What is a chalazion?
A chalazion is a small, usually painless lump that forms in the eyelid when an oil gland becomes blocked. It is one of the most common eyelid lumps and is almost always benign.
Unlike a stye, which tends to be acute, red, and tender near the lash line, a chalazion typically develops deeper in the eyelid and may persist for weeks or months without much discomfort.
- Caused by a blocked meibomian (oil) gland in the eyelid
- Very common and usually benign
- Different from a stye, which is typically an acute infection near the lashes
- May resolve on its own but can persist or recur
When to seek evaluation
Most small eyelid lumps do not need urgent attention, but certain signs suggest that a proper clinical assessment is worthwhile.
- A lump that lasts more than a few weeks or returns in the same area
- Recurrent chalazia affecting one or both eyelids
- A lesion that is changing in size, shape, or colour
- Crusting, bleeding, or loss of eyelashes in one area
- Increasing swelling, tenderness, or redness
If you notice any of these signs, a comprehensive eye examination can help determine the cause and guide next steps.
How we assess eyelid lumps
Persistent or recurrent eyelid lumps deserve a careful clinical examination so that treatment is precise and unnecessary procedures are avoided.
- Slit-lamp examination of the eyelid and ocular surface
- Assessment of the eyelid margin and oil glands
- Evaluation of factors that may contribute to recurrence
- A clear, individualised management plan
The examination helps distinguish between a simple chalazion, a chronic inflammatory lesion, and other eyelid conditions that may require different management.
Treatment options
Treatment is guided by the diagnosis, your symptoms, and how long the lump has been present.
- Targeted home care plan (warm compresses, lid hygiene) for early or mild cases
- Medical treatment when inflammation is present
- In-office minor procedure for persistent chalazion that has not responded to conservative care
- Removal of selected lesions when clinically indicated
When a minor procedure is needed, it is performed with attention to eyelid contour, comfort, and a clean cosmetic outcome.
Preventing recurrence
For patients with recurrent chalazia, long-term control of eyelid inflammation is often the key to reducing future episodes.
Chalazia are closely linked to blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) -- conditions in which the oil glands of the eyelids become chronically inflamed or blocked.
- Consistent eyelid hygiene and warm compress routine
- Management of underlying blepharitis or MGD
- Periodic follow-up to monitor eyelid health
Addressing the underlying cause, rather than just treating each lump as it appears, is the most effective long-term strategy.
When a lesion needs further attention
Most eyelid lumps are benign, but certain features may prompt closer evaluation. A lesion that is growing, changing colour, bleeding, or causing lash loss should be examined carefully.
Proper clinical evaluation can help distinguish common benign lumps from less common lesions that may warrant biopsy or specialist referral.
- Changing appearance, irregular borders, or pigmentation
- Bleeding or ulceration that does not heal
- Loss of eyelashes overlying the lesion
- A lump that recurs in the exact same location after treatment
When biopsy or further investigation is appropriate, this will be discussed clearly along with the reasons and next steps.