An unexpected bump on your eyelid can be concerning. It might feel a little tender or just be an annoyance you notice when you look in the mirror. This common issue, called a chalazion, is often connected to the overall health and function of your eyelids and may be related to conditions like dry eye disease. Understanding the causes and treatments for chalazia is the first step toward finding lasting comfort for your eyes.
We can help manage chalazia and related dry eye symptoms with an advanced eyelid treatment called the Jett Plasma Pen, a technology used in our clinic as part of our comprehensive dry eye therapy program to support healthy oil gland function. This treatment uses reversible electroporation technology to gently target the blocked glands contributing to discomfort.
What Are Chalazia & Why Do They Form?
A Simple Look at a Chalazion
A chalazion is a small lump that forms on your eyelid because of a blocked oil gland. These glands—called meibomian glands—line your upper and lower eyelids. They produce an important oil that protects your tear film.
It often feels like a painless bump, though it can become red or swollen if it gets irritated. This is different from a stye, which is typically an infection at the base of an eyelash and is usually painful to the touch.
Common Signs of a Chalazion
You may notice a few specific signs if you have a chalazion. The most common indicators include:
- A noticeable, firm lump on the upper or lower eyelid
- Mild irritation or discomfort in the eye
- Blurry vision if the lump is large enough to press on your eye
The Connection Between Dry Eye & Chalazia
How Gland Function Affects Your Eyes
Your eyelids contain dozens of tiny glands that produce oil to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly. This oil layer is what gives your tears stability and keeps your eyes hydrated. When these glands get blocked, the oil can’t get out, which can cause both chalazia and the uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye.
Good meibomian gland health supports tear film stability and overall eye comfort. That’s why many of our dry eye treatments, including Jett Plasma, focus on improving gland performance.
Signs You Might Have Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms often appear alongside other eyelid issues. Pay attention to how your eyes feel throughout the day. Common signs include:
- A gritty or sandy feeling, like something is in your eye
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Watery eyes, as your body tries to compensate for the dryness
- Redness & sensitivity to light
A Modern Approach to Eye Care: Jett Plasma Pen Therapy
What Is the Jett Plasma Pen?
The Jett Plasma Pen is a handheld device that uses reversible electroporation technology to treat the surface of the skin without surgical incisions. Health Canada has authorized its use for dermatology and aesthetic treatments, and it is increasingly being applied to eye care to help manage eyelid and gland-related concerns.
The energy causes a microcurrent which stimulates and rejuvenates the meibomian glands. It does this by increasing the permeability of the cells within the meibomian glands, allowing waste to go out and micronutrients to go in. It also causes an astringent effect (contracts and expands the glands) expelling the meibum (the oily part of the tear film) and liquifies the meibum. It also decreases the bacterial load on the lid margin and reduces inflammation.
This process helps stimulate the skin’s natural response and supports better function of the oil glands that keep your eyes comfortable.
How It Can Help With a Chalazion
When used for a chalazion, the Jett plasma pen can help soften and release trapped oils within the gland. By gently targeting the affected area, this treatment supports natural drainage and reduces localized inflammation.
Because it’s non-surgical and precise, surrounding tissue remains undisturbed, promoting smooth healing.
Your Jett Plasma Pen Treatment & What to Expect
The Treatment Process
We begin by making sure the area is numb with a small application of local anesthetic. Your comfort is important, and this ensures you feel nothing during the short procedure. Your optometrist, ophthalmologist, or certified dry eye hygienist then uses the device to apply microcurrent energy to the chalazion.
The entire process is quick and straightforward, often taking just a few minutes per eye. You’ll be able to go home the same day. As with any visit, we will walk you through what to expect during the treatment, and are happy to answer any questions that you may have..
After Your Treatment
After the procedure, you may notice a small carbon crust form over the treated spot. This is a normal part of the healing process and acts like a natural bandage. It’s important to let it fall off on its own over the next several days.
We will give you simple aftercare instructions to support the healing of the chalazion.
Comprehensive Eye Care for Your Family in Brantford
If you’ve noticed a bump on your eyelid or your eyes have been feeling irritated or dry, it’s time to visit our team at Brantford Eye Care. We’ll take a close look, find the cause of your discomfort, and help you get back to feeling your best.
Our friendly, experienced team is here to support your eye health with personalized care and modern technology, so you can see clearly and comfortably every day.
Book your appointment today and discover how we can help protect and restore your eye comfort.
