Australian model Tilly Smith has revealed her diagnosis with a rare form of eye cancer, using the experience to caution her followers about the importance of regular skin cancer checks that include the eyes.
Smith, 32, shared on Instagram that she was diagnosed with ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) on Friday. The condition was discovered after she experienced increased sensitivity to light and noticed a growth on her sclera, which she initially mistook for a pterygium.
"If you weren't aware, because I wasn't, you can get skin cancer or melanoma on your eyeball," Smith told her followers. "I get my skin checked often for skin cancers, but I've never ever checked my eyeballs."
She explained that after returning from a trip to the Maldives, her eyes became unusually sensitive to light. Upon examination by a specialist, the growth was identified as OSSN.
Smith underwent surgery on Wednesday to have the cancer removed. She reported that the procedure went smoothly and she is already healing, noting that eyes tend to recover quickly. "I'll be back to life in no time," she stated.
The diagnosis has prompted Smith to become more vigilant about sun protection, emphasizing the need to protect her eyes as well as her skin. "I've always been very cautious and vigilant about my checks. Now that I'm aware of ocular cancer, it will be first on my mind, as I never thought to check before," she said.
Friends and fans expressed their support in the comments section of her announcement, wishing her well following the surgery.