How long does curettage and cautery take to work for milia?

Milia are small keratin-filled cysts, often seen around the eyes or on the cheeks. Curettage lifts the material out, and cautery treats the tiny surface area that was handled. Mild redness, a pinprick scab, or tenderness can be visible before the skin looks calm again. The procedure addresses the selected bump; it does not prevent a separate milia from forming elsewhere.

Keep the area clean and follow the dressing instructions given by your clinician. Avoid picking the scab, rubbing the eyelid, or applying irritating products until the surface has closed. Use only products recommended for the treated area, particularly near the eyes. Once healed, sun protection can help reduce lingering colour change. Arrange a review if the bump remains, returns in the same place, or you are unsure whether a new white spot is another milia.

Contact the treating clinic if redness spreads, pain worsens, swelling becomes marked, or the area produces pus. Prompt advice is also sensible for fever, persistent bleeding, or any change in vision after treatment near the eye. These findings need assessment rather than being judged by the expected healing timeline.

Ask whether the spot is suitable for curettage and cautery, what appearance is expected each day, and when you may restart your usual skincare or makeup. If you have several bumps, ask whether they are all milia and whether another approach would be more appropriate.