Chalazion: When to Consider Surgery and Potential Risks

Q: Chalazion: When to Consider Surgery and Potential Risks

Hello Mr. <br>Chuang： If it doesn't cause any issues, you can start with eye drops or ointments, which may help reduce the size, and surgery may not be necessary. <br>Whether you have the procedure done sooner or later, it is generally manageable, so please don't worry. <br>It is

Chalazion issue?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask a few more questions.

1.
Currently, there is a small chalazion formed on the upper part of my left eye, but it is not pressing against the eyeball.
It has been five days since I saw the doctor.
If warm compresses are not effective and it is not affecting the eyeball, should I consider surgical excision?
2.
Initially, it was somewhat soft, but now it has become slightly firm.
Will it turn into a granuloma or become more difficult to manage later on? Or is it better to have it surgically removed sooner rather than later?
3.
I would like to know if there are any potential complications from this.
My left eye is prone to developing chalazia, and I read online that there may be issues with dry eye syndrome.
Should I go ahead with the surgery? Thank you, Doctor.

Zhuang Jiawei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/29

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Chuang: If it doesn't cause any issues, you can start with eye drops or ointments, which may help reduce the size, and surgery may not be necessary.
Whether you have the procedure done sooner or later, it is generally manageable, so please don't worry.
It is rare to develop dry eye syndrome from this condition, and if surgery can be avoided, using medication is perfectly fine.
Additionally, a chalazion is not urgent, so we can observe it for a few weeks before deciding on further action.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards, Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2019/07/29

More Info

When it comes to understanding chalazion, it's important to recognize that this condition involves a blockage in one of the oil glands in the eyelid, leading to a localized swelling. Your concerns about whether to consider surgery, especially given the current state of your chalazion, are valid and deserve careful consideration.

1. When to Consider Surgery: If your chalazion has been present for five days and has not responded to conservative treatments like warm compresses, it may be time to evaluate surgical options. Typically, surgery is considered when the chalazion is persistent, causing discomfort, or affecting vision. Since you mentioned that it is not pressing against the eyeball, this is a positive sign, but if it continues to grow or becomes painful, surgical intervention may be warranted. The decision to proceed with surgery should be made in consultation with your ophthalmologist, who can assess the size, location, and symptoms associated with the chalazion.

2. Changes in Consistency: The transition from a soft to a slightly harder consistency can indicate that the chalazion is maturing. While some chalazia resolve on their own, others can become more fibrous and difficult to treat if left untreated for an extended period. If it becomes more fibrous, it may require a more invasive procedure to remove. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so if you are considering surgery, discussing this with your doctor sooner rather than later may be beneficial.

3. Potential Risks and Aftereffects: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Common risks associated with chalazion surgery include infection, bleeding, and scarring. However, the procedure is generally safe and performed under local anesthesia. Regarding your concern about potential long-term effects, such as dry eye syndrome, it is true that some patients report changes in tear production after eyelid surgery. However, these effects are usually temporary and can often be managed with artificial tears or other treatments.
It's also worth noting that recurrent chalazia can occur, particularly if there is an underlying condition affecting the oil glands, such as blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction. If you have a history of recurrent chalazia, your ophthalmologist may recommend additional treatments or preventive measures to minimize the risk of recurrence.

In summary, if your chalazion is not responding to conservative treatment and is causing you concern, it may be time to discuss surgical options with your ophthalmologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and help you weigh the benefits and risks of surgery. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and reduce the likelihood of complications. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure you make informed decisions regarding your eye health.

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