What is involved in a cyst removal?

Cysts are fluid- or pus-filled lumps that can appear on any part of the body, but are most frequently found on the head or neck. While generally harmless and painless, their appearance can make cysts unpleasant to live with. Cysts can also become infected and sore, or grow large in size, making the pursuit of removal even more pressing for the affected individual.

Whether you’re considering cyst removal for cosmetic reasons, to alleviate pain, or both, you’ll want to read our guide to your treatment options.

The procedure

While there are many treatments, including home remedies, detailed across the web, the best and safest option for cyst removal is surgery.

Here at Skin Scar Clinic, cyst removal procedures are carried out in our purpose-built, minor operating theatres. The surgical procedure itself is conducted under local anaesthetic and is painless. A small incision is made in the skin, and the cyst and its sac are fully removed. Failure to remove all of the sac could lead to the regrowth of the cyst.

The incision is then closed, either with or without stitches, which our specialists will advise on before the procedure.

The timeline

You’ll be pleased to hear that most cyst removal surgeries are completed in just one appointment, with the outpatient procedure generally able to be carried out during your initial consultation. 

The aftercare

As with any surgical procedure, aftercare is an important part of the bigger picture. Patients must take appropriate care of the incision area using the advice given by our team.

While you will be allowed to go home immediately after surgery, you may require pain relief once the effects of the local anaesthetic have subsided. Patients usually take a simple painkiller, like paracetamol, for one to two days post-surgery. 

The result

Removing unwelcome and unwanted skin cysts is what we specialise in, and we take great care to eradicate all remnants of the cyst to make its return unlikely.

Cyst removal is an extremely safe and relatively simple surgery that carries minimal risks or adverse effects. Around 1 to 2% of patients undergoing cyst removal are affected by wound infection, which can be treated quickly and easily with antibiotics.

While we make every effort to optimise fading and minimise discolouration, scarring can also occur as a result of cyst removal surgery. Every patient is given a scar management programme to improve their outcome, although time is the best healer.

For further information about our cyst removal surgery or to book your consultation, please contact us today.