Chalazion Removal
While not usually malignant or painful, a chalazion is a common and often frustrating issue. These tiny inflammatory lumps can not only cause discomfort, swelling, redness, or blurred vision when left untreated, but they can present an unwanted aesthetic concern. As such, patients frequently wish to get rid of their chalazia as promptly as possible.
Less advanced chalazia can typically be removed with simple home remedies (e.g. warm compresses and gentle eyelid massages). If you have found these methods to be unsuccessful, our eye doctors would be happy to meet with you to discuss more intensive treatment options. Continue reading for more about chalazia, including causes, potential solutions, and more.
- What Is a Chalazion?
- Chalazion Removal Treatment Options
- Chalazion Removal Recovery
- Chalazion Removal Cost
What Is a Chalazion?
Also known as a “meibomian cyst” or “eyelid cyst,” a chalazion usually manifests as a small, painless lump on the eyelid. Chalazia occur when the meibomian gland – which is responsible for lubricating the eye with healthy oil – becomes blocked.* They are sometimes linked to viral conjunctivitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), among other common conditions. Moreover, chalazia are most often seen in patients between the ages of 30 and 50. *
What Are My Chalazion Removal Treatment Options?
In its earliest stages, a chalazion can be eased with warm compresses and eyelid massages (explore this blog for more). If the chalazion does not go away after these techniques are exhausted, it may be time to schedule a consultation at New Eyes. During this appointment, your eye doctor will discuss additional potential remedies, such as:
- Medications. Oral antibiotics or ointments may be ideal for moderate chalazia.
- Steroids. Our team can treat a chalazion with in-office steroid injections.
- Surgery. In more extreme cases, oculoplastic surgery may be required to remove a chalazion. Typically performed in 45 minutes or less with local or general anesthesia, the procedure aims to drain oil and debris from the eye.
What Does Recovery from Surgical Chalazion Removal Entail?
Recovery from surgical chalazion removal is generally quick. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day, but full healing might take a few weeks. You may experience mild blurry vision, swelling, and bruising around the area, but these effects should subside within a few days. Additionally, cold compresses may be used to relieve swelling. We advise you to closely follow your aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of recurrence and increase chances of proper healing.
How Much Does Chalazion Removal Cost?
Pricing for chalazion removal can depend on a variety of factors, specifically the treatment method administered (i.e. antibiotics, steroid injections, or surgery) and the severity of the case. Note that most insurance plans will cover the cost if deemed medically necessary; however, since this is not always the case, it is wise to consult with your provider for coverage details. Our friendly staff would be happy to help you navigate your benefits, as well.
At New Eyes, we strive to make the financial aspect of your care as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Please explore our eye care financing page for information about payment options, insurance coverage, and third-party installment plans through CareCredit®. As always, we welcome any questions you may have about your care.
To learn more about chalazia and/or removal options, we welcome you to contact New Eyes Las Vegas.