Cauterisation for Milia

Milia are tiny cysts containing keratin trapped just beneath the surface. They can resemble [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/) or other [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/), so a clinician should confirm the diagnosis before treatment. During cauterisation, the area is cleansed and a fine device applies heat to the selected lesion, often after local numbing if appropriate. The opening allows the contents to be released or removed. The result can be a small crust or tender spot while the surface heals.

Do not pick, pierce, or burn a milia at home, especially near the eyelid. Tell the clinician about medicines, a tendency to form raised scars, cold sores near the treatment area, and any skin products that irritate you. Follow the aftercare instructions: keep the site clean, avoid rubbing, and protect healing skin from sun exposure. Depending on the number and location of lesions, alternatives may include [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/) or prescribed [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/).

Contact the treating clinic if pain, warmth, swelling, pus, or redness is increasing rather than settling, or if the area is slow to heal. Seek urgent help for swelling affecting vision, severe allergic symptoms, or rapidly spreading redness with fever. A lesion that changes colour, bleeds, or keeps returning should be reassessed rather than repeatedly cauterised.

Ask how certain the diagnosis is, why cauterisation suits the lesion and its location, what mark to expect during healing, and which aftercare products are safe. Ask about recurrence, alternatives, and whether an eyelid or multiple lesions need a different approach.