01422 324000
Mr Mohamed Mohyudin Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Private Treatment — Spire Elland Hospital, Yorkshire

Mr Mohyudin Eyelid Cyst (Chalazion) Removal

Chalazia and eyelid cysts are common, benign lumps that develop when a meibomian gland becomes blocked. Persistent cysts that do not resolve with warm compresses are easily and quickly treated with minor surgery under local anaesthetic.

💷 From £500 (self-pay, Spire Elland)
✓ Insurance accepted
📅 Appointments within 1–2 weeks

When to Consider Surgery

A chalazion that has been present for more than 4–6 weeks and has not responded to warm compresses (applied for 10 minutes, twice daily) is unlikely to resolve on its own. Surgery is the definitive treatment. A cyst that keeps recurring at the same site, or has unusual features, should also be assessed promptly — rare eyelid malignancies can mimic recurrent chalazia.

Incision & Curettage

The procedure takes 10–15 minutes under local anaesthetic. A small clamp holds the eyelid, an incision is made on the inside of the lid (so there is no external scar), and the cyst contents are curetted out. An antibiotic ointment and pad 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 following day.
  • Avoid eye makeup for 1 week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a chalazion and a stye?

A stye (hordeolum) is an acute bacterial infection of a gland at the eyelid margin — it is typically painful, red and resolves within 1–2 weeks. A chalazion is a chronic, painless lump caused by blockage of a meibomian gland deeper in the eyelid. Chalazia often persist for months and frequently require surgical drainage.

Will the cyst come back after removal?

Recurrence at the same site is uncommon after proper surgical drainage. However, some patients are prone to developing new chalazia in the same or different eyelid due to underlying meibomian gland dysfunction. Lid hygiene and warm compresses can reduce the risk.

Is eyelid cyst removal done under general anaesthetic?

No — for adults, chalazion surgery is performed under local anaesthetic as a 10–15 minute day procedure. Children generally require a short general anaesthetic. You can go home within an hour of the procedure.

Book a Consultation

Private consultations available within 1–2 weeks at Spire Elland Hospital. No GP referral required.

Book at Spire Elland ↗ Call 01422 324000

Insurance Accepted

Bupa (Fee-Assured), AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Cigna and all major UK insurers.

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