A red bump on the eyelid can start as a nuisance–but when it lingers, grows, or becomes painful, it may need expert evaluation and removal. Whether it’s a stye or a chalazion, these eyelid lesions can affect your vision, appearance, and overall comfort.
At her practice in Irvine, CA, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers safe, in-office removal of eyelid bumps, including persistent or recurring styes and chalazia. As a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, she brings gentle precision and aesthetic awareness to every procedure, especially in the delicate eyelid region.
I had styes from hell. I went to numerous doctors/ophthalmologist’s over the course of 7 weeks and even had a failed eyelid surgery. Thank goodness I was referred to Dr. Erb. She identified the problems, booked an appointment for the following week and yesterday July 13 had my stitches taken out and couldn’t be happier with the results. Doctor Erb’s staff, especially Gina who was always helpful and available by phone on the many questions and concerns I had. Thank you Doctor Erb and your wonderful staff. Best Regards, Steve R
What’s the Difference Between a Stye and a Chalazion?
Though they look similar, styes and chalazia are caused by different issues and require different treatments.
Stye (Hordeolum)
- A painful red bump caused by an infected oil gland near the base of an eyelash
- Usually tender, swollen, and may drain pus
- Often resolves on its own with warm compresses
- May become larger or persist if untreated
Chalazion
- A firm, painless bump caused by a blocked oil gland (not infected)
- Develops over time and can remain for weeks or months
- Often mistaken for a stye in its early stages
- May not resolve without medical treatment or drainage
If either condition persists or begins to affect your eyelid contour, vision, or self-confidence, minor surgery may be needed to remove the lesion.
When to Consider Stye or Chalazion Removal
You may be a candidate for in-office eyelid lesion removal if:
- The bump has persisted for more than 2-4 weeks
- It is not improving with warm compresses or topical antibiotics
- It is causing discomfort, irritation, or vision changes
- It affects your appearance or confidence
- You’ve had recurring styes or chalazia in the same area
In some cases, Dr. Erb may recommend steroid injections to reduce inflammation before proceeding with surgical removal.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Stye and chalazion removal is a quick and minimally invasive procedure performed in Dr. Erb’s Irvine office. The approach depends on the location and size of the lesion:
- Internal drainage (from inside the eyelid) for lesions on the inner surface
- External incision for bumps that point towards the front of the eyelid
- Steroid injection may be used for stubborn inflammation or recurrence
The procedure typically takes less than 20 minutes. Dr. Erb ensures patient comfort with numbing eyedrops, numbing cream, numbing injection. You will be bruised and swollen for 2 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stye & Chalazion Removal
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Styes often resolve with warm compresses, lid scrubs, hypochlor spray, prescription eye ointments or eyedrops, possibly oral antibiotics. But if a bump persists, grows, or becomes painful, medical intervention may be necessary.
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Dr. Erb uses a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience. You may feel light pressure, but no sharp pain during the procedure.
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In most cases, no visible scar remains. Internal incisions leave no trace, and external ones are placed strategically to heal discreetly.
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Demodex mites, chronic eyelid inflammation (blepharitis), rosacea, or oil gland dysfunction can increase your risk. Dr. Erb will recommend a long-term eyelid hygiene plan.
Why Choose Dr. Melanie Ho Erb for Eyelid Bump Removal?
- Board-certified oculoplastic surgeon with elite training in eyelid surgery
- Thousands of successful stye and chalazion removals performed
- Safe, in-office treatment with a focus on comfort and minimal scarring
- Aesthetic expertise to maintain or restore natural eyelid contours
- Dedicated follow-up care to ensure full healing and reduce recurrence
Whether it’s your first stye or a chronic chalazion issue, Dr. Erb offers the right blend of precision and compassion to resolve your concern effectively.
Meet Dr. ErbSay Goodbye to Stubborn Eyelid Bumps in Irvine
If you’ve been dealing with a stye or chalazion that just won’t go away, it’s time to seek expert care. With meticulous technique and a deep understanding of eyelid health, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb provides safe, effective treatment for persistent eyelid bumps.
Schedule your consultation in Irvine to restore comfort and confidence with precise style or chalazion removal.
Medically reviewed by Melanie Ho Erb, M.D. on