Minor Procedures
Chalazion
A chalazion is an enlarged, blocked oil gland in the eyelid that appears as a small bump, similar to a stye. In fact, it mimics a stye for the first few days, and then turns into a painless hard, round bump later.
Chalazia can linger from a few weeks to several months. In the early stages, drops and heat packs may be helpful. In chronic cases, the chalazia can be removed by a simple in-office procedure in which Dr. Auker may drain it or inject a steroid to facilitate healing.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids, involving the area of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow. It’s a common disorder and occurs when the small oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become infected.
Often a chronic condition, blepharitis can affect the outside of the eyelid where the eyelashes are attached, which is also known as anterior blepharitis. When it affects the inner eyelid, it is called posterior blepharitis. Some common causes of blepharitis are bacteria, rosacea and scalp dandruff.
Symptoms include red or watery eyes, itchy eyelids, red and swollen eyelids, a burning sensation, crusted eyelashes in the morning and loss of eyelashes.
Good hygiene is the best treatment for blepharitis. If your condition doesn’t improve, you may be prescribed an antibiotic crème/ointment.
Pinguecula
Pinguecula is a yellowish or white lump that forms on the surface tissue of the white part of your eye. Pinguecula never grows on the cornea and is composed of benign material.
Pinguecula is typically caused by dryness and exposure to the environment. It is found more common in middle-aged or older people who spend significantly amounts of time in the sun. Drops can be used to lessen the irritation and redness. Surgical treatment is rarely required, at times may be cosmetically necessary.
The best way to prevent pinguecula is to avoid dry and dusty conditions and to wear sunglasses.
Styes
A stye appears around the root of an eyelash when a gland becomes infected. Resembling a pimple on the eyelid, the infection can make the immediate area swollen, and at times the entire eyelid wells. The infection clears up once the eyelash is removed.
With a stye, you may experience excessive watering of the affected eye and increased light sensitivity. Styes are not harmful to vision.
