A chalazion is a lump in the eyelid caused by a blocked meibomian gland (an oil-secreting gland of the eyelid). Chalazia are usually not infected but they do trigger an inflammatory reaction that makes the eyelid red, swollen and tender. The lump is about the size of a pea but the surrounding lid swelling can be much larger. Chalazia are not contagious and they do not have any risk of permanent change to vision.

Chalazia occur due to having inflamed eyelid margins, which is called ‘blepharitis’. Risk factors for chalazia include:

• Having eyes that are frequently red, sore, dry or watery
• Being predisposed to acne and pimples
• Contact lens wear
• Hormonal change (puberty, menopause)
• Applying make-up to the eyelid margin
• Eye rubbing, fatigue, and stress

This a brief procedure performed here in clinic by Dr Nick Andrew.

• Painless. After a small injection of local anaesthetic you will have no sensation.
• Brief. The procedure takes approximately 5 minutes.
• No scar. Dr Andrew drains the chalazion through a 1mm incision on the inside of the eyelid. This means means there is no mark or scar on the skin, and usually no bruise.
• Complete resolution of the chalazion.
• Rapid recovery. You can return to your normal activities the next day.

• You will be able to leave the clinic immediately after the procedure. The eye will be padded for 2 hours. You cannot drive while the eye is padded.
• The following morning you need to begin hot compression of the eyelid using a hot towel, three times per day for 3 days.
• The eyelid swelling has usually completely resolved within 24 hours.
• No swimming or rigorous exercise for 24 hours. However, you can do all other normal activities including showering.

• Having a bloodshot eye or small bruise on the eyelid (both are uncommon)

1.Perform daily eyelid scrubs with the product “Sterilid” (sold at most pharmacies). Sterilid is an antibacterial shampoo that reduces eyelid inflammation (blepharitis).

2.Speak to us about our intensive in-office treatments for blepharitis and dry eye. These treatments include Intense Pulsed Light, Blephex™ eyelid cleansing, and manual expression of the meibomian glands. These are a group of non-invasive procedures that can dramatically improve eye comfort, eye redness, and symptoms of dry eye. Learn more about treating your blepharitis and dry eye at this page, Dry Eye.

The content provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.

All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions.

Neither Dr. Andrew nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content.

All surgical procedures carry risk. Before proceeding with any operation, always consider obtaining a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.