Chalazion & Hordeolum Queens & Nassau County

If your child has a tender red bump on their eyelid, it’s often a stye (hordeolum) or a chalazion. Most are harmless and short-lived, but if it doesn’t go away, Dr. Lichtenstein can evaluate and treat it.

What Causes Eyelid Bumps?

Each eyelash is connected to its own oil gland, and each eyelid contains about 25 additional specialized oil glands called Meibomian glands. The oil they produce is vital for a healthy tear film. Sometimes, the oil becomes too thick, the gland gets blocked, and oil seeps into the eyelid. Although this oil is sterile, the immune system treats it as foreign. This reaction is not an infection but rather a sterile inflammation caused by oil in the wrong place.

What’s the Difference Between a Stye and a Chalazion?

Both hordeola and chalazia are essentially a “pimple” in the lid, but here’s how they’re different:

Hordeolum (Stye)

When the gland linked to an eyelash becomes blocked, it results in a hordeolum, or stye. These are usually red, swollen, and tender, and they can sometimes become secondarily infected with bacteria.

Chalazion

A chalazion develops when a Meibomian gland becomes clogged. It tends to grow larger than styes but is usually painless.

We Try Conservative Treatment First

Because styes and chalazia are sterile inflammations, antibiotics usually aren’t needed. The first-line treatment is frequent hot compresses, which liquefy the oil and may allow the gland to open and drain.

A steroid drop may be prescribed to reduce inflammation in styes. If there are signs of bacterial infection, a steroid/antibiotic combination drop will be used.

Dr. Lichtenstein is a phenomenal doctor. He is attentive, caring, and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you!

Dominique Encarnacion

Tips for Applying Hot Compresses

One simple method is to heat a potato and wrap it in a damp towel. You can also use pharmacy-sold hot/cold packs or bead packs, which hold heat longer than a standard hot towel.

Generally, hot compresses should be applied three to four times a day for five minutes, for one to two weeks. Applying a thin layer of Vaseline twice daily can help if the eyelid skin becomes dry. Sometimes, the skin will open and the lesion will drain; this usually heals well.

What If It Doesn’t Go Away?

Even without treatment, many styes and chalazia resolve on their own over months or years. They pose no threat to the eye or vision, so leaving them alone is a reasonable choice. However, if the lesion is bothersome, other treatment options are available. Dr. Lichtenstein specializes in pediatric chalazion treatment in Queens and Nassau County.

In-Office Steroid Injections

For cooperative children, typically over age nine, who have had a chalazion or stye for less than two months, a steroid can be injected directly into the eyelid in the office. While generally safe and often effective, results are not guaranteed.

The main risk, though uncommon, is skin depigmentation (a white spot) at the injection site. This is rare but can be permanent, and the contrast is more noticeable in darker skin tones.

Schedule a Consultation

Surgical Drainage for Younger Children Infant Chalazion Surgery in Queens & Nassau County

Surgery is another option for removal. In younger children—and many teens—this is done in an operating room under general anesthesia, lasting only a few minutes. While the child is asleep, a small incision is made in the eyelid to drain the oil and inflammation.

Whenever possible, the incision is made on the inside of the lid. If the lesion has thinned the eyelid skin, it may break down during surgery. This usually heals on its own, though occasionally a stitch is needed.

Trusted by Pediatricians, Chosen by Families

We’re proud to be the pediatric eye specialist that local doctors trust with their own patients—and sometimes their own children. Parents in Queens and Nassau County recommend us because they know what to expect: advanced care, thoughtful guidance, and a team that truly listens.

We Bring Surgical-Grade Expertise to Every Visit

Dr. Lichtenstein has been caring for children’s eyes since 1999. With over 25 years of experience—and a sense of humor that’s only improved with age—he offers the kind of expert, compassionate care that families across the tri-state area trust.

We Make Kids Feel Comfortable (Really)

Dr. Lichtenstein knows how to connect with kids. He uses silly voices, songs, and props to keep little ones engaged—and understands that older kids appreciate a little more chill. Whatever their age, he meets them where they are.

We Believe in Straight Talk and Honest Plans

Dr. Lichtenstein believes in explaining things in plain language, whether he’s talking to a curious 7-year-old or a concerned parent. He’ll walk you through the diagnosis, share his treatment plan, and answer every question, so you always know what’s happening and why.

FAQ Chalazion & Hordeolum

What are the risks of surgery?

There are usually no complications, but every surgery has potential risks. The risks of this surgery are infection, recurrence of the chalazion (or stye), leaving behind some of the chalazion wall, and minor bleeding. There is also the risk of the steroid leaving a small white mark (as with the office option). The likelihood of vision loss is near zero, but any surgery on or near the eye carries this risk.

Do eyelid bumps mean poor hygiene?

Not at all. These bumps are usually caused by clogged oil glands, not dirt. Even kids with excellent hygiene can get them.

Can my child still go to school with a stye?

Yes. Unless there’s significant discharge or discomfort, styes are not a reason to stay home from school.

Can screen time make eyelid bumps worse?

Nope. Come up with a better way to scare your kid to get off the screen. How about, 'Too much screen time may increase your changes of accelerated axial elongation with secondary high myopia.' If they understand what you are saying, they are actually learning something from the screen

Trust Your Child’s Eyes to an Expert

Our goal isn’t just to treat the bump—it’s to make your child’s visit as comfortable as possible. From toddlers to teens, we meet kids where they are and guide them gently through each step. You’ll never feel rushed—just supported.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re unsure what’s going on with your child’s eyelid—or if that bump isn’t getting better—give us a call to schedule a visit. Dr. Lichtenstein can evaluate your child’s chalazion or hordeolum for treatment in Queens and Nassau County.