A chalazion is a slow-growing, painless lump in the eyelid caused by a blocked Meibomian (oil) gland. Unlike a stye, which is an acute infection, a chalazion is a chronic, sterile inflammation. Most will eventually settle with warm compresses and gentle lid massage — but a stubborn chalazion that has lingered for more than 4–8 weeks usually needs minor surgery.
When does an eye cyst need removing?
- It has been present for more than 6–8 weeks despite warm compress treatment.
- It is large enough to distort vision by pressing on the cornea (induced astigmatism).
- It is cosmetically obvious and embarrassing.
- It keeps coming back at the same site (in which case a biopsy is also warranted to rule out rare lid malignancies).
What does private chalazion removal involve?
Removal is a 10–15 minute minor procedure done in a treatment room or day-case theatre, under local anaesthetic, by your consultant.
A small clamp holds the lid steady, an incision is made on the inside of the eyelid (so there is no external scar), the cyst contents are curetted out and any remaining capsule is excised. An ointment and patch are applied for a few hours.
Recovery
- Mild bruising and swelling for a few days.
- Antibiotic ointment for 1 week.
- Most patients return to work the next day.
- Showering and washing the face normally is fine — avoid eye makeup for 1 week.
Cost
Private chalazion incision and curettage in the UK typically costs around £600 – £1,200 per cyst inclusive of consultation, procedure and follow-up. Recognised by all major UK insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a visible scar after eye cyst removal?
In the vast majority of cases the incision is made on the inside surface of the eyelid (transconjunctival approach), so there is no visible external scar. Very large or very lateral cysts occasionally require an external skin incision, which heals to a fine line within the natural lid crease.
Can a chalazion be cancerous?
A simple chalazion is benign. However, a recurring lump at exactly the same spot, or one with unusual features such as loss of lashes or distorted lid margin, can occasionally indicate a sebaceous gland carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma. For this reason, recurrent or atypical lesions are biopsied and sent for histology.
Mr Mohamed Mohyudin
MBChB BSc MSc FRCOphth CCT — Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Spire Elland Hospital, Yorkshire. GMC 7039600.
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