Chalazions, Hordeolums, Styes | Treatment with IPL and LLLT

Chalazion / Stye

What is a hordeolum (stye)?

An acute infection of the eye lash follicle or oil gland on the edge of the eyelid, which is often red, painful and tender to the touch. Typically caused by bacterial infection - usually staphylococcal bacteria from the skin. Hordeolum can be external (where the glands on the edge of the lid are infected) or internal (where the glands deeper inside the lid are infected). Most styes will get better on their own within a few days. You can help to relieve the pain and swelling by applying a warm compress to the affected area several times a day. Your optometrist may recommend an antibiotic ointment or eye drops and a course of low-level light therapy (LLLT) treatment.

What is a chalazion?

A chalazion arises when one of the oil glands (Meibomian gland) in the eyelid margin becomes blocked leading to swelling and inflammation. Chalazions are usually painless If the swelling is large, it can affect your vision. They can be related to blepharitis and rosacea.

Treatment for chalazion and hordeolum

At Haig-Brown Optometry we now offer low-level light therapy (LLLT) treatment. In clinical studies this treatment has shown a positive improvement to Chalazion and Hordeolum. Typically it will be one red-light mask treatment, but if a bacterial infection or blepharitis is suspected we may recommend blue-light and red-light treatments in series.

LLLT emits light at a specific wavelength which reduces local inflammation, heats the oil in the duct allowing it to flow and clear the blockage, impairs the bacterial viability, enhances glandular metabolism helping clear the blocked duct improves blood circulation aiding healing and relieving pain.

Session frequency and duration

Typically, 2 sessions spaced 4-7 days apart
Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes

Procedure steps

LLLT session with red-light mask

You will remain sitting or reclined on the couch comfortably while the LED light mask panel is positioned over the face. It is held in place with a band and it can be secured with a clip to your clothing if required.
The light is gentle, non-invasive, and completely painless.
This treatment lasts approximately 20 minutes for red-light or 40 minutes for both Blue and Red masks.
You are able to listen to head phones and your optometrist will remain in the room with you should you need anything.

No contact with the eye itself is involved.

What to expect during treatment

LLLT feels gentle and warm, with most patients finding it very relaxing.
You can resume normal activities immediately after the session.

Possible side effects

The treatment is generally safe, but as with any procedure, there are some potential side effects:

Uncommon:

Mild redness or warmth of the skin around the eyes (temporary)
Light sensitivity (usually resolves within a few hours)

Rare:

Skin pigmentation changes or superficial skin burns (very uncommon with correct protocols)

These symptoms typically resolve within 24–48 hours. All precautions are taken to minimise risk, including the use of eye protection and skin-cooling gels if required.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

This treatment is ideal for:

Patients with chronic/long lasting Chalazion/Styes
Those unresponsive to traditional therapies (e.g., warm compresses, artificial tears)
Patients looking for non-pharmacological, non-invasive options

Contraindications include:

Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Photosensitive skin conditions
Use of photosensitising medications medication* – some antibiotics (e.g. doxycycline, ciprofloxacin), some antifungals (e.g. Griseofulvin, Itraconazole), and some NSAIDs (e.g. Naproxen)
History of seizures triggered by light

A full clinical assessment will be conducted to determine if you are a suitable candidate

*If you are unsure, please consult your Optometrist or the medical practitioner who prescribed the drugs

PLEASE NOTE: The treatment room is on the first floor, which will involve a flight of stairs. If you have mobility issues, please speak to a member of staff prior to booking.

Expected outcomes

Many patients report:

Improved comfort
Faster resolution/healing

Benefits may be noticed after the first session, but optimal results typically appear after the full course.

Post-treatment care

Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen on the treated area for 24–48 hours
Follow any specific advice provided by your practitioner
Attend all scheduled appointments to achieve the best outcome
Each pulse is quick, and the session typically lasts 5-10 minutes

Aftercare instructions

On removing the mask after each LLLT session you may find your vision is affected and your perception of colours will be temporarily altered. This is a normal effect from exposing the eyes to light of certain colours and will completely resolve in a few minutes.

Skin may feel warm or slightly pink for a few hours after treatment.

Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturiser and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily. Wear sunglasses when outside for the first week.

Things to Avoid:

Direct sun exposure for 1–2 weeks
Harsh skincare products for 3–5 days
Heat treatments like saunas or hot baths for 24–48 hours

Questions

If you have any questions about your treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.