Chalazion and Eyelid Lumps

 What Is a Chalazion?

A chalazion is a small lump that appears on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland (called a meibomian gland). It often begins as a red, tender swelling that may resemble a stye, but over time it becomes a firm, smooth bump under the skin of the upper or lower eyelid.

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What Does a Chalazion Look Like?

• A round  lump on the eyelid

• Initially often red and swollen but typically not painful once it settles, though it can cause discomfort or pressure

• Can vary in size — from a small pea to something more noticeable

• In some cases, it can affect vision if large enough to press on the eye
   

What Causes a Chalazion?

The eyelids contain tiny oil glands that help keep the eyes moist. When one of these glands becomes blocked, oil builds up and causes inflammation, forming a chalazion. Risk factors include:

• Blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation)

• Rosacea

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How Is Chalazion Treated?

Most chalazia are not serious and will settle on their own with simple at-home treatments:

• Warm compresses several times a day can help soften the blockage and encourage drainage

• Gentle eyelid massage after applying warmth can speed up resolution

• Antibiotic ointment obtained from the GP, pharmacy or an ophthalmologist

If a chalazion doesn’t improve after a few weeks — or becomes large, persistent, or cosmetically concerning — minor surgery may be recommended. This is usually performed under local anaesthetic and involves a small incision to drain the contents. In some cases, a steroid injection may be considered as an alternative.

If you're unsure whether you have a chalazion or need treatment, a consultation can help confirm the diagnosis and guide next steps.

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Not all eyelid lumps are chalazion

While chalazion is a common cause of eyelid lumps, not all lumps are due to blocked glands. Some may be benign growths, such as skin tags, seborrhoeic keratoses (waxy, raised lesions), or papillomas. Others, although less common, may be cancerous tumours such as basal cell carcinoma (the most common eyelid cancer), squamous cell carcinoma, or sebaceous gland carcinoma, which can sometimes mimic more harmless conditions.

Diagnosis is often made during a clinical examination, based on the appearance, texture, and behaviour of the lesion. However, in cases where the lump is unusual, persistent, changing in appearance, or causes concern, a biopsy may be recommended. This involves removing a small sample (or the entire lesion) for microscopic analysis to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

If you have an eyelid lump that is not improving, changing over time, or looks different to a typical chalazion, it’s important to have it properly assessed.