Nodule on my Eyelid!

 Nodule (chalazion) over their eyelid?! It often appears at the wrong time, may cause discomfort or heaviness, and not to mention, spoils your good looks! You must have wondered why me ?! Well, here's some useful information! 

 

What is a Chalazion, and what causes it?

 

A chalazion is simply a nodule arising within eyelid tissue, following a bacterial infection. The oil glands in your eyelid may get blocked, and the pent-up secretions get infected. The infection may subside, but excess tissue reaction leaves behind a nodule. If small, it may fade away, but usually they stay along as a painless nodule. This of you who have Blepharitis, rosacea (a skin condition), dry eyes or even diabetes are more prone to get these nodules.

 

Treatment of a Chalazion

A chalazion does not affect your vision or eye function. Most patients desire treatment for cosmetic reasons, and rightly so: it isn't a beauty spot afterall!

 

Treatment options

Given below are the 3 standard methods available to treat these nodules. The first one (medications and warm compresses) is something you can do at home, whereas for the other two, you'll need to consult an eye-plastic surgeon: 

 

Simplest and safest

50-70% cure rate

Takes weeks-months

 

 

Non-surgical

70-80% cure rate

Takes 2-4 weeks

1 or more needed

 

 

Minor surgery

95-100% cure rate

Takes 1-2 weeks

 

Preventing a Chalazion 

Any treatment for chalazion only cures the existing ones. In order the prevent new ones from appearing, follow these preventive measures:  

1) Lid hygiene:  Cleaning your eyelids with a cotton bud, using diluted baby shampoo is a good start.  Pre-moistened eyelid cleansing pads is another (but expensive) option. Proper lid hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of styes.

2) Stop wearing eye makeup temporarily, and  discard old makeup or applicators that could be contaminated.  Clean your eyelids thoroughly before bedtime. 

3) Warm compresses: You can help the eyelid oil glands to empty their secretions by applying warm compresses. Dip a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it, and then place it over your closed eyes. Alternatively, if you are a Tea/Coffee drinker, hold your fingers around the cup until warm, and place them on your closed eyelids. The warmth from the compress often will allow the glands to open, drain and heal faster. Do this approximately 3-4 times a day, for 5-10 minutes each.

 Disclaimer: All views expressed here are based on my 20+ years of exclusive practice of eyelid and Oculoplastics. It does not represent the official views of my workplace, any medical society I represent, my country, or any ethnic group in particular. The information is meant for educational purpose only, and expert medical opinion is strongly recommended for your individual eyelid nodule. 

 




Dr. Milind Naik, MD                                

Oculoplastic Surgeon, Hyderabad 

Email: milind@drmilindnaik.com

 

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