Experiencing eyelid pain months after chalazion removal?

Question

In December, I had a chalazion removed by an eye specialist. It was a pea sized hard lump on one of my upper eyelids near my tear duct. It never hurt. Did the compresses and used a cream prescribed. Even had a follow-up. When I touch/apply makeup to where the lump was, I get an uncomfortable tenderness there. It lasts a while and gives me headache symptoms I can't ignore. Usually I use eye drops or use a compress it goes away. It's just the one eye hence me not thinking it's dry eyes from screens.

Dan Landmann, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for posting it on RealSelf!
While persistent pain is commonly not normal after chalazion removal (usually referred to as incision and curettage), spot tenderness is not unheard of. I usually discuss with my patients that bruising can last anywhere from 1-2 weeks and swelling can last anywhere from 4-6 weeks following a procedure. Even seemingly small procedures like stye removals can cause discomfort for quite some time. That being said, it is difficult to answer this question specifically without an in person examination. I would recommend seeing your doctor once more so that they may evaluate your eyelid and make sure that everything is going well. As your doctor, they will always have your best interests in mind. If you want to see a specialist, visit your local oculoplastic surgeon. These doctors are specifically trained to handle issues associated with the eyelids. 
Hope this helps!
Dr. Dan Landmann, MD, MSEE

Mahsa A. Sohrab, MD · Answer

It is atypical to have persistent pain months after chalazion removal. Based on your description, it sounds as though the chalazion was likely chronic and consisted mostly of scar tissue, which does make it more challenging to resolve. I would suggest seeing an oculoplastic surgeon to evaluate the eyelid and tear duct to make sure you have properly healed from the surgery.

Experiencing eyelid pain months after chalazion removal?

Answers (2)