Quick answer
A chalazion is a benign, usually painless eyelid lump caused by a blocked meibomian gland. When warm compresses fail to clear it, Mr Mohyudin removes it by incision and curettage under local anaesthetic — a 10 to 15 minute procedure. The incision is made inside the eyelid, so there is no external scar.
Key facts at a glance
- From £500 (self-pay, Spire Elland)
- For persistent eyelid cysts and chalazia
- 10 to 15 minute procedure under local anaesthetic (adults)
- Incision inside the lid — no external scar
- Most patients return to work the next day
- Children generally need a short general anaesthetic
When to Consider Surgery
A chalazion that has been present for more than 4–6 weeks and has not responded to warm compresses (applied for 10 minutes, twice daily) is unlikely to resolve on its own. Surgery is the definitive treatment. A cyst that keeps recurring at the same site, or has unusual features, should also be assessed promptly — rare eyelid malignancies can mimic recurrent chalazia.
Incision & Curettage
The procedure takes 10–15 minutes under local anaesthetic. A small clamp holds the eyelid, an incision is made on the inside of the lid (so there is no external scar), and the cyst contents are curetted out. An antibiotic ointment and pad are applied for a few hours.
Recovery
- Mild bruising and swelling for a few days.
- Antibiotic ointment for 1 week.
- Most patients return to work the following day.
- Avoid eye makeup for 1 week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a chalazion take to go away?
Many clear within a few weeks with warm compresses, but some take longer. A lump that persists may need to be assessed by a clinician.
Should I squeeze a chalazion?
No. Squeezing can cause damage or infection. Use warm compresses and gentle massage instead, and seek advice if it does not settle.
What is the difference between a chalazion and a stye?
A stye (hordeolum) is an acute bacterial infection of a gland at the eyelid margin — it is typically painful, red and resolves within 1–2 weeks. A chalazion is a chronic, painless lump caused by blockage of a meibomian gland deeper in the eyelid. Chalazia often persist for months and frequently require surgical drainage.
Will the cyst come back after removal?
Recurrence at the same site is uncommon after proper surgical drainage. However, some patients are prone to developing new chalazia in the same or different eyelid due to underlying meibomian gland dysfunction. Lid hygiene and warm compresses can reduce the risk.
Is eyelid cyst removal done under general anaesthetic?
No — for adults, chalazion surgery is performed under local anaesthetic as a 10–15 minute day procedure. Children generally require a short general anaesthetic. You can go home within an hour of the procedure.
Book a Consultation
Private consultations available within 1–2 weeks at Spire Elland Hospital. No GP referral required.
Book at Spire Elland ↗ Call 01422 324000Insurance Accepted
Bupa (Fee-Assured), AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, Cigna and all major UK insurers.