Eye lid Kenalog injection: Can something be done to prevent further damage?

Question

Chalizion treatment. Skin turned white instantly (I am very light-skinned). Why did it happen? Can it be removed (it was injected less than 12 hours ago and still floats under different parts of the lid) or anything be done to avoid possible atrophy? Will white spot be permanent?

C. Blake Perry, MD · Answer

Sorry you are having trouble. Kenalog injection is fairly common after chalazion incision and drainage. If it is injected superficially the white particles can be seen under the skin. This typically goes away as the body absorbs the kenalog. It is uncommon to develop atrophy or permeant white areas from one injection if an appropriate amount and concentration is used. Best to follow up with your surgeon. Hope this helps, best of luck.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Kenalog injections can be very helpful for chalazions.  If a high concentration is used, or if it is injected very superficially you will see the white of the kenalog under the skin.  This usually goes away but can take many weeks.  Unless a large amount was injected you should not see any atrophy of the lid.

Holly Chang, MD, FACS · Answer

Depending on the amount and concentration injected, the steroid depot can persist for weeks to months. If it does not go away after a period of time determined by you and your doctor, it can be surgically excised with mild to minimal scarring.

Asaf Yalif, MD, FACS · Answer

As noted below the "white" color of the kenalog usually dissipates over time. And the steroid should help with the chalazion. Follow closely with the injecting physician to make sure that it responds as expected.

Eye lid Kenalog injection: Can something be done to prevent further damage?

Answers (4)

Answer: Kenalog in lid

Answer: Kenalog in lid

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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Eye lid Kenalog injection: Can something be done to prevent further damage?

Answers (4)

Answer: Kenalog in lid

Answer: Kenalog in lid

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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