Most people are familiar with the term “stye” but are often left scratching their heads when it comes to a “chalazion”. While it may be difficult to differentiate the two, they are in fact quite different. Whereas a stye is painful and appears at the eyelids edge, a chalazion usually comes with no pain and develops further back. If a chalazion goes untreated, there is a possibility it will grow very large and even affect your vision, causing you to need chalazion removal surgery.
In this article, we’re going to discuss the average cost of chalazion surgery, as well as some helpful tips to avoid it developing.
What is a chalazion and why should I remove it?
A chalazion is a small bump or cyst that develops on the eyelid. The redness and swelling are caused by a blockage in the glands that produce oil. After some time, it can result in a visible lump.
If you’re lucky, it will often go away within two to eight weeks. But if you’ve found yourself struggling to get rid for several months, you may find it’s started to interfere with your vision. If left untreated, it can also cause infections and all-around discomfort. This is when your doctor will probably recommend surgical removal.
The cost of chalazion removal surgery
The good news about chalazion surgery is it’s not considered major surgery. It does involve anesthesia that only affects your eye area. The whole process takes around 45 minutes, and since you’ll be sleeping throughout, it’ll be completely pain-free. You’ll be able to go home the same day!
The cost of the chalazion surgery varies greatly depending on a few factors: the state in which the surgery takes place, the medical facility, the skills of your doctor, and whether or not you have insurance. That being said, chalazion surgery could cost anywhere from $100 - $1,000. The price will be much more affordable if you have help from your insurance coverage.
Make sure you keep in mind the additional costs you may face, for things such as a consultation with a dermatology specialist or eye surgeon before having the procedure. Without insurance, the average consultation cost can range from $65 - $110 per visit.
How to Avoid Chalazion Surgery
Of course, instead of worrying about surgery, we’d much rather just prevent it from getting to that point in the first place. There are a couple of things you can do to help get treat your chalazion:
(DO NOT squeeze or try to pop a chalazion)
Antibiotics
During the early ages when a chalazion first develops, you’ll be left with a very swollen and inflamed eyelid. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are a good way to help reduce the swelling and treat the infection. Once the redness and soreness have been reduced, you’ll be left with a bump or cyst. This can be treated with heat.
Warm compress
A warm compress does wonders for a chalazion. It helps to open up the clogged oil gland and drain the blockage. You can do this by soaking a washcloth in hot water, holding it for 10-15 minutes on your eyelid. You should do this 3-5 times a day.
If you’re looking for a more quick and effective way to apply heat to your chalazion, you could always try our Moist Heated Eye Mask. Ticlo’s eye mask is a great alternative! Providing twice the hydration, it allows you to have a soothing and hydrating experience, as well as reaping the effects of the built-in heat compress. It’s super easy to use. Just pop it in the microwave for a minute and find a nice spot to relax.
Relaxation and treatment rolled into one!
The bottom line
If you’re struggling with a chalazion and have found it doesn’t go away on its own, you may be recommended chalazion removal surgery. It’s a relatively quick, safe procedure.
To avoid getting to that stage, take some antibiotics, or try a heat press. Avoid things like wearing makeup, touching or rubbing your eyes, and wearing contact lenses.
And remember, never ever try to pop a chalazion, as tempting as it may be!