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Eyelid cyst removal

Upper or lower eyelid lumps filled with fluid are quite common. It is normal for these cysts to disappear on their own. Pain, redness, and swelling may occur when the cyst becomes infected.

Initially, your GP may suggest conservative treatment, such as holding a warm flannel over your closed eye for five minutes several times per day. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to ease the infection.

It is possible that you will be referred to a specialist consultant for removal if conservative treatment fails.

What happens during eyelid cyst removal?

Cysts on the eyelids are usually removed using local anaesthesia in about 20 minutes. In and around your eye, your surgeon will numb the area. They will turn your eyelid inside out and then cut or scrape the cyst away using tiny instruments. They will wash the area with a saline (salt) solution.

Eyelid cyst removal is usually performed as a day case meaning you can go home the day of the procedure.

Going home after eyelid cyst removal

Please arrange for someone to take you home after your surgery as you will not be able to drive. You will be given antibiotic eye drops or creams to use regularly in the weeks following your surgery. You may need to wear an eye patch for the first night.

Your eyelid may be swollen, bruised and a bit sore. Ice packs wrapped in a cotton towel will help this settle. You can take over-the-counter pain medication such as Paracetamol if needed. Avoid swimming until you are released to do so.

You can discuss any of the above and when to return to work with your consultant.

Most people make a quick recovery after eyelid cyst removal. As with any surgical procedure, there could be complications including:

  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Infection
  • Swelling

Specific complications of eyelid cyst removal may include:

  • The cyst returns
  • Allergy to medications used
  • Damage to the eye (extremely rare)

You may be covered by private medical insurance, or you may wish to consider spreading the cost of your surgery by opting for a monthly payment plan.

We aim to make our costs as transparent as possible, but it’s important to talk everything through in detail with your consultant at the time of your appointment. Some costs may be paid directly to the hospital, while others, such as your consultant fees, may be paid directly to the consultant.

Issues affecting your eyesight will understandably cause concern, which is why we aim to make sure our patients can see a consultant ophthalmologist as quickly as possible.

With investment in the latest scans and tests, Sulis Hospital provides an excellent environment for eye patients. Our consultant ophthalmologists are highly experienced and regarded, providing the reassurance you get from speaking to a specialist. Get in touch today to book your appointment.

Treatment Overview

Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.

  • Type of anaesthetic local

  • Average procedure duration 20 minutes

  • Covered by health insurance? Yes

  • Can I pay privately? Yes

You’re in safe hands at Sulis Hospital.

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