Chalazion

Chalazion is a small, usually painless, lump or swelling that appears on the eyelid. A blocked Meibomian or oil gland causes this condition. It can develop on the upper or lower eyelid, and may disappear without treatment.

A chalazion is sometimes confused with an internal or external stye. An internal stye is an infection of a Meibomian gland. An external stye is an infection in the area of the eyelash follicle and sweat gland. Styes are usually painful and chalazia usually aren’t.

A chalazion will often develop over a much longer period of time, usually under the skin of the eyelid rather than on the edge. It will feel a bit firmer too, and often won’t hurt.

However, in rare cases, if it’s caused by an infection, the lump may look red and can feel quite painful.