What is a Chalazion?

A Chalazion is a small swollen lump in the upper or lower eyelid. Small oil glands called the meibomian glands line the edge of the eyelids and produce oil that lubricates the eye’s surface. When one of these glands becomes blocked, it can form a chalazion.

How is a Chalazion diagnosed?

An Optometrist or an Ophthalmologist primarily diagnoses a Chalazion with an eye examination.

What are the symptoms of a Chalazion?

The most common symptoms of a chalazion are:

• Slow-growing lump on the eyelid
• Eyelid redness and swelling
• Sore or painful when touched

What is the treatment for a Chalazion?

Chalazion treatment varies depending on persistence. Typically, a chalazion will go away with warm compresses and thoroughly clean the area with a q-tip and baby shampoo. A doctor may recommend a course of antibiotics or steroids. If left untreated, a chalazion can harden and may need surgical drainage. This procedure is typically done in-office and requires little downtime.

Additional information

A Chalazion is commonly mistaken as a hordeolum (stye). A stye occurs when an oil gland becomes infected and usually has a small white spot on the eyelid’s front surface. A chalazion forms when an oil gland is blocked and is much deeper than a stye. Typically, a chalazion will take a lot longer to improve compared to a stye.