, the fishing and game clothing industry, as well as manufacturers of golf apparel, have been leaders in this field, which means it’s easy to find in my area.
- SkinCancer.org has been a lifesaver in helping me find reputable brands that offer stylish and effective sun-protective clothing.
- I’ve already picked out a wide-brim hat that will help shield my face, especially during recovery. It even has a neck flap to protect my nape.
- Avoiding Peak Sun Hours:
- I’m planning to limit my time outdoors during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) whenever possible. I’ve been doing this for years, but I do also want to monitor how much time my little one spends outside during those hours and make sure she is protected at all times.
3. Changing My Mindset About Sun Protection
This diagnosis has completely shifted how I view sun exposure. I used to think sunscreen was something you only needed for beach days, but now I know better. Sun protection has become a daily habit for me, and it’s something I’ll continue for the rest of my life.
Closing Note
While this diagnosis was unexpected and overwhelming, I’m grateful for the opportunity to take steps to protect my health and prevent further damage. If you’re reading this and haven’t been diligent about sun protection, let my experience be a reminder: it’s never too late to start caring for your skin.
If you’ve faced a similar diagnosis or have questions about my experience, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
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