What is a chalazion and how is it treated?
A chalazion (also called a meibomian cyst) is a granulomatous inflammatory reaction that develops when a meibomian gland — one of the oil-producing glands in the eyelid — becomes blocked. The retained secretions trigger a chronic inflammatory response, forming a firm, usually painless lump in the body of the eyelid.
Most small chalazia resolve within a few weeks with warm compresses applied 3–4 times daily, combined with gentle eyelid massage. If a chalazion has been present for more than 4–6 weeks without improvement, or if it is large, uncomfortable, or affecting vision or appearance, surgical drainage may be indicated.
The procedure is minor and performed under local anaesthesia. The eyelid is anaesthetised, a clamp is applied, and the eyelid is everted. A small incision is made on the inner surface of the eyelid — not the skin — and the cyst contents are curetted out, so there is no visible scar on the outer eyelid. The specimen is sent for histopathological examination, as sebaceous gland carcinoma is a known mimicker of chalazion.
An alternative to surgery is an intralesional corticosteroid injection, which can be suitable for smaller or recently formed chalazia, particularly for patients who prefer to avoid surgery.
Have an eyelid lump that won't settle? Have it checked by Dr. Alia Issa.
When should you seek treatment?
Not every eyelid lump is a simple chalazion. Seek assessment from an oculoplastic specialist if:
- The lump has not resolved after 4–6 weeks of warm compress treatment
- The chalazion is large, affecting vision, or distorting the eyelid margin
- You have had multiple chalazia in the same location
- The lump is associated with loss of eyelashes, ulceration, or a rapidly changing appearance
- The eyelid margin is irregular around the lump
- You are prone to frequent recurrence and want advice on underlying causes
Dr. Issa examines the eyelid under magnification before treatment and sends excised material for pathological examination — important because sebaceous gland carcinoma, a rare but significant eyelid tumour, can present like a chalazion.
How the procedure works — before, during and after
Every case is individual. The following is a general outline of what patients can expect.
Dr. Issa examines the eyelid under magnification, assesses the size and position of the chalazion, everts the eyelid to examine the inner surface, and discusses the most appropriate treatment — surgical drainage or corticosteroid injection.
The eyelid is anaesthetised with a small local injection. A clamp is applied and the eyelid is everted, an incision is made on the inner surface, and the cyst contents are curetted out completely. Antibiotic ointment is applied and a light pad placed. The procedure takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
Bruising and swelling of the eyelid are expected and generally settle within 1–2 weeks. Antibiotic ointment is applied for about a week, and warm compresses after the first 48 hours encourage healing. Many patients return to daily activities the next day.
The lump typically resolves over 2–4 weeks as swelling subsides and the tissue remodels. A small firm nodule may persist briefly. If any residual lump remains beyond about 6 weeks, Dr. Issa reviews the result.
Why choose an oculoplastic surgeon for chalazion removal?
Most eyelid lumps are benign, but a small number are not — and a recurrent or atypical chalazion can occasionally signal something that needs pathology. An oculoplastic surgeon examines the lid under magnification and sends excised tissue for analysis, so an uncommon but important diagnosis is not missed.
Related reading in the Journal: our guide to chalazion removal in Dubai: when to have surgery and what to expect.
Frequently asked questions
What is a chalazion?
A chalazion is a firm, usually painless lump in the eyelid caused by a blocked meibomian gland. It is not an infection but a granulomatous reaction to retained gland secretions. Most settle with warm compresses; persistent ones may require surgical drainage.
What is the difference between a chalazion and a stye?
A stye is a painful, acutely infected lump that develops rapidly at the eyelid margin or within a gland. A chalazion is typically painless, develops gradually, and represents chronic inflammation rather than acute infection. Treatment differs.
How is a chalazion removed?
Under local anaesthesia, a small incision is made on the inner surface of the eyelid and the cyst contents are curetted out. There is no visible scar on the outer eyelid skin.
How long does the procedure take?
Approximately 15–20 minutes as a day case. You can usually go home immediately afterwards.
Do chalazia come back?
Some patients are prone to recurrent chalazia, particularly with blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, rosacea or oily skin. Dr. Issa advises on eyelid hygiene and treatment of underlying conditions to reduce recurrence.
When should I see a doctor about an eyelid lump?
Any lump that does not resolve after 4–6 weeks of warm compresses, is growing, is recurrent in the same location, or is associated with lash loss or ulceration should be assessed promptly. Recurrent or atypical lumps are sent for histopathology to exclude other causes.
Book your chalazion assessment in Dubai with Dr. Alia Issa.