If a smaller cyst becomes inflamed, tender, or swollen, your doctor may simply inject it with a steroid or drain it via a small cut and then squeeze out the contents.
Larger cysts in a prominent place (like your face) or in an area that interferes with clothing can be surgically removed by a dermatologic surgeon or plastic surgeon.
An excision procedure is performed in your doctor’s office. First, the area around the cyst is marked and injected with a local anesthetic. If the cyst is in a sensitive area, such as the scrotum, a topical numbing cream can be applied first, explains Dr. Ron Shelton, a dermatologic surgeon in New York City.
Once you’re numb, your surgeon cuts the area around the cyst with a scalpel or punch (a sharp, hollow, circular cookie-cutter-like instrument).
The surgeon uses their fingers, scissors, or tweezers to free the entire cyst wall from the surrounding skin and completely pull or snip away any remaining attachments. Removing the entire cyst capsule is important, to be sure that the cyst doesn’t return.
Sometimes a cyst is removed endoscopically, in order to locate the resulting scar in an inconspicuous place. In this case, you’re given mild oral sedation in addition to the local anesthetic. Two small incisions are made, to gain access to the cyst, and a thin surgical instrument tunnels under the skin until it reaches, frees, and removes the cyst capsule.
Afterward, the skin is closed with stitches and covered with Steri-Strips, sterile tape that protects the wound and helps it grow back together. If dissolvable sutures aren’t used, stitches are removed at a follow-up appointment within 7 to 10 days.
Your surgeon may send the cyst and its contents to a pathologist for biopsy and evaluation, to ensure that it's not cancerous.
It’s normal for your skin to feel firm after cyst removal. Gentle massage can help, but follow the aftercare instructions provided by your doctor. Any redness should fade with time.
RealSelf Tip: If your cyst is in a delicate, challenging location, such as your face, choose an expert with specific training in facial plastic surgery in order to minimize your scar.
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