Chalazion removal
chalazion · eyelid cyst removal · eyelid lump · meibomian cyst
A chalazion is a firm lump on the eyelid from a blocked gland. Under local numbing, the doctor opens it and clears it out.
When the lump does not go away on its own in a few weeks, bothers you, grows, or often gets inflamed.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 30 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Makeup. Come without eye makeup.
- Medicines. Do not stop them on your own. Your doctor will say if anything needs to change.
- Getting there. You may have an eye patch afterward. Best not to drive.
What to bring
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
- Someone to drive you, if you go by car
How it goes
- The eyelid is cleaned with antiseptic
- A numbing shot is given into the eyelid
- A clamp holds the eyelid still
- Most often a small cut is made on the inside of the eyelid
- The contents are removed
- Ointment and a pressure patch are applied
What you'll feel
- The shot is unpleasant, but brief
- Then pressure without pain
- Afterward, mild swelling and a bruise on the eyelid
Afterwards
- The patch comes off after a few hours, as your doctor says
- Use ointment or drops as prescribed
- Do not rub your eye
- Swelling usually goes down in a few days
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Growing swelling, redness and pain, or a fever
- Worse vision
Common questions
Can it go away on its own?
Sometimes, yes. Warm compresses and eyelid massage help. Ask your doctor how to do them.
Will there be a scar?
Usually the cut is on the inside of the eyelid, and no scar shows.
Can it come back?
It can. Your doctor will explain eyelid care.