What is the recommended treatment for a chalazion (hordeolum internum)?

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Last updated: March 3, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

The recommended treatment for a chalazion typically begins with warm compresses applied to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, 4-6 times daily, as this approach has been shown to be effective in resolving chalazia, with a resolution rate of 46% as reported in a study published in the Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology journal 1.

Initial Treatment

  • Warm compresses: applied to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, 4-6 times daily, to soften the blocked oil and promote drainage
  • Gentle massage: of the eyelid after applying warm compresses to help express the contents of the chalazion
  • Good eyelid hygiene: including cleaning the eyelid margins with diluted baby shampoo or commercial eyelid cleansers

Persistent or Large Chalazions

  • Antibiotic-steroid combination eye drops or ointments: such as tobramycin/dexamethasone, applied 2-4 times daily for 1-2 weeks
  • Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections: have been shown to be effective in treating chalazia, with a resolution rate of 84% as reported in a study published in the Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology journal 1
  • Incision and curettage: may be necessary if conservative measures fail after 4-6 weeks, or if the chalazion is large and causing visual disturbance, with a resolution rate of 87% as reported in a study published in the Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology journal 1

Additional Considerations

  • Subclinical hypothyroidism: may predispose to recurrent chalazia, as reported in a case study published in the Case Reports in Ophthalmology journal 2
  • Chalazion treatment outcomes: have been compared in various studies, including a review of clinical trials published in the Current Eye Research journal 3 and an interventional study published in the Nepalese Journal of Ophthalmology 4

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.