Is my chalazion too small to be removed? Am I stuck with this for the rest of my life? (photo)

Question

I have a small chalazion on my upper eyelid, hard to see on the photos by there is a noticeable red area and it's uncomfortable. I have chronic blepharitis, and had chalazions before. I applied warm compresses 4 times a day, 10 mins + massage + antibiotic, but it only got it down to this size. I heard that if a chalazion is too small they can't surgically remove it. Is this true? I know about injection but it was tried me before on another chalazion and didn't work. Am I stuck with this forever?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The very seldom represent an infection. While it is common for ophthalmologists to offer surgery for these, many will resolve on their own. Those that don’t can be treated with a kenalog injection, avoiding the need for surgery.

Dan Landmann, MD · Answer

Thanks for your photos and questions. A chalazion is a condition on the spectrum of eyelid gland dysfunction, or a problem that can occur as a result of certain glands in the eyelid becoming "clogged." Sometimes the chalazion can form a dense capsule and become more like a cyst. In these cases, it can take many months to resolve. The size does not matter, although it is more common for these types of cystic chalazia to be larger. The treatment can include warm compresses, steroid injection, or minor surgery to drain or excise the cyst. Regardless of what you do, it can take 2-3 interventions on average to fully resolve the problem. In addition, you may benefit from eyelid scrubs or taking flaxseed oil as a supplement to help prevent future styes from becoming chalazia and cysts. I recommend seeing an oculoplastic surgeon to discuss your treatment options and choosing the best next step for you. Hope this helps!

Is my chalazion too small to be removed? Am I stuck with this for the rest of my life? (photo)

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Is my chalazion too small to be removed? Am I stuck with this for the rest of my life? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.