Cyst Removal

Chalazion Cyst

What is a chalazion?
A chalazion is a hard, usually painless bump on the eyelid that results from chronic inflammation of the meibomian glands of the eyelids. It can become infected and appear red, swollen, and tender at first. It usually goes away by itself or with minimal treatment, but some become hard, less inflamed bumps.

Are chalazia associated with skin disease?
Yes, including seborrheic dermatitis, chronic blepharitis, and rosacea. These skin problems can cause chronic inflammation of the eyelid tissues, leading to blockage of the meibomian glands. People who have one of these skin problems usually develop multiple cysts on their eyelids over many years.

How are chalazia treated?
Acute chalazia are treated by placing a warm cloth over the eyelid for ten minutes at a time, four times a day. Steroid medicine can be injected into the chalazia, but effects may include skin thinning, bruising, or blood clots. Antibiotic eyedrops or ointment can only be used for early, inflamed chalazion. Chronic chalazia will need surgical treatment.

What happens during the surgical treatment?
The eye is numbed, and a plastic shield is placed over the eyeball for protection. The eyelid must be injected with a local anesthetic. Then, the chalazion is opened with a tiny incision from either the inside or the outside of the eyelid, removing the contents of the chalazion. The walls are then scraped for it to be closed.

What complications can occur after the procedure?
It is very uncommon for the eye to be damaged or infected during the procedure. Chalazia that are too close to the tear duct may damage the drainage system. A chalazion can come back after removal, or a new chalazion can develop next to where the old one was removed. Although rare, a cancerous growth may be discovered next to a chalazia.