A chalazion is a common eyelid condition that can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and unsightly, but fortunately, they are usually straightforward to treat.
A chalazion (pronounced kuh-LAY-zee-on) is a painless bump or swelling in the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland. It can start as a small, red, tender area and gradually form into a firm, round lump as inflammation builds up around the blocked gland. While it may look like a stye, a chalazion is typically not infected and doesn't usually cause pain once it fully forms.
Most chalazia are harmless and may go away on their own over several weeks, but persistent or bothersome cases may require treatment.
You should schedule a consultation if:
We offer several treatment options depending on the size of the chalazion, how long it has been present, and your level of discomfort:
1. Warm Compresses (First-Line Home Treatment): Gentle heat and massage can help open the blocked oil gland. Apply a clean, warm compress to the eyelid for 2-3 minutes and follow that with circular massage 2-3 times per day. This encourages natural drainage and is often effective in the early stages.
2. Steroid Injection (In-Office Procedure): If the chalazion doesn’t improve with home care, a steroid injection (usually triamcinolone and 5-fluorouracil) may be used to reduce inflammation. This quick in-office treatment involves a small injection directly into the bump, which can shrink or resolve the lesion over a few days to a week. It’s particularly helpful for smaller or less firm chalazia.
3. Incision and Drainage (Minor Surgical Procedure): For larger, long-standing, or persistent chalazia that do not respond to conservative measures, a minor procedure can be performed to remove it. Under local anesthesia, a small incision is made on the inner side of the eyelid to drain the trapped material. The procedure takes only a few minutes and recovery is generally quick.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our practice is self-pay and does not submit claims to insurance companies. However, we can provide the necessary documentation, such as procedure and diagnosis codes, for you to submit a claim on your own. Depending on your insurance plan and out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurance provider in advance for more information about your specific coverage.
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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.
