A chalazion is a tiny, harmless bump that forms on the eyelid as a result of an oil gland blockage. Even though these lumps are typically painless and may go away on their own, recurring chalazia might need to be treated by a doctor.
Continue reading for a thorough overview of chalazion removal, including when it is required, the techniques used, & what to anticipate during the process.
When is Chalazion Removal Necessary?
If self-care methods like using a warm compress or taking medication do not effectively resolve the oil blockage, an eye doctor or ophthalmologist might suggest surgically removing the cyst. In the end, the doctor will focus on your comfort and vision while considering your treatment alternatives. While many chalazia resolve on their own with warm compresses and good eyelid hygiene, some may require medical intervention.
You should consider removal if:
- The chalazion persists for more than a few weeks despite home remedies.
- It continues to grow or becomes cosmetically concerning.
- It interferes with vision or causes discomfort.
- Signs of infection, such as redness, pain, or pus, appear.
How can a Chalazion be treated?
Chalazion can be managed using a combination of the following approaches:
1. Warm Compress
Apply warm compresses and massage the area twice daily. Use a hot washcloth to soak the eyelids for 10 minutes, or wrap a freshly boiled egg or new potato in a damp washcloth (as it retains heat for an extended period). Take care to avoid burning your skin.
2. Steroid Injections
In cases where inflammation is significant, your doctor may recommend a steroid injection to reduce swelling and help the chalazion shrink. Steroid injections can work well if the Chalazion is fresh.
Steroid injections for chalazia are typically performed in an outpatient clinic and take only a few minutes. The ophthalmologist will clean the area around the eyelid to prevent infection. A topical anaesthetic (numbing cream or drops) is applied to the eyelid to ensure minimal discomfort during the injection. Using a fine needle, the doctor injects the steroid directly into the chalazion or just underneath it.
The volume injected is carefully calculated to avoid spreading the steroid to nearby tissues. In some cases, the doctor may apply gentle pressure to distribute the medicine evenly within the lump. After the injection, patients are monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate reactions. An antibiotic ointment may be applied to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Surgical Removal of Chalazion
When conservative treatments, such as warm compresses and medications, fail to provide relief after several months, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Chalazion treatment aims to eliminate the bump on the eyelid, ease discomfort, and prevent further complications. Typically, this procedure and recovery are swift and effective, restoring the eyelid’s normal appearance and function.
Chalazion treatment works to remove lumps and styes from the eyelid through either drainage or excision. To make sure there are no visible scars, a tiny incision is made on the inside of the eyelid during the process. The stye is then carefully drained or excised, and the area is cleaned to help prevent future occurrences. This procedure is normally carried out under local anaesthesia as an outpatient service, allowing you to return home within 30 minutes.
Bonus Tip: Learn about the healing process, read our detailed blog on Chalazion Healing Stages.
Final Thoughts
Chalazion removal is a straightforward & effective procedure for those whose condition doesn’t resolve with conservative treatment. Whether through nonsurgical methods or surgical intervention, relief is within reach. If you’re dealing with a persistent chalazion, consult a qualified ophthalmologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
You can keep your eyes healthy and pain-free by taking care of the problem as soon as it arises and practicing proper eye care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chalazion removal painful?
During chalazion removal, a small cut is made, and the contents of the cyst are gently scraped out. You won’t feel pain but might notice some pressure. After the procedure, an eye pad will be placed over your eye, which you should keep on until the next morning.
What is the recovery time following Chalazion Treatment?
Most people take about 1-2 days to recover from chalazion treatment. While it’s best to avoid strenuous activities during this time, you can return to your normal routine the following day. The treated area tends to heal quickly, and any slight discomfort usually goes away within a few days.
Can a chalazion be removed without surgery?
A chalazion is a common cyst on the eyelid that often goes away on its own with simple home treatments, like applying warm compresses and keeping eyes clean. However, in some situations, surgery might be recommended to remove it.
What lifestyle changes can help in the prevention of chalazia or styes?
To help prevent chalazion or styes, it’s important to keep good eye hygiene, be careful with makeup and contact lenses, avoid rubbing your eyes, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, schedule regular eye check-ups, and seek quick treatment if there are problems.
What happens if a chalazion is left untreated?
Typically, a chalazion will go away on its own over time, but this can take several months. If left untreated, it might lead to infections and discomfort and affect your appearance.
Can chalazion be cancerous?
Recurrent chalazia might be linked to poor eyelid hygiene, but if they show any unusual changes, it’s important to check for more serious issues. This is especially true for older people, as repeated chalazia may need to be evaluated for possible cancerous changes.
