Periocular Malignancies and Postoperative Eyelid Reconstruction

Among the periocular malignancies, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common in the west. In contrast, sebaceous and Merkel cell carcinomas are the most aggressive. Premalignant tumors include actinic keratosis, Bowen’s disease, and keratoacanthoma. Eyelid malignancies should be treated differently than other cutaneous tumors of the same cell type because of the particular anatomic concerns of the periocular area and the effect of surgical excision and reconstruction on ocular protection and visual function. The most common treatment is surgical excision, and the following reconstruction of eyelid defects is a critical step. This is because the deformity caused by the disease or surgery can significantly affect the patient’s appearance. It can affect the patient’s perception of themselves and others, as well as the patient’s psychological and social personality. Several surgical treatment options for eyelid reconstruction include various flaps, grafts, and combinations. The objectives of eyelid reconstruction after carcinoma removal have been to protect the cornea, restore the integrity of the lid lamellae, restore normal lid movement, and produce the desired aesthetic outcome.1 The present article provides an overview of the classification of periocular malignancies and discusses the indications, strengths, and weaknesses of the surgical procedures that are currently accessible.