Chalazion is the enlargement of an oil-producing gland called Meibomian gland in the eyelid. It results when the Meibomian gland gets clogged at its’ opening with oily/sebaceous secretions. It is not an infection or a tumour.
How is a chalazion treated?
Approximately 25-50% of chalazion resolve either spontaneously or with conservative management. Occasionally, a chalazion may get infected and cause a red painful swelling with or without the swelling of the entire eyelid. This may need to be treated with antibiotics. If a chalazion becomes large in size, it may cause distortion of vision. Sometimes a chalazion can rupture on the surface of the eyelid.
Warm compresses
Soak a face washer in warm water or use a warm wheat bag and apply it over the chalazion at least twice a day. This may help release the clogging of the gland and resolution of the chalazion
Surgical removal
If the chalazion is large and persists, we may advise for surgical removal. It is performed under local anaesthetic in the office.
The risks of surgery include bleeding and infection.
Chalazia usually respond well to treatment. They may however sometimes recur. In such instances, we may either advise a biopsy or steroid injection.
