Chalazion Surgery in London
Eyelid stye surgery
If you’ve recently noticed a painful, unsightly lump on your upper or lower eyelid, it can be a cause for concern. It can be distressing and may have an impact on your day-to-day activities and self-confidence. On this page, we’ll explain the difference between eyelid cysts, and explore how you may be able to manage these conditions without resorting to surgery.
What is the difference between a stye, a hordeolum, a chalazion and meibomian cyst and how do you treat them?
A Stye is a Hordeolum
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a common, self-limiting bacterial infection that affects the glands of the eyelid. It typically presents as a tender lump on either the inside or outside of the eyelid, referred to as the meibomian glands and the glands of Zeiss, respectively.
In most cases, a stye will go away without treatment. To facilitate healing, it is recommended to use warm compresses or hot flannels to heat up the eyelid in order to melt the oils in the blocked glands. Applying gentle pressure to the stye may also help it to discharge and heal naturally. In some cases, an antibiotic ointment may be required; however, there is limited evidence for its use.
If a stye becomes associated with a skin infection known as cellulitis, medical attention will be needed and you may be prescribed oral antibiotics. If you experience fever, sweats, blurry vision, reduced visual acuity, double vision, or swelling of the eyeball, medical attention should be sought immediately.
A Meibomian cyst is a Chalazion
A chalazion, also known as a Meibomian cyst, is a cyst in the eyelid caused by a blocked gland, either a Meibomian gland or a gland of Zeiss. It can occur following a stye or external hordeolum, and can present as a tender, painful lump or swelling near the lid margin.
In younger and older children, chalazia are typically found in the upper and lower eyelids. Treatment typically involves the use of warm compresses to heat up the eyelid, as well as the use of a clean washcloth and warm water with baby shampoo.
Risk factors for chalazia include Meibomian gland dysfunction, Seborrheic dermatitis, and Rosacea. In rare cases, a recurrent chalazion in an older person may be a sign of a more serious condition such as sebaceous carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma and should be addressed immediately.
Why is chalazion surgery done?
Surgery is an option for those who suffer from persistent, unsightly chalazia that do not settle with hot compresses, massage, or anti-inflammatory eye drops. Steroid injections may be offered as a treatment option, but the results are variable.
If the chalazion is not resolving despite treatment, surgical removal under local or general anesthesia (particularly in children) may be considered. Note that insurance coverage for chalazion surgery may depend on your policy, and cosmetic procedures may not be covered.
What are the risks?
Possible risks of chalazion surgery which is carried out as a day procedure where you go home on the same day include:
- Infection
- Bleeding from the eyelids
- Dryness and irritation of the eyes
- Difficulty closing the eyes
- Scarring although this is usually on the under surface of the eyelid and not visible on the face
- A need for follow up surgery
- Temporary blurring of the vision
- Rarely, loss of vision
To find out the most applicable risks you should talk to your doctor to understand more about chalazion surgery as well as the benefits and if they apply to you. This way you can decide with your doctor whether chalazion surgery is a good option.
How you prepare
Before performing chalazion surgery, you will meet with an eye plastic surgeon specializing in blepharoplasty to discuss:
- Your medical history including any previous surgery and current eye conditions.
- Your expectations with an honest discussion about what can be realistically achieved.
- A vision examination to check the eyes prior to surgery.
- A physical examination of the eyelids to ensure that this is the correct procedure.
- Eyelid photography can help with surgical planning and to provide evidence for any insurance claim.
Before having chalazion surgery, it is important to stop taking any blood-thinning medication, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, apixaban, and any other medications that may cause increased bleeding.
Your doctor will discuss these medications with you to ensure it is safe for you to stop taking them before the surgery. Additionally, stopping smoking several weeks before surgery can help improve healing after the surgery. Finally, make sure to arrange for someone to take you home after the operation.
What you can expect before the procedure?
Chalazion surgery is typically performed as a day case procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Before the surgery begins, your surgeon will inject a local anesthetic into the eyelids to numb the area.
What you can expect during the procedure
After injecting a local anesthetic, your surgeon will make an incision along the underside of the eyelid in order to remove the chalazion and allow its contents to discharge. A patch is then placed on the eyelid for four hours before being removed, and any scarring remains on the underside of the eyelid and should not be visible for a natural appearance. Mr Ahmad Aziz specializes in this procedure, and performs it in Central London.
What you can expect after the procedure
After surgery you are monitored for complications. You can leave later that day to recover and start healing at home.
After surgery you may temporarily experience:
- Blurred vision from the lubricating ointment applied to your eyes at the time of blepharoplasty
- Watering of the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Double vision
- Puffy, numb eyelids from the anaesthetic and chalazion surgery
- Swelling and bruising similar to having black eyes which will settle within a week
- Pain or discomfort
- Use ice packs on your eyes every hour the night you go home after the operation. The following day, use ice packs on your eyes four to five times throughout the day to help reduce the swelling
- Gently clean your eyelids and use prescribed medication.
- Avoid straining, heavy lifting and swimming for a week after chalazion surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activities, such as aerobics and jogging, for a week.
- Avoid smoking.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Not to use contact lenses for about two weeks after surgery.
- Wear darkly tinted sunglasses to protect the skin of your eyelids from sun and wind.
- Sleep with your head raised higher than your chest for 3 days after the surgery.
- After a few days, return to the surgeon to have stitches removed, if needed.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- An unusual heart rate
- Severe new eye pain
- Bleeding
- Vision problems
What are the results of surgery?
Many patients who undergo chalazion surgery report being satisfied with the results, which can include a more natural appearance, improved vision if the peripheral field was being obstructed, and increased self-confidence due to the reduction of the eyelid lump.
The results of this surgery can last a lifetime, but some patients may experience recurring chalazia due to blocked glands in the sebaceous glands around the eye. Bruising and swelling can take up to two weeks to settle down, and scars can take months to fully fade, although they should be well-covered on the underside of the eyelid. To maintain the results, patients should protect their eyelids from too much sun exposure, as they would with any other part of their skin.
FAQs
Chalazion surgery is a minor procedure to remove a persistent eyelid cyst that does not resolve with home treatments. The surgeon makes a small incision inside the eyelid under local anesthesia to drain the cyst. The procedure typically takes 15-20 minutes and leaves no visible scars.
Chalazion surgery is recommended for individuals with persistent eyelid cysts that do not respond to warm compresses, massage, or medication. It is particularly advised if the lump is causing discomfort, affecting vision, or becoming recurrent.
If you're looking for chalazion surgery in London, Eyes Defined Clinic offers expert treatment by experienced ophthalmologists specializing in eyelid procedures.
Recurring chalazia may be due to underlying conditions like Meibomian gland dysfunction, rosacea, or poor eyelid hygiene. A specialist can assess the cause and recommend preventive measures.
The cost of chalazion surgery in London varies depending on the clinic and whether it is covered by insurance. Private treatment typically ranges from £300 to £800. Eyes Defined Clinic can provide an exact quote after consultation.
Risks include mild swelling, bruising, temporary blurred vision, infection, or, in rare cases, scarring. However, the procedure is generally safe and performed as a quick outpatient treatment.
No, the incision is made on the inside of the eyelid, leaving no visible scars. Any minor swelling or redness usually resolves within a few weeks.
Before surgery, avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, or warfarin as advised by your doctor. Stop smoking and arrange transportation home, as you may experience temporary blurred vision.
Most people recover within 7-10 days, with mild swelling and bruising improving within a week. You can resume normal activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for about a week.
After surgery, you may experience mild swelling, light sensitivity, or slight discomfort. Applying ice packs and following post-care instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery.
Eyes Defined Clinic in London is a leading choice for chalazion surgery, offering expert care from specialists in oculoplastic surgery.
Some chalazia persist due to blocked oil glands, inflammation, or underlying conditions. If home treatments fail after a few weeks, consult a specialist for surgical removal.
A stye (hordeolum) is an active infection that often resolves with warm compresses, while a chalazion is a blocked gland that may require surgery if persistent.
In many cases, a chalazion resolves on its own. However, untreated large or recurring chalazia can cause eyelid deformity, vision obstruction, or secondary infections, requiring medical intervention.
Insurance coverage depends on whether the surgery is deemed medically necessary rather than cosmetic. Eyes Defined Clinic can provide guidance on insurance claims.