A chalazion typically presents itself as a red, firm, painless eyelid swelling that develops over several weeks. They can occur on the upper or lower eyelid, and often more than one can appear at one time. Chalazia can be incredibly frustrating for patients, as they are often unsightly and difficult to treat. Even if you are successful at getting them to go away, they tend to reappear.

 

You may be wondering; how do I treat a chalazion, and more importantly, how do I prevent it from returning? Board-certified eyelid and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Malena M. Amato is an expert on all things eye-related. From reconstructing the eyelid for someone battling cancer to treating dark circles around the eyes with dermal fillers, Dr. Amato’s expertise and experience ensure excellent results. Read on to learn more about how to treat chalazia and how to prevent them from coming back.

What Is a Chalazion?

Before we can get into treatments and prevention of chalazia, it’s important to first understand what a chalazion is. We have meibomian glands along our upper and lower eyelids. These oil-producing glands are responsible for keeping our eyes appropriately lubricated. A meibomian cyst, also known as a chalazion, develops when these glands become blocked.

What Causes a Chalazion to Develop?

Chalazia are more likely to develop for the following reasons:

• You suffer from blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids, often from excess bacteria)
• You have a skin condition such as seborrheic dermatitis or acne rosacea
• You are diabetic or have certain health conditions
• You have had a chalazion or stye before

How To Treat a Chalazion?

Most chalazions require minimal medical treatment and clear up on their own in a few weeks to a month. There are a few at-home remedies that you can try, including:

• Apply warm compresses to the eyelids for 10 to 15 minutes, 4 to 6 times a day. The warm compress will help soften the hardened oils that are blocking the ducts and allow drainage and healing. Create a warm compress by dipping a clean, soft cloth in warm water and then wring out the excess water and apply directly to the affected eye. Remoisten the towel frequently to keep it warm.
• You can also gently massage the external eyelid several minutes a day with clean hands to help promote drainage.
• Once the chalazion drains on its own, keep the area clean, and keep your hands away from your eyes. If the chalazion does not drain and heal within a month, contact Dr. Amato. Chalazion surgery is a simple procedure performed under local anesthetic to numb the eyelid. A small incision is made on the inside of the eyelid to allow the contents of the cyst to drain.
• It’s essential that you DO NOT try to squeeze or “pop” the chalazion, as it may inadvertently cause more damage and can lead to infection

How To Prevent Chalazia

The best way to prevent a chalazion from forming or coming back is with good personal hygiene.

• Wash your hands before touching around your eyes including when you remove contacts or apply and remove makeup.
• Wash your face every day, morning and evening, to remove dirt, makeup, and oils. Be sure that you change out your towel frequently to prevent bacteria from forming in the fibers and transferring to your eyes.
• Remove your eye makeup before going to bed and replace all your eye cosmetics like mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow every 3 months. If you wear false eyelashes, it’s important to also remove all eyelash glue from your eyelashes.
• Clean all makeup brushes, washcloths, or tools you may use around your eyes to ensure they are free of bacteria that could cause a chalazion from forming or reappearing.

For Eyelid Surgery Contact Malena M. Amato MD

The eyelids are amongst the most sensitive and delicate areas on the body, with the skin being the thinnest and the eyes being the most expressive part of the face. It’s essential to choose a surgeon that specializes in oculoplastic facial surgery.

 

Dr. Amato is an oculoplastic surgeon with extensive, specialized training in operating on the delicate tissues around the eyes. To schedule an appointment, call (512) 501-1010 or contact us through our online website.