Cyst Guide

Cysts are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. While typically benign, cysts can become uncomfortable, unsightly, or painful, especially if they become infected or inflamed. This guide explores everything you need to know about cysts, from their causes and symptoms to the treatment options available for safe and effective removal.

Page Highlights

What Are Cysts?

Signs a Cyst Needs Medical Attention

Why Remove Cysts?

Cyst Treatment Options

What to Expect During Cyst Removal

Aftercare Tips for Cyst Removal

How Much Does Cyst Removal Cost?

 
cyst on back being prepared for removal

What Are Cysts?

Cysts are sac-like pockets of tissue filled with fluid, pus, or other material. They can form under the skin or inside the body and vary in size, from small lumps to large, noticeable growths.

Key Facts About Cysts

Types of Cysts:

1. Epidermoid Cysts: Small, slow-growing cysts caused by trapped keratin under the skin.

2. Sebaceous Cysts: Cysts that form in sebaceous glands and are filled with oily material.

3. Pilar Cysts: Typically found on the scalp, these develop from hair follicle cells.

4. Ganglion Cysts: Fluid-filled cysts near joints or tendons, often on the wrist.

Common Causes:

•Blocked glands or ducts.

•Skin trauma.

•Infections or inflammatory conditions.

•Genetic predisposition.

While most cysts are benign and painless, some can grow, rupture, or become infected, requiring medical attention.

Read more on Cysts by the NHS

Signs a Cyst May Need Medical Attention

While many cysts are harmless, you should seek professional advice if:

•The cyst becomes painful or tender.

•It shows signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.

•The cyst grows rapidly or changes in appearance.

•It interferes with daily activities or causes discomfort.

Why Remove Cysts?

There are several reasons why cyst removal may be necessary:

Pain or Discomfort: Cysts that press on tissues or nerves can cause significant discomfort.

Infection: Infected cysts may become red, swollen, and filled with pus, requiring drainage or removal.

Cosmetic Concerns: Many people choose to remove visible cysts on the face, neck, or other prominent areas.

Prevention of Complications: Large or recurring cysts are more likely to rupture, leading to scarring and infection.

Types of Cyst Treatment Options

The appropriate treatment for a cyst depends on its size, location, and condition. Below are the most common options:

1. Observation

What It Is: Small, painless cysts that don’t interfere with daily life can be monitored over time without intervention.

Best For: Benign cysts with no signs of infection or rapid growth.

Benefits: Non-invasive and avoids unnecessary procedures.

Limitations: The cyst may grow or become inflamed in the future.

2. Incision and Drainage

What It Is: A small incision is made to release the cyst’s contents, relieving pressure and pain.

Best For: Infected or inflamed cysts requiring immediate relief.

Benefits: Quick, minimally invasive, and effective for symptomatic relief.

Limitations: The cyst sac remains, so recurrence is possible.

3. Surgical Excision

What It Is: The cyst, including its sac, is surgically removed to prevent recurrence.

Best For: Large, persistent cysts or those at risk of infection.

Benefits: Permanent removal with a low chance of recurrence.

Limitations: Involves minor surgery and may leave a small scar.

4. Antibiotics

What It Is: Prescribed to treat infected cysts by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.

Best For: Cysts with redness, swelling, or signs of infection.

Benefits: Helps control infection and reduce symptoms.

Limitations: Antibiotics cannot remove the cyst itself, so additional treatment may be required.

What to Expect During Cyst Removal

Most cyst removal procedures are straightforward and performed under local anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:

1. Assessment: Your specialist will examine the cyst to determine the best removal method.

2. Anesthetic: The area around the cyst is numbed to ensure a painless experience.

3. Procedure: Depending on the method, the cyst may be drained, excised, or treated with antibiotics.

4. Closure: For surgical excision, stitches may be used to close the incision.

5. Dressings: The area is dressed to protect it from infection.

The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the cyst.

Aftercare Tips for Cyst Removal

Proper aftercare ensures faster healing and minimizes the risk of complications:

Keep the Area Clean: Wash gently with soap and water to prevent infection once your dressings are removed.

Follow Specialist Instructions: Apply prescribed ointments or change dressings as directed.

Avoid Strenuous Activities: Reduce activities that could stress the treated area.

Monitor for Signs of Infection: Contact your specialist if you notice redness, swelling, or pus.

Read more on our What To Expect page.

Does Cyst Removal Require Pathology Testing?

In some cases, the removed cyst may be sent for pathology testing to confirm its benign nature.

When It’s Needed: If the cyst has unusual features, changes in appearance, or there’s concern about underlying conditions.

Why It’s Important: Pathology testing ensures the cyst is non-cancerous, providing peace of mind and guiding further treatment if needed.

How Much Does Cyst Removal Cost?

The cost of cyst removal varies depending on the method and complexity of the procedure.

Prices Start From: £895.

Consultation Fee: £100.

This fee includes a detailed consultation, the removal procedure, and aftercare.

Private Consultant Plastic Surgeon Edinburgh

Dr Kazem Nassar

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

When to Consult a Specialist

You should seek medical advice if:

•The cyst is painful or tender.

•The cyst becomes red, swollen, or warm to the touch.

•The cyst changes in size or appearance.

•The cyst interferes with daily activities.

•The cyst ruptures.

•You are unsure about the nature of the cyst.

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Cyst Removal?

Plastic surgeons are uniquely equipped to ensure the best cosmetic outcome. With their advanced training in skin surgery and aesthetics, they can minimize scarring and deliver a more natural-looking result.

Frequently Asked Questions : Cyst Removal

Treatment options for cysts include observation, incision and drainage, surgical excision, and antibiotics for infected cysts. The choice depends on the size, symptoms, and patient preference.

Excision is the most effective option to completely remove the cyst sac and prevent recurrence.

Picture of Authored by Dr Kazem Nassar

Authored by Dr Kazem Nassar

MBChB (University of Edinburgh) FRCS (Plast)
GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery

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