Chalazion Surgery: What You Need to Know

A Chalazion is a small cyst or lump that can develop on your eyelid.

This can be a result of a blockage in the meibomian glands that produce oil, which causes your eyelid to redden and swell. Eventually, a visible lump can develop.

Chalazions typically are not painful and often go away on their own within two to eight weeks, but if you have had one for several months or it is starting to interfere with your vision, your eye surgeon may recommend surgical removal.

Do I need to do anything to prepare?

Chalazion Surgery involves anesthesia, which can be local or general. Local anesthesia only numbs the eyelid, while general anesthesia puts you to sleep for the entire procedure. Before surgery, it is important to tell your eye doctor or anesthesiologist about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription medications, vitamins and supplements, and herbal remedies.

It’s important to keep in mind that anesthesia can have a number of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. If you experience any of these side effects, be sure to tell your eye doctor.

How is the surgery done?

An ophthalmologist may perform surgery, known as a chalazion incision & curettage, to drain the chalazion. After anaesthesia, a specialised clamp is inserted to hold the eyelid open and a small incision is made on the under-surface of the eyelid. The eye surgeon will careful remove the cyst’s contents. Stitches are generally not needed.

The surgery usually takes approximately 10 minutes, but the full process, including preparation and anesthesia, may take around 45 minutes.

You will be given additional information about how to prepare, including whether you can eat or drink before surgery, from your ophthalmologist.

Is there any aftercare involved?

After surgery, you’ll likely be prescribed an antibiotic ointment and simple oral analgesia such as paracetamol.

Make sure to take any prescribed medications. If you are having surgery, be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat a light, bland diet for a few days afterwards. This will help prevent any swelling and ensure a speedy recovery.

You may also be given eye pads or shield to protect your eyes.

After an eye surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and leakage of a reddish fluid. This is normal and will go away in a few days.

You can use a cold compress on your eye a few hours after your surgery to reduce swelling.

Following surgery, you’ll want to avoid:
● rubbing or touching your eyes
● wearing contact lenses for a week
● getting water in your eyes when showering
● swimming

How long does recovery take?

The surgical incision should heal in about 7 to 10 days.
It is a good idea to avoid any activities that could potentially injure your eye for at least two weeks.

Are there any potential risks?

Chalazion surgery is a low-risk procedure, but it does still carry a few risks.

Potential risks include:
● bruising
● bleeding
● infection
● recurrence

As you recover, call your surgeon if you experience any of the following:

● redness and swelling that is getting worse
● green or thick discharge (some light, bloody discharge is normal)
● increased pain or pain that doesn’t improve with simple medications
● blurred vision
● fever higher than (38°C)

The bottom line

If your chalazion doesn’t go away on its own, your ophthalmologist may recommend surgical removal. This is a relatively quick and safe procedure.

Make sure to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions to improve your chances of a straightforward and speedy recovery.