Milia Removal | Copeland MD Aesthetics & Minor Surgery

MILIA

Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that form just under the surface of the skin. They occur when keratin (a natural skin protein) becomes trapped beneath the skin rather than shedding normally. Milia are very common and are harmless.

They most often appear on the face, particularly around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead, but can occur anywhere on the body.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS

Small, firm, white or yellowish bumps
Typically 1–2mm in size
Not inflamed or painful
Do not have an opening or pore
Often appear in clusters
Common around the eyes and upper cheeks

CAUSES & PREVENTIONS

Milia can develop for several reasons, including:

Dead skin cells not shedding properly
Use of heavy or occlusive skincare products
Sun damage
Skin trauma (such as burns, procedures, or rashes)
Certain medical or cosmetic treatments

Prevention tips may include:

Using non-comedogenic skincare products
Gentle exfoliation (where appropriate)
Sun protection
Avoiding overly heavy creams around the eyes

TREATMENT & PROCEDURE

Should Milia Be Removed?

Milia do not usually resolve on their own and should not be picked or squeezed, as this can damage the skin and increase the risk of scarring or infection.

Professional removal may be recommended if milia:

Persist over time
Occur around delicate areas such as the eyes
Are cosmetically bothersome
Recur frequently

What Does the Procedure Involve? Is It Painful?

Milia removal is a minor, in-clinic procedure performed by a trained professional.

The procedure typically involves:

Cleansing and preparing the skin
Creating a very small opening in the surface of the skin
Gently extracting the trapped keratin

The procedure is quick and generally well tolerated. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, often described as a slight pressure or scratch.

RISKS, RECOVERY & AFTERCARE

What Are the Risks?

When performed correctly, milia removal is very low risk. Possible but uncommon risks include:

Temporary redness
Minor swelling
Very small scabs
Rare risk of infection or scarring

Following proper aftercare greatly reduces these risks.

Aftercare Recommendations

After milia removal, you may be advised to:

Keep the area clean and dry for 24 hours
Avoid makeup on the treated area for a short period
Use gentle skincare products
Avoid touching or picking the area
Apply sun protection while healing

Any mild redness usually settles within a few days.

COSTS

What is the cost of Milia removal?

The cost to remove Milia depends on the quantity, location chosen method of removal.

Cautery: Starting at: $250
Needle Extraction Starting at: $400
Laser Ablation Starting at: $400
Full Face Treatment: $600 – $800
Touch-Up Sessions: $250 – $350