Chalazion (inner eyelid cyst) removal at Spire Tunbridge Wells Hospital

A chalazion is a cyst (a small sac of fluid) on the inside of the eyelid. Due to its location, it can be mistaken for a stye and can grow to the size of a pea. If a chalazion is large, it can cause discomfort or affect vision. It is caused by a blocked gland in your eyelid. The glands help to keep your eyes moist by preventing the watery layer on the surface of your eyes (tears) from evaporating. They do this by producing an oily film over the tears.

A chalazion will sometimes get better on its own. However, your ophthalmologist may suggest a surgical procedure to remove it if it is large, uncomfortable, affects your vision or doesn’t respond to other treatments.

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You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

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Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

Your consultant will offer surgical treatment for chalazion cyst if other conservative methods have been unsuccessful.

They eyelid will be numbed and a small incision is made on the inside of the affected eyelid to release the contents of the cyst. The procedure is usually carried out under a local anaesthetic in an outpatient setting but on occasion, may need to be performed in a theatre environment. Your consultant will discuss the most appropriate options with you during consultations.

We understand that any medical procedure can be a cause of anxiety – even if it’s relatively straightforward. That’s why our experienced and caring medical staff with be there for you every step of the way.

Following the procedure it is important to keep dry and clean. Your consultant will give you additional information on caring for your eyelid following the procedure.

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.