# Stye Treatment Summary Warm compresses are the first-line treatment for styes and effectively resolve most cases when used consistently. For styes that don't improve with warm compresses, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment can be applied as a next step to reduce bacterial load and speed healing. Cephalexin (Keflex) is recommended for severe or complicated styes where infection spreads or doesn't respond to standard care. Incision and drainage is reserved for persistent or severe styes and provides rapid relief with proper aftercare and eyelid hygiene to prevent recurrence.