Hard Bumps on Eyelids: Causes and Treatment Options

Foreign body on the eyelid?

Hello, Dr.
Zheng.
Since childhood, I have occasionally developed hard lumps on my eyelids that are neither painful nor itchy.
They usually do not grow larger and cannot be squeezed out like acne.
I typically ask family members to use a needle to remove them, but since they are on the eyelids, it is quite dangerous and difficult to remove completely.
I would like to ask the doctor what these could possibly be.
Should I ignore them? Thank you.

Hui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/15

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

It could be a sweat gland tumor or a milium.
Sweat gland tumors often have a family history, are non-expressible lesions, and commonly occur around the eyes; they can be removed with laser treatment.
Miliaria are caused by gland obstruction or small epidermal cysts and can be extracted with a needle, but since the lesions are located on the eyelids, it is safer and more appropriate to have a physician handle the treatment.

Reply Date: 2000/11/15

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing hard bumps on your eyelids that have been present since childhood. These bumps, which are typically painless and do not change in size, are likely to be benign conditions such as chalazia or milia.

Chalazia are small lumps that can form on the eyelid due to blocked oil glands. They are usually painless and can resolve on their own, but if they become bothersome or persist, they may require treatment. Treatment options include warm compresses to help unblock the gland, and in some cases, a healthcare provider may need to drain the chalazion or inject it with a steroid to reduce inflammation.

Milia, on the other hand, are tiny cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. They are common in people of all ages and are typically harmless. Milia often resolve on their own, but if they are persistent, they can be removed by a dermatologist or an ophthalmologist using a sterile needle or a specialized tool.

Given that you mentioned these bumps do not cause pain or discomfort, it is generally safe to monitor them without immediate intervention. However, if you notice any changes in size, color, or if they start to cause irritation, it would be wise to consult with an eye care professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options if necessary.

It's important to avoid attempting to pop or squeeze these bumps yourself, especially on the eyelid, as this can lead to infection or scarring. Instead, maintaining good eyelid hygiene and using warm compresses can help manage the condition.

If you are concerned about the appearance of these bumps or if they affect your vision, I recommend scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist or a dermatologist. They can assess the bumps and provide you with the best course of action tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while these hard bumps on your eyelids are likely benign, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if there are changes in their appearance. Regular check-ups can help ensure that your eyelid health is maintained, and any necessary treatments can be administered safely.

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