Chalazion

What are the treatments for the condition?

Most chalazions go away on their own in a few weeks or months. If not, hot packs used for 10 minutes four times a day may help reduce the chalazion. Antibiotic ointments or drops, with or without a steroid, may help it resolve. Oral antibiotics are not usually given for this problem.

If the chalazion is quite large or has not responded to treatment, it may be removed surgically. Local anesthesia is used, and the lid is usually turned inside out with a lid clamp. This allows the doctor to drain the lesion and completely remove it from the underside of the lid. Then the doctor applies a pressure bandage with antibiotic ointment. This bandage must be kept in place for several hours. More antibiotic ointment can be used for 4 to 5 days. Rarely, a corticosteroid medicine is injected into the chalazion.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the treatment used. Ointments and eye drops may cause local irritation. Surgery carries a risk of infection, bleeding, and further eye problems.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If a chalazion occurs repeatedly or has a solid appearance, a biopsy may be done. This will help rule out an extremely rare cancer called sebaceous gland carcinoma.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.