A chalazion is a type of swelling that occurs on the eyelids. It forms due to the blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. Symptoms may include a lump on the eyelid, a slight feeling of heaviness, rarely a stinging or itching sensation, and occasional blurred vision. However, its size and location may not cause symptoms. Treatment options include warm compresses, regular eyelid cleaning, and antibiotic ointments.
What is Chalazion?
A chalazion is a type of swelling or cyst formed due to the blockage of the meibomian glands located within the eyelids, which produce oil secretion.
A chalazion is painless and develops slowly. It can be felt as a hard, round mass on the eyelid. The main symptoms of a chalazion include swelling, redness, and discomfort in the eyelid.
It may resolve on its own without intervention, although sometimes medical treatment or surgical intervention may be necessary. Although it can affect people of all age groups, it is more commonly seen in those with chronic blepharitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne.
What Causes Chalazion in the Eye?
The main cause of a chalazion is the improper functioning or blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. However, there are several factors that contribute to this blockage:
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Inadequate eyelid hygiene:
Not cleaning the eye area regularly and properly, sleeping with makeup on, or using spoiled makeup products can increase the likelihood of clogging the oil glands.
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Skin diseases:
Skin problems that directly affect the oil glands, such as rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis, can lead to the development of a chalazion.
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Post-stye period:
The period after a stye can also be a time when a chalazion may form. During the healing process of a stye, the oil glands in the eyelid can be damaged, potentially leaving a blocked gland behind, even after the stye has completely healed.
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Oily skin type:
Individuals with an oily skin type also have a higher risk of gland obstruction. Excessive sebum production disrupts the proper functioning of the glands and creates a predisposition for chalazion formation.
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Frequent eye rubbing:
Frequent eye rubbing may traumatize the eyelid and affect the structure of the glands. This situation impairs the healthy functioning of the oil glands and leads to their blockage.
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Chronic blepharitis (eyelid inflammation):
The condition of chronic blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) may cause the development of a chalazion. In this condition, continuous inflammation occurs at the base of the eyelashes, preventing the proper functioning of the oil glands, leading to blockage.
What are the Symptoms of Chalazion?
Since a chalazion progresses painlessly, individuals may not initially notice its occurrence. However, it becomes evident cosmetically or when it grows, prompting a visit to the doctor. Common symptoms include:
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Noticeable swelling on the eyelid: This is the most common and initially perceived symptom. It is felt as a hard, round mass on the eyelid.
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Redness of the eyelid: A chalazion may sometimes cause the eyelid to become red.
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Pain or discomfort: In some cases, a chalazion may be painful. However, it doesn't always occur and is generally mild.
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Increased tearing: Some individuals may experience excessive tearing from the eye with the chalazion.
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Sensitivity to light: In some cases, sensitivity to light may occur.
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Blurred vision: If the chalazion is large or obstructs vision, temporary blurred vision may occur.
In case of any suspicion, consulting healthcare professionals is recommended and the necessary treatment process should be initiated.
How is Chalazion Treated?
A chalazion is a type of swelling caused by the blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. It is usually painless and can occur at any age. Medication is usually sufficient for the resolution of a chalazion, but in some cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Topical medications such as eye drops or ointment may be prescribed in some cases to support treatment. These medications are designed to reduce swelling and prevent infection. Prescribed medications should be used regularly for the duration recommended by your doctor.
Warm compress application is also effective in treating a chalazion. A warm compress is prepared by soaking a piece of cloth in warm water and then squeezing out the excess. The cloth should be applied to the eyelid for 10-15 minutes. This should be repeated several times a day. The heat helps melt the oil within the blocked gland, reducing swelling as a result.
If the chalazion does not resolve or continues to grow despite these methods, you should consult your doctor. Your doctor may perform a surgical intervention to shrink the swelling.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention may be required for chalazions that do not resolve within 3-6 weeks despite alternative methods, reach cosmetically disturbing sizes, or recur frequently.
Although considered a last resort for patients, surgical intervention is a safe and effective method. It is preferred in the following situations:
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If the size of the mass obstructs vision
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If aesthetic concerns disturb the individual
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In chronic conditions resistant to treatment
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If the chalazion exhibits repetitive characteristics
How is Chalazion Surgery Performed?
Chalazion surgery is a procedure performed under local anesthesia by making a small incision on the inside of the eyelid. It is used to treat chalazion, a type of oil gland mass on the eyelid.
The first step is to sterilize the patient's eye and surrounding area to minimize the risk of infection. Then, the doctor numbs the eyelid with local anesthesia.
The next step involves the doctor making a small incision on the eyelid. The incision is made on the inner surface of the eyelid, leaving no external scar. The doctor then enters through this incision and removes the chalazion.
Finally, the doctor cleans and bandages the incision area. Antibiotic eye drops are prescribed to the patient, and follow-up appointments are arranged for the healing process.
Does Chalazion Recur?
If the factors causing chalazion are not controlled, it may recur. In some individuals, chronic blepharitis or rosacea may constantly set the stage for gland blockages.
To prevent recurrence, attention should be paid to the following:
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Maintaining eyelid cleanliness
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Using makeup products hygienically and avoiding sleeping with makeup
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Regularly treating skin diseases
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Avoiding the habit of rubbing eyes
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Having regular eye examinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a chalazion and a stye?
A chalazion develops due to a non-inflammatory blockage, whereas a stye is a generally painful swelling caused by bacterial infection. A stye starts quickly, with noticeable redness and tenderness. In contrast, a chalazion develops slowly and is usually painless.
Can a chalazion heal on its own?
Yes, in early stages, many chalazions can resolve on their own with warm compresses and proper eye hygiene. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor for cases lasting longer than 3–6 weeks.
Does chalazion surgery leave a scar?
No. Since the surgery is performed from the inside of the eyelid, no visible scar is left.
What should be considered after chalazion surgery?
It is important to avoid rubbing the eyelid for the first few days, use the prescribed drops regularly, and not skip follow-up appointments.