By Dr. Javier De La Torre, Southwest Eye Institute
A chalazion—a small, often stubborn bump on the eyelid—can be a nuisance for many patients. At Southwest Eye Institute, Dr. Javier De La Torre demonstrates a simple, effective in-office treatment using a combination of steroid injection and ongoing home care.
What Is a Chalazion?
A chalazion forms when an oil gland (meibomian gland) in the eyelid becomes blocked and inflamed. Unlike a stye, it usually isn’t painful, but it can cause cosmetic concerns and interfere with vision if it grows large enough.
Initial Treatment: Massage and Ointment
In most cases, conservative treatment is tried first. Patients are advised to:
- Gently massage the eyelid
- Apply warm compresses
- Use medicated ointments as prescribed
However, when these methods don’t resolve the issue, a minor in-office procedure may be recommended.
The In-Office Procedure: Steroid Injection
In this procedure, Dr. De La Torre carefully marks the area of the chalazion and injects a small amount of steroid medication directly into the affected gland. This helps reduce inflammation and allows the gland to drain naturally over the following days.
“You might feel a little pressure during the injection,” Dr. De La Torre explains. “But the goal is to reduce the bump quickly and comfortably.”
After the injection, the area is gently massaged to help distribute the medication.
Aftercare & Follow-Up
Following your in-office chalazion treatment, continue daily eyelid massages for one week and apply any prescribed ointments to support healing. Monitor the area for improvement and attend your scheduled follow-up appointment to confirm the chalazion has fully resolved. If any residual bump remains, Dr. De La Torre may recommend a second injection or discuss alternative procedures
Next Steps for Clear, Comfortable Eyes
Usually, a chalazion clears up within a week after the injection and diligent home care. You can get fast relief and prevent future recurrences by combining precise in-office treatment with simple daily eyelid massage and warm compresses. If you’re struggling with a stubborn bump or have questions about eyelid health, schedule a consultation with Dr. De La Torre at Southwest Eye Institute today. Our team is here to help you see—and feel—your best.