A chalazion or meibomian cyst is a chronic, steile inflammatory granuloma in the meibomian glands and a side effect of the retention of their fat secretion, which leads to a nodular lesion on the eyelid. It may appear at any age and may recur.

It usually develops as a hard and painless nodule. On occasions it may get superinfected (stye) and cause pain and redness of the eyelid. It may also be accompanied by purulent discharge.

In the event of redness of the eyelid or pain, you should consult an ophthalmologist as they are signs that usually indicate a superinfection and thus you can start the correct treatment as early as possible.

If there is a painless and stable lesion, but it is not aesthetically pleasant, then we advise that you consult your ophthalmologist.

Frequently, it comes about because of dematalogical issues like rosacea and is associated with blepharitis. In children, uncorrected hypermetropia may also be associated.

To prevent the appearance of chalazions (and styes) you should eat a diet rich in Omega 3 acids and undertake proper eyelid hygiene, carrying out an eyelid massage and cleaning the base of the eyelashes properly with specific wetwipes. It is equally important to remove your make-up (like mascara and eyeliner) as it affects the area of these glands.

Patients with a history of rosacea, recurring chalazions or blepharitis must see an ophthalmologist in order to manage the risk factors correctly.

Approximately a third of cases go away themselves, so occasionally treatment is not required. However, usually treatment consists of a eyelid massage with the application of heat and specific wetwipes as well as proper lubrication of the eye's surface. 

In the event that it presents itself as a stye, you must use an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory ointment. Only in very exceptional cases is it necessary to take oral antibiotics. 

In the case of persistent, cyst-like lesions that cause bother or are not aesthetically pleasant to the patient, surgical removal will be required. If they are found close to the lacrimal punctum or the palpebral border, a small corticosteroid injection is administered.