Stye Removal Surgery in Phoenix
Also Serving Patients in Scottsdale
Stye or chalazion presents as a bump along the upper or lower eyelids. They may be red and painful or appear as a small non-tender bump under the eyelid skin. They are as a result inflammation or infection of the oil glands. Along the eyelid margin, close to the eyelashes, there are series of oil glands that produce oil. Every time we blink the oil mixes with the tears and makes the surface of the eye clear and lubricated.
In some patients, the secretions become thick and they cause clogging of the gland orifices and this causes accumulation of the sebaceous material within the gland. This causes swelling and inflammation of the glands and surrounding tissue. The glands could get infected and resulting in discharge, redness, and pain in that area.
Some people have an increased risk of developing chalazion. They include:
- Prior history of chalazion.
- Previous history of eyelid inflammation, infections or blepharitis
- Hormonal changes, especially during puberty.
- Skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, or seborrheic keratosis.
- Excessive application of make-up close to the eyelashes.
Initial treatment includes application of antibiotics either eye drops or ointment. If there is an actual infection, then systemic antibiotics may be given. Warm compresses and eyelid massage are very important and need to be done everyday. They help to melt the secretions and unclog the oil glands.
If there is no improvement with medical management, then the chalazion needs to be surgically removed. This is usually done at the office by your ophthalmologist. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. An injection of anesthetic solution is given using a very tiny needle to numb the eyelid. A small incision is made on the inside of the eyelid to drain the stye, leaving no visible scar. No sutures are necessary. Chalazion usually responds very well to this treatment. There is always a small risk of recurrence. Steroid injection into the lesion also helps to reduce the inflammation and may actually resolve the chalazion completely.
Dr. Ghafouri at Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists has extensive experience in managing the styes/chalazia and will be able to provide you with the best treatment options.
Stye causing eyelid infection
Chalazion involving lower eyelid
