A chalazion is a common, non-infectious eyelid lump caused by a blocked oil gland. It may start as a small, red bump and become a firm, painless swelling. Other cysts or lumps (such as styes or sebaceous cysts) may also form on the eyelid.
While many resolve on their own, some require medical treatment.
With oculoplastics training from Queen Victoria Hospital, Mr. Sheikh provides:
Calm, reassuring care for patients of all ages
• Warm compresses for early-stage cysts
• Antibiotics if there’s infection (e.g. for a stye)
• Incision & Curettage – a minor surgical procedure to drain or remove a persistent chalazion
• Excision biopsy – if the cyst is suspicious or recurrent, to rule out skin cancer
• Procedure done in minutes under local anaesthetic
• Mild swelling or bruising for 1–2 days
• Antibiotic ointment may be given
• You can return to normal activities quickly
• Stitches are usually not needed
• Image of a chalazion vs stye vs cyst
• Diagram of eyelid cross-section and blocked gland
• Photo of sterile in-clinic setup
A stye is usually painful and infected. A chalazion is a blocked gland and often painless.
Many cysts resolve with warm compresses. If it persists, a minor procedure may be recommended.
The area is numbed with anaesthetic drops or injection. The procedure is quick and very tolerable.
Most leave no visible scar, especially when performed from the inside of the eyelid.
If you have a lump on your eyelid that’s persistent, growing, or bothersome – book a consultation with Mr. Ijaz Sheikh for safe, professional assessment and management.
