Chalazion Excision

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Things you need to know

1.What is ​Chalazion Excision?
2.Why do you need it?
3.Why cost vary in philippines?
4.Surgery cost range by city
5.Surgery Procedure
6.Recovery
7.Risk and complications
8.FAQ
9.Conclusion

What is Chalazion Excision​ ?

.

Why do you need Chalazion Excision​ ?

Chalazion excision is indicated for:

  • Persistent chalazion:
    • A firm, painless lump in the upper or lower eyelid persisting >4–6 weeks.
    • Failed conservative treatment: Warm compresses, eyelid massage, or antibiotic/steroid drops ineffective.
  • Symptomatic chalazion:
    • Cosmetic concern: Visible lump affecting appearance.
    • Pressure symptoms: Discomfort, blurred vision (if pressing on cornea causing astigmatism), or irritation.
    • Recurrent chalazia: Multiple episodes in the same area.
  • Suspicion of malignancy:
    • Rare; if the lump grows rapidly, bleeds, or doesn’t resolve, biopsy may be needed to rule out sebaceous gland carcinoma.

The procedure aims to drain or remove the chalazion, relieve symptoms, and prevent recurrence while minimizing scarring on the eyelid.

Why Do Chalazion Excision​ Costs Vary in Philippines?

.

Chalazion Excision​ Procedure

  • Before Surgery Evaluation:
    • Diagnosis:
      • Clinical exam: Ophthalmologist confirms chalazion by appearance (firm, non-tender lump) and history.
      • Slit-lamp exam: Assesses size, location, and eyelid inflammation.
      • Rule out infection: Distinguishes chalazion (non-infectious) from a stye (infected gland).
      • Blood tests: Rarely needed unless infection or systemic condition (e.g., diabetes) suspected.
    • Medications: Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., erythromycin) if mild inflammation; no blood thinners stopped (minor procedure).
    • Consent: Risks, including recurrence, are explained.
  • Surgical Techniques:
    • Incision and Curettage (I&C):
      • Performed under local anesthesia (lidocaine injection into the eyelid), lasting 10–15 minutes.
      • Outpatient procedure in a minor OT or clinic setting.
      • The eyelid is everted (flipped) using a chalazion clamp to expose the inner surface (conjunctival side).
      • A small incision (2–3 mm) is made over the chalazion on the inner eyelid (avoids visible scarring).
      • The contents (granulomatous tissue, oily material) are scraped out with a curette.
      • No stitches needed; the incision heals naturally.
    • Excision (for larger/recurrent chalazia):
      • Rarely, a full excision through the skin (outer eyelid) is done if the chalazion is large or recurrent.
      • Small stitches (dissolvable) may be used; increases scarring risk.
    • Intraoperative Tools:
      • Chalazion clamp: Stabilizes and everts the eyelid.
      • Curette: Removes chalazion contents.
      • Slit lamp: Enhances visualization.
  • After Surgery:
    • Observation: 15–30 minutes; same-day discharge.
    • Eye care: Antibiotic/steroid ointment (e.g., tobramycin-dexamethasone) for 5–7 days; warm compresses to aid healing.
    • Pain management: Mild discomfort managed with acetaminophen if needed.
    • Instructions: Avoid rubbing the eye, makeup, or water exposure for 1 week.

Recovery After Chalazion Excision

  1. Immediate Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild swelling/redness for 1–2 days.
  2. Post-Surgery Care:
    • Swelling/Bruising: Peaks at 1–2 days, resolves in 5–7 days; cold compresses help.
    • Pain: Mild discomfort or soreness for 1–3 days; managed with acetaminophen.
    • Eye care: Apply antibiotic/steroid ointment 2–3 times daily for 5–7 days; warm compresses 2–3 times daily for 1 week.
    • Activity: Avoid rubbing the eye, makeup, or swimming for 1 week; normal activities (e.g., reading) can resume immediately.
    • Vision: Unaffected unless chalazion caused astigmatism (resolves post-removal).
  3. Follow-Up:
    • Visit at 1 week to check healing; 4 weeks if recurrence suspected.
    • Pathology (rare): If tissue sent for biopsy (e.g., suspected malignancy), results in 5–7 days.

Most resume normal activities within 1–2 days; full recovery takes 1–2 weeks. Success rate: 90–95% resolution with one procedure; 5–10% may recur.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:
    • Bleeding (1–2%): Minor bruising common; rare hematoma may need drainage.
    • Infection (1–2%): Redness, swelling, or discharge; treated with antibiotics.
    • Scarring (<1%): Minimal with conjunctival approach; rare visible scar if skin incision used.
  • Post-Surgery:
    • Recurrence (5–10%): Due to incomplete removal or underlying gland dysfunction (e.g., blepharitis); may need repeat I&C.
    • Eyelid deformity (<1%): Notching or asymmetry if excessive tissue removed; rare with experienced surgeons.
    • Dry eye (1–3%): Temporary; due to altered meibomian gland function; managed with artificial tears.
  • Rare:
    • Malignancy missed (<0.1%): Sebaceous gland carcinoma mimicking chalazion; biopsy needed if suspicious.

Report increased swelling, severe pain, discharge, or vision changes promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes a chalazion?

Blocked meibomian gland, often due to blepharitis, poor eyelid hygiene, or conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.

Can I avoid chalazion excision?

Yes, 50–70% resolve with conservative treatment (warm compresses, eyelid massage, antibiotic/steroid drops) within 4–6 weeks; surgery is for persistent cases.

Is chalazion excision painful?

No, performed under local anesthesia; mild discomfort post-surgery for 1–3 days, managed with medication.

How soon can I resume activities?

Normal activities within 1–2 days; avoid makeup or swimming for 1 week; full recovery in 1–2 weeks.

Is chalazion excision covered by insurance in India?

Yes, often covered under minor surgery/daycare procedures; confirm with your provider.

Signs of complications?

Increased swelling, severe pain, discharge, or vision changes.

Will I have a scar?

Unlikely with conjunctival approach; rare (<1%) with skin incision, and typically minimal.

Lifestyle changes post-surgery?

Maintain good eyelid hygiene (warm compresses, lid scrubs), avoid makeup for 1 week, use prescribed ointments, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Chalazion Excision​

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
Antipolo
Bacolod
Bacoor
Baguio
Butuan
Cagayan de Oro
Caloocan
Cebu City
Dasmariñas
Davao City
General Santos
General Trias
Iligan
Iloilo City
Las Piñas
Makati
Malolos
Manila
Muntinlupa
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Puerto Princesa
Quezon City
San Fernando
San Jose del Monte
Taguig
Valenzuela
Zamboanga City

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

What is Chalazion Excision?

Chalazion excision is a minor surgical procedure to remove a chalazion, a painless, non-infectious lump in the eyelid caused by a blocked meibomian gland. It is performed when conservative treatments fail to resolve the lump. In the Philippines, chalazion excision is conducted in ophthalmology departments at hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, and Philippine General Hospital (PGH), typically as an outpatient procedure at affordable costs. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) is essential for Filipino patients to make informed decisions.

Why Do You Need Chalazion Excision?

Chalazion excision is indicated for:

  • Persistent Chalazion:

    • A firm, painless lump in the upper or lower eyelid persisting >4–6 weeks despite conservative treatment (50–70% resolve without surgery).

    • Failed conservative measures: Warm compresses, eyelid massage, or antibiotic/steroid drops ineffective (30–40% of cases require surgery).

  • Symptomatic Chalazion:

    • Cosmetic Concern: Visible lump affecting appearance (20–30% of patients seek surgery for aesthetics).

    • Pressure Symptoms: Discomfort, blurred vision (if pressing on cornea causing astigmatism, 5–10%), or irritation.

  • Recurrent Chalazia: Multiple episodes in the same gland or area, often linked to underlying conditions like blepharitis (10–15%).

  • Suspicion of Malignancy: Rare (<0.1%); if the lump grows rapidly, bleeds, or doesn’t resolve, biopsy may be needed to rule out sebaceous gland carcinoma.

  • Prevalence in the Philippines: Chalazia are common, affecting ~1–2% of adults, with higher rates in those with poor eyelid hygiene, diabetes, or conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Timing: Performed when conservative treatments fail (4–6 weeks) or symptoms (e.g., vision distortion, cosmetic issues) significantly impact quality of life.

The procedure aims to drain or remove the chalazion, relieve symptoms, and prevent recurrence while minimizing scarring on the eyelid.

Why Do Chalazion Excision Costs Vary in the Philippines?

Costs range from ₱30,000 to ₱100,000, influenced by:

  • Procedure Complexity:

    • Standard incision and curettage (I&C): ₱30,000–₱70,000.

    • Larger or recurrent chalazion requiring full excision: ₱70,000–₱100,000.

  • Hospital/Location: Higher costs in Metro Manila private hospitals (e.g., St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center: ₱50,000–₱100,000); lower in public hospitals like PGH (₱10,000–₱30,000, often subsidized by PhilHealth or PCSO medical assistance).

  • Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced ophthalmologists charge higher fees.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Pre-op consultation and slit-lamp exam: ₱1,500–₱5,000.

    • Medications (e.g., antibiotic/steroid ointment): ₱2,000–₱5,000.

    • Anesthesia (local, typically included): ₱5,000–₱10,000 if separately billed.

    • Pathology (rare, for biopsy if malignancy suspected): ₱5,000–₱15,000.

  • Insurance: PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱5,000–₱15,000) for medically necessary cases (e.g., vision impairment, recurrence); private insurance often covers chalazion excision as a minor surgery or daycare procedure. PCSO medical assistance or charity programs may reduce costs for indigent patients. Confirm with your provider.

Chalazion Excision Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:

  • Diagnosis:

    • Clinical Exam: Ophthalmologist confirms chalazion by appearance (firm, non-tender lump, usually 2–8 mm) and history (80–90% diagnosed clinically).

    • Slit-Lamp Exam: Assesses size, location, and eyelid inflammation; distinguishes chalazion (non-infectious) from a stye (infected gland).

    • History: Evaluates prior treatments (e.g., warm compresses, drops) and recurrence.

    • Blood Tests: Rarely needed unless infection (e.g., cellulitis) or systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes, 5–10% of cases) suspected.

  • Preparation:

    • Medications: Antibiotic eye drops (e.g., erythromycin) or steroid drops (e.g., prednisolone) if mild inflammation; no need to stop blood thinners (minor procedure).

    • Consent: Includes risks like recurrence, infection, or scarring.

    • Fasting: Not required (local anesthesia).

  • Multidisciplinary Team: Primarily involves an ophthalmologist; rarely a pathologist (if biopsy needed).

Surgical Techniques:

  1. Incision and Curettage (I&C, 90–95% of cases):

    • Performed under local anesthesia (lidocaine injection into the eyelid), lasting 10–15 minutes.

    • Outpatient procedure in a minor operating theater or clinic setting.

    • Process:

      • The eyelid is cleaned with antiseptic (e.g., povidone-iodine).

      • A chalazion clamp is used to evert (flip) and stabilize the eyelid, exposing the inner surface (conjunctival side).

      • A small incision (2–3 mm) is made over the chalazion on the conjunctival side (avoids visible scarring).

      • The contents (granulomatous tissue, oily material) are scraped out with a curette.

      • No stitches needed; the incision heals naturally.

    • Tools: Chalazion clamp, curette, scalpel, slit lamp (for visualization).

  2. Full Excision (5–10%):

    • For larger, recurrent, or skin-involving chalazia; performed via external (skin) approach.

    • Local anesthesia; small incision (3–5 mm) on the outer eyelid.

    • Entire chalazion and surrounding tissue removed; dissolvable sutures may be used.

    • Slightly higher risk of visible scarring.

  3. Intraoperative Considerations:

    • Sterile technique to minimize infection risk.

    • Biopsy (rare): Tissue sent for pathology if malignancy suspected (e.g., irregular growth, bleeding).

After Surgery:

  • Observation: 15–30 minutes in clinic; same-day discharge (100% outpatient).

  • Care:

    • Antibiotic/steroid ointment (e.g., tobramycin-dexamethasone) applied 2–3 times daily for 5–7 days to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

    • Warm compresses (10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily) for 1 week to aid healing.

    • Pain management: Mild discomfort managed with oral analgesics (e.g., paracetamol) if needed (50–60% report no pain).

  • Instructions:

    • Avoid rubbing the eye, makeup, contact lenses, or water exposure (e.g., swimming) for 1 week.

    • Protect eye with glasses or shield if needed (e.g., sleeping).

Recovery After Chalazion Excision

  • Immediate Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild swelling or redness for 1–2 days.

  • Post-Surgery Care:

    • Swelling/Bruising: Peaks at 1–2 days, resolves in 5–7 days; cold compresses (10 minutes, 2–3 times daily) for first 48 hours, then warm compresses.

    • Pain: Mild soreness or tenderness for 1–3 days; managed with paracetamol (50–60% need no analgesics).

    • Eye Care: Apply antibiotic/steroid ointment (e.g., tobramycin-dexamethasone) 2–3 times daily for 5–7 days; continue warm compresses to promote drainage and healing.

    • Activity: Resume normal activities (e.g., reading, work) immediately; avoid rubbing the eye, makeup, or swimming for 1 week to prevent irritation or infection.

    • Vision: Unaffected unless chalazion caused astigmatism (resolves post-removal, 5–10% of cases).

  • Follow-Up:

    • Visit at 1 week to check healing; 4 weeks if recurrence or complications suspected.

    • Pathology results (if biopsy performed): 5–7 days; urgent if malignancy suspected.

  • Recovery timeline: Most resume normal activities within 1–2 days; full recovery (no swelling) takes 1–2 weeks. Success rate: 90–95% resolution with one procedure; 5–10% may recur, especially with underlying blepharitis.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:

    • Bleeding (1–2%): Minor bruising or eyelid hematoma; usually resolves naturally; rare severe bleeding may need drainage (<0.5%).

    • Infection (1–2%): Redness, swelling, or discharge at incision site; treated with oral or topical antibiotics.

    • Scarring (<1%): Minimal with conjunctival approach; rare visible scar with external incision, usually fades in months.

  • Post-Surgery:

    • Recurrence (5–10%): Due to incomplete removal, persistent gland dysfunction, or underlying blepharitis; may need repeat I&C or excision.

    • Eyelid Deformity (<1%): Notching or asymmetry if excessive tissue removed; rare with experienced surgeons.

    • Dry Eye (1–3%): Temporary; due to altered meibomian gland function; managed with artificial tears (e.g., carboxymethylcellulose).

  • Rare Complications:

    • Missed Malignancy (<0.1%): Sebaceous gland carcinoma mimicking chalazion; biopsy needed if rapid growth, bleeding, or recurrence.

    • Corneal Abrasion (<1%): From clamp or surgical manipulation; causes temporary discomfort, treated with antibiotic drops.

  • Report increased swelling, severe pain, discharge, vision changes, or persistent lump promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes a chalazion?
Blocked meibomian gland, often due to blepharitis, poor eyelid hygiene, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or diabetes (5–10% of cases).

Can I avoid chalazion excision?
Yes, 50–70% resolve with conservative treatment (warm compresses, eyelid massage, antibiotic/steroid drops) within 4–6 weeks; surgery is needed for persistent or symptomatic cases.

Is chalazion excision painful?
No, performed under local anesthesia; mild discomfort or soreness for 1–3 days post-surgery, managed with paracetamol.

How soon can I resume activities?
Normal activities (e.g., reading, work) within 1–2 days; avoid makeup, contact lenses, or swimming for 1 week; full recovery in 1–2 weeks.

Is chalazion excision covered by insurance in the Philippines?
PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱5,000–₱15,000) for medically necessary cases (e.g., vision impairment, recurrence); private insurance often covers as a minor surgery or daycare procedure. PCSO assistance may apply. Confirm with your provider.

What are the signs of complications post-procedure?
Increased swelling, severe pain, discharge, vision changes, or persistent lump require immediate medical attention.

Will I have a scar?
Unlikely with conjunctival approach (95% of cases); rare (<1%) with external incision, typically minimal and fades over months.

What lifestyle changes are needed post-procedure?
Maintain good eyelid hygiene (warm compresses, lid scrubs), avoid makeup/contact lenses for 1 week, use prescribed ointments, and attend follow-ups to prevent recurrence.

Conclusion

Chalazion excision is a safe, quick, and effective procedure to remove a persistent chalazion, with minimal downtime and a high success rate (90–95% resolution). The Philippines’ top hospitals (St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center, PGH) provide quality care at costs ranging from ₱30,000 to ₱100,000, often partially covered by PhilHealth or private insurance for medically necessary cases. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and FAQs empowers patients to approach surgery confidently. For a persistent eyelid lump or symptoms like irritation or blurred vision, consult a board-certified ophthalmologist for personalized guidance and optimal outcomes.

Looking for Best Hospitals for Chalazion Excision

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
10,000
50,000
Antipolo
10,000
50,000
Bacolod
10,000
50,000
Bacoor
10,000
40,000
Baguio
10,000
50,000
Butuan
10,000
40,000
Cagayan de Oro
10,000
50,000
Caloocan
10,000
40,000
Cebu City
15,000
60,000
Dasmariñas
10,000
40,000
Davao City
15,000
60,000
General Santos
10,000
50,000
General Trias
10,000
40,000
Iligan
10,000
50,000
Iloilo City
10,000
50,000
Las Piñas
10,000
50,000
Makati
15,000
60,000
Malolos
10,000
40,000
Manila
15,000
60,000
Muntinlupa
10,000
50,000
Parañaque
10,000
50,000
Pasay
10,000
50,000
Pasig
60,000
60,000
Puerto Princesa
10,000
50,000
Quezon City
15,000
60,000
San Fernando
10,000
40,000
San Jose del Monte
10,000
40,000
Taguig
15,000
60,000
Valenzuela
10,000
40,000
Zamboanga City
10,000
50,000

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

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