Cyst Removal
Looking to remove a cyst? Our expert team offers cyst assessment and removal services.
Things to consider before removing a cyst
Cysts come in a variety of shapes and forms. This, alongside their location on the body, will dictate how best to remove them.
In the first consultation, we will discuss your options and examine the cyst to determine the best treatment option for you. For facial cysts or cysts in more delicate areas, you will need to consider scarring and potential discomfort post-removal.
Most removal procedures will leave scarring in the area. We will always try to minimise this, but it is not possible to have it completely scar-free.
We will explain the pros and cons of each option and suggest to you the best one for your situation alongside potential alternatives.
Types of cysts
Epidermoid cyst removal
Epidermoid cysts typically occur on the trunk, neck or face. The back is a very common site. Whilst usually painless, they can become irritated, inflamed or infected. Large cysts can rupture and discharge their contents, leading to a temporary resolution of the pressure symptoms.
Pilar cyst removal
Pilar cysts usually develop from hair follicles and are common to find on the scalp.
How do we remove cysts?
Excision
This is the most common and effective method of permanently removing a cyst. We will make a small incision to remove the cyst. After cleaning the area and numbing with local anaesthetic, we will make a small cut over the cyst, allowing us to carefully extract it and remove the sac to prevent it coming back.
Aspiration
Aspiration involves draining the cyst of fluid by using a needle. After drainage, we then clean the surrounding area. It may be necessary to insert a wick into the cyst to allow it to continue to discharge over the next few days, healing from the bottom.
Post-procedure care for cyst removal
Proper aftercare is important after cyst removal as it can reduce discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery. Ensure to follow these steps after undergoing a lesion removal:
Maintain immediate aftercare. You should keep the area dry and clean as this minimises any chance of infection.
Expect slight discomfort. It's common to experience slight discomfort for several days after the removal. Any prolonged pain can be combated with simple painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen or other medication obtained over the counter.
Avoid physical activities. Avoid intense physical activities as well as swimming. Wait until the wound has healed before doing so.
Look out for signs of infection. Slight redness or itching is normal. However, increased swelling, pain or discharge from the area can show signs of infection. You should contact a medical professional if this occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you can not remove a cyst without surgery, however surgical excision may not always be necessary. Surgery looks to remove the cyst entirely, thereby reducing the risk of the cyst returning.
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, which means that the discomfort is minimal.
After having a cyst removed, it can take upwards of 2-3 weeks for the wound to fully heal. We aim to remove stitches between 1-2 weeks after it takes place, depending on the location of the cysts. Most of our patients can return to work or school the day after the operation, but we advise avoiding strenuous activities for a couple of weeks.
Cyst removal is generally a safe and routine process, but like any medical procedure, it comes with some potential risks and complications. This includes: infection, bleeding, scarring, pain and discomfort, recurrence of cyst, and rare damage to nerves. We will discuss these risks with you in our initial consultation and weigh up the pros and cons of each removal option.
You can book an appointment by calling us directly on 01273 077222 or using the booking button on this page.