A chalazion is an inflammation and enlargement of an oil-producing gland in the eyelid called the meibomian gland.
It forms when the gland opening becomes clogged with oil secretions. It is not caused
by an infection from bacteria, and it is not cancerous.
How Is a Chalazion Treated?
About 25 percent of chalazia have no symptoms and will disappear without any
treatment. Sometimes, however, a chalazion may become red, swollen and tender. A
larger chalazion may also cause blurred vision by distorting the shape of the eye.
Occasionally, a chalazion can cause the entire eyelid to swell suddenly.
Symptoms are treated with one or more of the following methods:
1-Medical Treatment
Warm compresses or Mask. Warm compresses help to clear the clogged gland. Soak a clean gauze in
warm water and apply it to the lid for 10 minutes, five times a day until the chalazion is gone. You should
repeatedly soak the cloth in warm water to maintain adequate heat.
Antibiotic ointments. An antibiotic ointment may be prescribed if bacteria infect the chalazion.
Steroid injections. Sometimes used to reduce inflammation of a chalazion.
2- Surgical Treatment
Surgical removal. If a chalazion does not respond to medical treatments of more than 2 weeks or affects
vision, it may be drained surgically. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia in the
office and takes few minutes.
A chalazion usually responds well to treatment, although some people are prone to recurrences. If a chalazion recurs
in the same place, Dr. Farah may suggest a biopsy to rule out more serious problems.