Upper Lid Chalazion
Common benign eyelid cysts and lesions include chalazions (blocked oil gland cysts), cysts of Moll/Zeiss (blocked sweat gland cysts), sebaceous cysts, warts and xanthelasma (cholesterol deposits). Eyelids can also develop skin cancers, often presenting as hard irregular lumps which may itch and bleed. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine between a benign cyst and a skin cancer, so a biopsy may be required.
Eyelid cysts are caused when the opening to any gland becomes blocked. The product of the gland (eg sweat from sweat glands) builds up forming a cyst. Generally, unprotected sun exposure is the underlying cause of skin cancer formation.
Most benign cysts and lumps are removed for cosmetic reasons as they can look unsightly. Occasionally large cysts can cause watering or an abnormal lid position. Some lesions can itch, bleed or damage the eyelid.
Taking out the contents of a meibomian cyst
Taking the top of a cyst of Moll or Zeiss
Removing a lesion
Removing a lesion and sending it all for biopsy
Removing part of a lesion and sending it for biopsy
