Causes of eye cysts and treatment methods

A sebaceous cyst in the eye is one of the most common skin problems affecting the eye area, and it is usually a non-dangerous tumor that forms as a result of the accumulation of fat under the skin in the upper or lower eyelid. In this article, we will review through the Dalili Medical website the most important causes of the appearance of a sebaceous cyst in the eye, in addition to its symptoms and available treatment methods to get rid of it. We will also discuss the difference between a sebaceous cyst and a tumor, and the importance of consulting a doctor for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of this skin problem.

**How ​​a sebaceous cyst is formed**

A sebaceous cyst is formed as a result of the blockage of the sebaceous glands in the upper and lower eyelids, which secrete an important oily substance to facilitate the movement of the eyelid. The openings of these glands are located between the roots of the eyelashes, and when they are blocked, the oily substance collects to form a sebaceous cyst. If this coincides with microbial contamination, the cyst may turn into an inflamed sebaceous cyst accompanied by pus, which may lead to inflammation of the entire eyelid with a feeling of pain. The cyst may recur after its treatment, in which case it is a new cyst and not the same cyst that was treated.

**What is a sebaceous cyst in the eye?**

A sebaceous cyst in the eye, also known as a "chalazion", is a small lump that forms in the eyelid as a result of a blockage in one of the oil glands known as the Meibomian glands, which causes the oil to accumulate and not drain. The sebaceous cyst is usually painless and disappears on its own within a few weeks. The sebaceous cyst is most common among adults between the ages of 30 and 50, and it may affect one or both eyes.

**When is a sebaceous cyst removed?**

A sebaceous cyst is usually treated with home remedies, and medications may sometimes be used. However, the doctor may resort to surgery in some cases, such as:
- The cyst does not respond to other treatments.
- The cyst affects the clarity of vision due to its size or location.
- Recurring cyst infections.
- The cyst is infected with a severe infection that does not respond to antibiotics.

**When does a sebaceous cyst disappear?**

In many cases, the cyst may disappear on its own within a period ranging from 3 to 8 weeks. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to visit a specialist doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

**Types of sebaceous cyst in the eye**

Different types of sebaceous cysts can form in the eye, the most common of which are:
- A sebaceous cyst in the eyelid, known as a "chalazia", ​​which is a small, painless ball of fat.
- A sebaceous cyst inside the eye, which may appear on the sclera as a small yellow ball. These lesions are known as "pinguecula" and are benign and common. They usually disappear on their own, but can be surgically removed if they cause discomfort.

**Does a sebaceous cyst affect the level of vision?**

A sebaceous cyst may affect visual acuity, leading to blurred vision if it increases in size and presses on the eyeball. Other symptoms may also appear, such as:
- A small bump in the affected eyelid that increases in size over time.
- Blepharitis and swelling.
- Redness of the sebaceous cyst.
- Increased tear secretion.
- Mild or severe pain when touching the cyst.

**Does the sebaceous cyst return after treatment?**

The sebaceous cyst may appear again after its removal if it is exposed to the same previous causes, and this can be reduced by keeping the eyelids clean.

**Why do these sebaceous cysts form?**

The Meibomian glands are located on the edge of the eyelids, and they are responsible for producing natural oils that help maintain the moisture of the eye surface. Inflammation or blockage of one of these glands can lead to the accumulation of fat inside the eyelid, resulting in the formation of a sebaceous cyst. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the eyelids clean to avoid blockage of the glands and prevent the formation of sebaceous cysts.

**Is the removal of the sebaceous cyst in the eye dangerous?**

Although the removal of the sebaceous cyst in the eyelid is considered a safe surgery with low risks, some complications may occur in some cases, such as:

- Bleeding after surgery.
- Infection of the wound.
- Loss of eyelashes in the wound area.
- Drooping eyelid.
- A scar is formed in cases where the surgical incision is made from the outer side of the eyelid.

It is advisable to see a doctor if any of the following symptoms appear during the recovery period:

- Continued redness and swelling of the eye.
- Pain does not improve despite taking painkillers.
- Yellow secretions coming out of the wound.
- High body temperature.
- Vision problems.

**What does a cyst in the eye look like?**

A cyst in the eye is a small collection that forms under the skin in the eyelid, and is characterized by its unique appearance that can be described as follows:

- The cyst is usually round or oval in shape, and its diameter may range from a few millimeters to several centimeters, depending on the size of the cyst.
- The cyst can appear as a small collection close to the surface of the skin, or it may be slightly deeper.
- As for the color, the cyst may match the color of the surrounding skin, as it is transparent or light pink. However, its color may vary slightly depending on the individual's skin tone, and may sometimes be close to white or yellow.

- A sebaceous cyst may appear transparent if it is filled with fatty fluid, or it may be more solid if it contains a mixture of fat and other tissues.

A sebaceous cyst in the eye can be described as a small protrusion or soft mass that appears in the eyelid, and is often limited to a specific area without extending to other parts of the face. This unique shape makes it easy to recognize, which facilitates its diagnosis and effective treatment.

**Surgical removal of the sebaceous cyst in the eye**

In some cases, a sebaceous cyst in the eye can be treated surgically if it is causing bothersome symptoms or if it is aesthetically undesirable. There are several surgical procedures that can be used to remove a sebaceous cyst, including:

- **Complete cyst excision**: This procedure involves cutting the skin and removing the entire cyst, including the sebaceous glands

The cause of the cyst, if present. The wound is often closed with sutures after the cyst is removed.
- **Laser fusion**: A laser can be used to precisely break down and destroy the cyst, making it easier for the surgeon to remove. Laser fusion can also help reduce scarring after surgery.
- **Mini-skin incision**: In cases of small cysts, it may be possible to make a small skin incision, where the cyst is removed through small incisions in the skin without the need for large incisions.

**What is the difference between a cyst and a stye?**

It can be difficult for some people to distinguish between a cyst and a stye (hairline), but there are several key differences between them, including:

- **Location of appearance**: A stye usually appears on the edge of the eyelid at the base of the eyelashes, while a cyst is behind the eyelashes deep in the eyelid.
- **Presence of infection**: A stye is caused by a bacterial infection in the eyelash follicle or sebaceous gland, while a cyst occurs as a result of a blocked sebaceous gland without infection.
- **Presence of pain**: A stye is accompanied by severe pain, while a cyst is often painless.

**Removing a cyst in the eye using heat:**

Topical heat is a non-surgical method that may help relieve the swelling and irritation associated with a cyst in the eye. Heat can be applied in several ways, including:

- **Warm compresses:** Warm compresses can be placed on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. This helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, which helps reduce swelling and relieve pain.

- **Hot bottles:** Bottles filled with hot water can be used as an alternative to warm compresses, by placing them on the affected area for a few minutes.

- **Hot towels:** A small towel can be wet with hot water and gently pressed on the affected area for a short period.

Heat should be avoided excessively or for long periods, and it is preferable to consult a doctor before using topical heat, especially if there are other symptoms or health conditions that may be affected by this. You should also be careful not to heat the water to very high temperatures to avoid skin burns.

**Causes of the appearance of a cyst in the eye:**

There are many factors that may lead to the appearance of a cyst in the eye, as the cyst is formed as a result of the blockage of the oil gland in the eyelid, which works to maintain the moisture of the eye. The oil accumulates in the gland until it swells. Other reasons that may lead to the appearance of a cyst in the eye include:

- **Accumulation of excess fat:** Abnormal proliferation of fat cells may occur in the eyelid area, leading to the formation of a cyst.

- **Genetic factors:** Genetic factors play a role in the appearance of a cyst, as some people may have a genetic tendency to form fatty tumors.

- **Hormonal changes:** Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, can affect the formation of a cyst.

- **Stress and tension:** It is believed that psychological stress may contribute to the appearance of a cyst, although this has not been fully confirmed by studies.

- **Changes in the sebaceous glands:** Changes in the activity of the sebaceous glands in the eyelid area may occur, increasing the likelihood of cyst formation.

- **Other factors:** Other factors include frequent exposure to sunlight, smoking, taking certain medications, chronic blepharitis, seborrheic dermatitis, viral infections, and rosacea.

Environmental factors such as pollution and the use of cosmetics with oily ingredients can contribute to the likelihood of developing a sebaceous cyst. Some health conditions may also be associated with the formation of sebaceous cysts, such as thyroid disorders.

The causes of sebaceous cysts in the eye vary from person to person, and accurately identifying these factors may affect treatment and prevention.

**Removing sebaceous cysts in the eye using chemicals:**

If necessary, chemicals can be used to treat sebaceous cysts in the eye. This treatment involves injecting appropriate chemicals into the cyst to help reduce its size or remove it completely. Among the chemicals that can be used are:

- **Corticosteroids:** These are used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area.

- **Corticosteroids:** are used to reduce inflammation and swelling and prevent the cyst from returning.

- **Local anesthetics:** are used to numb the area surrounding the cyst before the injection is performed.

Chemical treatment is usually performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. This step should be done carefully and under the supervision of a qualified doctor, as the condition is accurately evaluated and the most appropriate and safest treatment for the patient is determined.

**Diagnosis of sebaceous cyst in the eye**

Here are the ways to diagnose sebaceous cyst in the eye:

1. **Medical history**: You should provide your doctor with your complete medical history, as this information can help determine the main cause behind the appearance of the sebaceous cyst.

2. **External eye examination**: The doctor will examine your eye, eyelid, eyelashes and skin texture.

3. **A careful examination of the eyelid**: The doctor will use a bright light and a magnifying tool to examine your eyelashes and sebaceous gland openings.

**Treatment of sebaceous cyst in the eye without surgery**

Sebaceous cysts usually respond to home treatment, which involves trying to drain the blocked sebaceous gland naturally without the need for surgery. Home treatments include the following:

- **Warm compresses**: Warm compresses play an important role in treating sebaceous cysts, as heat helps open the sebaceous gland blockage and soften the trapped oil. Warm compresses are applied to the affected eye as follows:
- Soak a cotton towel or piece of cotton in warm water (about 45 degrees Celsius) while avoiding excessive heat.
- Wring the towel or cotton to get rid of excess water.
- Close the eye and place the compress on the eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Re-warm the compress when it cools.
- Repeat the process 4 to 6 times daily to get the result 

Effective results.

Tea bags can also be used as warm compresses, as they have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Steps for using tea include:
- Soak the tea bag in boiling water for a minute or use used bags.
- Squeeze the bag and wait until it becomes warm.
- Close the eye and apply the bag to the eyelid.
- Keep the bag on the eye for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Repeat the process several times daily.

- **Guava leaves**: Guava leaves are an effective way to treat sebaceous cysts thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties. They can be used alongside warm compresses to reduce swelling:
- Wash fresh guava leaves well.
- Place a leaf on the eyelid and then cover it with a cloth soaked in warm water, or grind the leaves to extract the juice and place it on the affected eyelid.
- Repeat the process several times daily.

- **Gently massage**: After using warm compresses, the affected eyelid can be gently massaged to help drain the oil and get rid of the cyst. It is recommended to follow the following steps:
- Wash your hands well.

- Gently massage the eyelid and cyst area with your finger towards the eyelashes. 
- Continue massaging for several minutes. 
- Repeat the process several times daily.

- **Cleaning the eyelids**: Cleaning the eyelids twice daily is an essential part of treating the sebaceous cyst and preventing infection. This can be done by:
- Prepare a solution to wash the eyelids by adding a few drops of baby shampoo to a cup of warm water. 
- Soak a cotton ball in the solution and then squeeze it. 
- Clean the eyelids by wiping them with the cotton ball from the inner corner to the outer corner several times, changing the cotton ball with each wipe.

The eye area should be kept clean and avoid rubbing it, and do not use eye makeup or contact lenses until the sebaceous cyst is completely healed.

**Treatment of sebaceous cyst in the eye with medications**

In some cases, sebaceous cyst in the eye may require medication if home remedies do not work. Medications used to treat sebaceous cyst in the eye include the following:

**Antibiotics**: Cases of sebaceous cyst in the eye usually do not require the use of antibiotics, whether topical or oral. However, antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases where a bacterial infection occurs, causing the cyst to turn into a stye (hairline). Topical antibiotics are used in the form of drops or ointments to treat the infection, such as:
- Tobramycin
- Doxycycline

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics, such as:
- Azithromycin
- Erythromycin

**Steroids**: Steroid injections into the cyst are a non-surgical treatment method, and are used in cases of:
- A large cyst with severe swelling in the eyelid that does not respond to other treatments.
- Chronic cysts.
- Cysts close to the tear duct.
- The presence of several cysts at the same time.

A steroid medication, such as triamcinolone, is injected directly into the cyst under local anesthesia using numbing eye drops, and some people may need repeated injections.

**Eye cyst treatment**:

The eye cyst usually goes away on its own within a few weeks to a month, or it may require simple medical treatment, which includes:

- **Warm compresses**: Apply warm compresses to the eyelid for ten to fifteen minutes, four to six times a day for several days. Warm compresses help soften the hardened fat that blocks the ducts, allowing drainage and healing. You can apply the compress by soaking a soft, clean cloth in warm water and then squeezing it out.

- **Eye massage**: Gently massage the outer eyelids of the eye affected by the cyst for several minutes a day to help facilitate the drainage of the fat.

- **Medication treatment**: Your doctor may recommend using medicated drops or ointments to drain the cyst. If these treatments don't work, he may prescribe medications or steroid injections to help resolve the problem.

- **Surgery**: If other treatments don't work, your doctor may perform surgery to drain the cyst. It should be noted that cysts can recur even after surgery, so your doctor may need to take a biopsy of the cyst, which involves removing a small sample of tissue to examine it for signs of more serious conditions.

**Tips to speed up the healing of an eye cyst**

Here are some important tips that can help you drain a cyst from your eye and prevent it from recurring:

1. Keep your eye area clean and avoid touching it with your hands.

2. Do not try to squeeze or pop the cyst, as this may worsen the problem.

3. Wash your hands well before touching your eyes or removing contact lenses.

4. Wash your face well before bed to remove dirt and makeup.

**Preparations before the eye cyst removal surgery**

The patient must inform the doctor of any medications, nutritional supplements, or herbs he is taking, in addition to any health problems such as sleep apnea. The eye cyst removal surgery also requires some simple preparations, such as:

- Stop smoking before surgery.
- Avoid eating the night before the surgery if it will be performed under general anesthesia.
- Do not use cosmetics or wear contact lenses on the day of the surgery.

**How ​​to perform the eye cyst removal surgery**

The eye cyst removal surgery is performed in the hospital or outpatient clinic under local or general anesthesia. The steps of the surgery include the following:

1. Giving general anesthesia or local eyelid anesthesia.
2. Flipping the eyelid so that its lining is exposed and securing it with a clip.
3. Making a small incision in the eyelid cyst from the inside of the eyelid in the case of a small cyst, then scraping it to drain the oils. If the cyst is large, the doctor makes an incision in the outer eyelid to drain it.
4. Close the wound with absorbable suture. 

If the incision is made from the outside, while the internal incision does not require stitches.

5. Apply antibiotic ointment to the eye and a bandage to prevent infection.

If the cyst recurs, the doctor may take a tissue biopsy to examine it in the laboratory to rule out malignant tumors that may resemble the cyst.

**Removal of the cyst from the eye with a laser**

The cyst removal procedure can also be performed using a carbon laser (CO2 Laser), where the incision is made with a laser and the cyst is drained. This method is characterized by its accuracy, less bleeding, and quick wound healing.

**Duration of the cyst removal procedure**

The cyst removal procedure usually takes about 20 minutes, but the preparation and anesthesia procedures may make the total time of the procedure up to 45 minutes.

**After the cyst removal procedure**

The person can usually return home immediately after the surgery and resume their daily activities, especially if the procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Some side effects may appear as a normal part of the recovery process, such as:

- Feeling pain or discomfort in the eyelid.
- Swelling of the eyelid for several days after surgery.
- Bruising around the eye.
- Light leakage of red fluid from the wound site for a few days.
- Slight blurring of vision.

It is recommended to follow the doctor's instructions carefully after the eye cyst removal surgery, to speed up healing and ensure recovery without complications. The most prominent of these instructions are:

- Use a topical antibiotic in the form of drops or ointment for a week after the surgery to prevent infection.
- Commit to taking the prescribed steroid medications to reduce inflammation.
- Apply cold compresses on the first day to reduce swelling, then move to warm compresses starting the next day for 5 days to help drain and reduce the chance of the cyst reappearing.
- Take painkillers such as paracetamol to relieve discomfort.
- Avoid rubbing the eye.
- Refrain from wearing contact lenses for a week.
- Avoid getting water in the eye for a week.
- Do not use eye makeup for a month after the surgery.

**Recovery and Expected Results**

Full recovery from a cyst removal surgery will take a few weeks. You will notice a gradual improvement and the swelling and bruising will fade. The improved appearance will become more apparent over time and as the surgical scar fades. It is essential to adhere to proper wound care and follow the doctor’s instructions to achieve the desired results.

**Risks and Expectations**

A cyst removal surgery is a surgical procedure that carries some potential risks. The patient may face complications such as poor wound healing, infection, unusual bleeding, or scarring. It is important to adhere to the doctor’s instructions and not hesitate to ask any questions or concerns.

**Final Expectations**

After recovering from a cyst removal surgery, you will notice a gradual improvement in the appearance of the treated area. It may take a few weeks for the swelling and bruising to fade, but over time the improved results will become more apparent. It is essential to adhere to proper wound care and follow the doctor’s instructions to achieve the desired results.

**Post-operative consultation**

After undergoing a cyst removal procedure, it is important to consult a doctor for post-operative guidance and advice. The doctor can assess your condition and monitor your recovery progress. Do not hesitate to ask any questions or concerns you may have to get the necessary support and comfort.

**Full recovery and ongoing care**

After recovering from a cyst removal procedure, you may need ongoing care to ensure that you achieve the desired results. You should follow the instructions provided by your doctor regarding external applications and scheduled examinations. Continue to care for the wound area and monitor for any unusual signs. If you notice any changes that concern you, you should contact your doctor immediately.