A chalazion is a small cyst (a fluid-filled swelling) in the eyelid, usually about 2-8 mm in size. A chalazion can occur on either one or both eyelids simultaneously and most commonly on the upper eyelid.
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Chalazion (Cyst)
Chalazion (cyst)
Tiny glands under the inner surface of the eyelid, which make an oily fluid to help lubricate the eye, can get blocked. If this happens, the fluid is unable to escape and swells into a cyst. A chalazion is not normally infected but over time, inflammation causes a nodule (or granuloma) to form, which is a firm lump that remains for a long time. This lump is the chalazion. Chalazion are more likely to occur in people who have blepharitis, or skin conditions such as eczema.
Symptoms of a chalazion
- A small lump on one or both eyelids.
- Mild pain or irritation can sometimes occur
- If infected, the eyelid will become more swollen and painful.
- Distorted vision may occur but only if the cyst becomes to big that it presses on the eyeball.
Treatment
- Watchful waiting – may be advised if the chalazion is not causing any problems, since 25-50% of people get better without any treatment. However the condition can take between 2 and 6 months or more to resolve.
- Hot compresses – can help to ease discomfort. Hold a clean flannel that has been in hot water gently but firmly against the closed eye. Do this for 5-10 minutes, 3-4 times a day. Sometimes this warmth and slight pressure is enough to soften the contents of the cyst, helping it drain more easily. The water should be hot, but comfortable and not scalding.
- Massage – after using a hot compress, gently massaging the cyst with a clean finger or cotton bud can encourage the cyst to drain.
- Cleaning the eyelid – doing this twice per day removes grease and grime that may contribute to cysts forming. A weak solution of baby shampoo in warm water works well.
- Chalazion Surgery – if the cyst does not go, or if it is causing troublesome symptoms, an operation can be done under local anaesthetic. The eyelid is numbed and a small cut is made on the inside of the eyelid to release the contents of the cyst.
Antibiotic ointments, drops and medicines will not make any difference since the contents of the cyst are sterile and infection-free.
Complications
Most cysts do not cause any major problems but rarely a cyst can become infected. This can spread to involve the whole eyelid and the tissues surrounding the eye.
The eyelid may be very swollen and red, difficult to open and there may be a lot of pain and fever. Sometimes the eyeball is pushed forward so that the eye sticks out more.
If there is a suspected infection, it is vital to see a medical professional urgently.
Recurrance
For most people a chalazion occurs just once. However, some people are prone to developing them and it may recur. You may be able to prevent it from recurring by using a hot compress and massaging the eyelids each morning.
Contact us
Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.
If you do not have a GP, then we have an in-house private GP practice that you can use. Alternatively we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstance.
If you have medical insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa PPP, Norwich Union), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation for any treatment and, in most cases, you will require a referral letter from your GP.
For the next available chalazion (cyst) appointment you can contact us by emailing [email protected] or by calling our team on 020 7078 3848.
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If you have any questions relating to treatment options or pricing information, get in touch with us by filling out one of our contact boxes or giving us a call on 020 7078 3848.
Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.
If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.
If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.
*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.
