Chalazion

A chalazion is a bump on the eyelid that occurs when an oil gland becomes blocked by debris or excess oils. At first, the bump will appear red and swollen and may be tender to the touch. The pain will disappear, and the chalazion may resolve or continue to grow into a firm lump. In most cases, the lump will disappear in a few days but can take a month to completely resolve.

What Are Chalazia?

A Chalazion is the most common inflammatory lesion on the eyelids. These growths, pluralized as chalazia, typically appear due to blocked meibomian or oil glands. A chalazion can form on either the upper or lower eyelid and may disappear without treatment. These are not transmittable. These growths are sometimes confused with an internal or external stye. However, styes develop due to infection and are accompanied by pain. After a stye heals, a chalazion may develop.

How Are They Treated?

These bumps usually will clear up on their own within a couple of weeks and may take up to a month to completely resolve. However, if they persist, a conservative medical treatment would include warm, moist compresses (5 minutes, 2x daily) to help the gland to open. Dr. Connor also recommends massaging the bump right after the warm compress to help the oil dissipate and absorb. Do not attempt to pop or squeeze the chalazion, as this can incite more inflammation.

A chalazion that fails to respond to warm compresses and massage may be managed by injecting it directly with a steroid. These injections prove to be a successful first-line treatment for patients who prefer a more efficient, less invasive method before considering an incision and drainage. Incision and drainage involve a minor, in-office surgical procedure in which an incision is made on the back of the eyelid, and the contents are then removed. Many factors affect the course of treatment and should be discussed with Dr. Michael Connor during your consultation.

female patient looking at ipad with Dr. Connor

How Does Chalazion Surgery Work?

Chalazion removal surgery can be performed as an in-office procedure at our Palm Beach Gardens office. Before the surgery, you’ll be given local anesthesia via a small injection to prevent pain and discomfort. Certain over-the-counter, prescription, and herbal medications may affect preparation for your surgery.

We encourage you to discuss your health history with Dr. Michael Connor before committing to chalazion removal. The incision is made on the back of the eyelid to avoid an external scar. The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes. For patients who are nervous or anxious, we offer Nitronox, a blend of nitrous and oxygen, to help them relax during their procedure.

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What Does This Surgery Treat?

A chalazion surgery will effectively remove the growth and allow us to take preventative measures to stop it from growing back. These surgical procedures are usually followed by a biopsy analysis in order to determine the cause of the chalazion. An eye drop medication will be prescribed to treat the underlying condition and help with healing.

Expectations During Surgery for Chalazia

During a chalazion surgery, the doctor will begin by providing you with a local anesthetic. A typical surgery lasts about 10 minutes, but the entire process (including preparation and anesthesia) may take around 45 minutes. During this procedure, a clamp will be used to keep your eye open. A small incision will be made on the inside of the eyelid, and the chalazion will be excised completely. Afterward, a pressure patch is applied that can be removed the next morning. We recommend bringing another driver with you because you cannot drive with one eye patched.

What Is Recovery Like After Removing Chalazia?

After your surgery, you will be prescribed antibiotic drops. In some cases, you might also be provided with an oral antibiotic. Some swelling and leaking of red fluid may happen over the course of the next two days. This is completely normal. To reduce swelling and promote faster healing, applying a cool compress to your eyelid may be beneficial. While the wound heals, it is recommended that you avoid touching your eyes, wearing contact lenses, and applying makeup.

How Much Does a Chalazion Removal Cost?

Chalazion surgery costs can vary depending on the size, location, and number of chalazia being treated. During your consultation with Dr. Michael Connor, we will assess your specific needs and provide a personalized cost estimate. This procedure is often recommended when a chalazion causes irritation or interferes with vision.

Patient Reviews

“I am super impressed with this practice. Dr. Connor is extremely talented. I made an appointment thinking that I needed surgery. A less professional and ethical Doctor could have easily scheduled a costly procedure. Dr. Connor was able to take...”

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“Dr Connor is terrific. He solved a persistent clogged oil duct problem painlessly. Staff is lovely as well. Very glad my optometrist recommended this excellent doctor.”

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“I was most comfortable with my first consultation with Dr. Conner explaining his procedure to correct and improve my upper and lower eyelids. From the moment I decided to have the surgery to my first appointment post surgery, I cannot...”

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“From the first appointment through the final post op visit my expectations were exceeded.Everyone was professional and friendly. Dr Connor is a gifted surgeon and I was amazed to get a post op call at home from Dr. Connor with...”

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Chalazion Surgery in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Palm Beach Gardens oculoplastic surgeon Michael Connor, MD, is considered one of the top eyelid surgeons in South Florida. With his years of experience helping people with chalazion removal surgery, he is known to yield exceptional results. For more information on what this procedure entails, we invite you to contact Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants today by calling (561) 845-6500 or filling out the form below.

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