What should you know about milia in tear duct?

Milia are small keratin-filled cysts that can appear on the thin skin beside the inner corner of the eye. The tear duct is part of the drainage system for tears, so a bump that seems to sit in or at its opening may not be a typical skin milia. A close look helps separate a surface bump from irritation, a blocked drainage opening, or another eyelid lesion.

Milia often feel firm and look pearly, without discharge or marked inflammation. The appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis, especially when the bump touches the eyelid margin or inner corner.

Clean around the eyelids with clean water and avoid rubbing. Do not use a needle, cotton swab to press the bump, facial acids, eye makeup, or creams inside the tear-duct opening. Keep hands clean before touching the surrounding skin. A clinician can advise whether observation is appropriate or whether a controlled procedure is needed.

Read more about [Milia](/conditions/milia/) and related [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/). [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) are not suitable for self-treatment at the tear duct.

Arrange prompt assessment for eye pain, increasing redness or swelling, pus-like discharge, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or persistent watering. A bump that grows, bleeds, or changes colour also deserves review. If it is only on nearby skin and remains unchanged, book a routine appointment for confirmation rather than attempting extraction. [Whiteheads](/symptoms/whiteheads/) can resemble small pale bumps but are managed differently.

Ask whether the bump is on the skin or at the drainage opening, whether an eye examination is needed, and which products are safe near it. If removal is recommended, ask how the eye will be protected and what aftercare to follow.