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Incision and Curettage on a Left Upper Eyelid Chalazion

Lilit Arzumanian, MD1; Alexander Martin, OD2; John Lee, MD2
1Vardanants Center for Innovative Medicine
2Boston Vision

1. Preoperative Steps

  1. Anesthesia with a local injection of 2% lidocaine and epinephrine.
  2. Prepping and draping.

2. Surgery

  1. The chalazion clamp is placed with the open side facing posteriorly.
  2. Eversion of the eyelid.
  3. A vertical incision is made with a number 11 blade.
  4. A curette is introduced through the incision site, and the contents of the chalazion are removed.
  5. After the cavity is emptied, the clamp is removed and the lid is reverted.
  6. Pressure is applied over the eyelid.

3. Postoperative Care

  1. Obtain homeostasis via application of pressure. Some surgeons prefer cautery.
  2. Place topical antibiotic ointment.
  3. Artificial tears for lubrication as needed.
  4. Follow-up within 1–2 weeks for postoperative evaluation.