Cyst Removal

How Does Cyst Removal Work?

Cysts are benign round encapsulated growths filled with fluid or semi-fluid material found just below the skin. Your dermatologist can remove a cyst through various methods depending on the specific type of cyst you have. Each method essentially involves removing the material that is trapped below the skin’s surface. 

How Do I Prepare for Cyst Removal?

No specific care is required at home prior to the day of your cyst removal. Your dermatologist may also ask you to avoid:

• Shaving, waxing, or otherwise removing hair in the area
• Traumatizing the cyst

What Should I Expect with Cyst Removal?

Cyst removal may include draining (lancing) the cyst, local steroid injections, or surgical removal (excision). To complete each procedure, your dermatologist may use a topical numbing agent or local anesthetic, so you are comfortable throughout the cyst removal process. 

Lancing a cyst involves using a needle or blade to drain fluid away from the area. 

Steroid injections work to reduce swelling associated with an inflamed cyst and allow the body to heal. 

Excision involves carefully cutting away a cyst. Following excision, your dermatologist may place stitches, depending on the size of the cyst. 

Your dermatologist may also prescribe antibiotics for you to take following your cyst removal depending on the procedure and the cyst’s location.

What Should I Expect After Cyst Removal?

After cyst removal, you should keep the area clean and maintain any bandages according to your dermatologist’s wound care directions. If you experience any mild discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your dermatologist prescribed antibiotics or other medications, remember to take them according to the provided directions. You should not have trouble going about your normal routine but may wish to avoid rigorous exercise or athletic activities for about 1-2 weeks after your cyst removal if an excision was performed.

Cyst Removal FAQs

How long does a cyst removal take to heal? The healing time after cyst removal can vary, but typically it takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Can a sebaceous cyst be treated without surgery? Sebaceous cysts can be treated without surgery through non-invasive methods, such as steroid injections, incision, and drainage, or oral/ topical antibiotics. However, these modalities do not result in permanent removal of the cyst. Do you need stitches after a cyst removal? Stitches are often needed after a surgical cyst removal, which then would require a 2-week follow-up for a suture removal. Does a cyst removal leave scar? The procedure may or may not leave a scar, as this is a type of surgery. Proper wound care and following post-operative instructions can help minimize scarring. Is a cyst removal painful? Cysts removals are typically not painful. The procedure is done under localized numbing, which minimizes discomfort and pain during the procedure. Is a cyst removal considered surgery? A cyst removal is considered as a small surgical procedure, as it involves making an incision in the skin to remove the cyst, and often requires stitches after the removal. How do you prepare for a cyst removal? Little preparation is needed before a cyst removal. We simply advise following your providers’ instructions, providing any medical conditions or medication history, and wearing comfortable clothing. What is the fastest way to get rid of a cyst? The fastest and most effective way to get rid of a cyst would be surgical removal by a dermatologist.

Schedule an Appointment 

If you have a cyst that continues to grow or causes you discomfort or self-consciousness, a board-certified dermatologist can safely remove it. To schedule your appointment at Arlington Dermatology, please call our office or request an appointment online.