Can I get a sebaceous cyst removed from my groin at same time as Labiaplasty?

Question

I have been having problems with a sebaceous cyst about the size of a grape in my groin area. Its been coming and going for 3 months now. I went the the ER and the Dr. lanced it. She said only a little pus came out and that the cyst was too deep for her. I was hoping these antibiotics would knock out the infection and the cyst would go away but she recommended having it removed at the same time as my labiaplasty. Is there any chance this cyst will go away on its own with the antibiotics?

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

Groin cysts are easy to remove when they are organized and localized, but less so before they have "ripened". If you can time the procedure around the maturity of the cyst, you'll get a better result with the cyst.

John R. Miklos, MD, FPMRS, FACS · Answer

I agree with Dr Aguirre below. Yes the two can be done together but this is really the surgeons choice and the surgeons comfort level.  If your surgeon chooses not to do them simultaneously he/she feels they are being safe.   Please discuss with your surgeon.   I agree the cyst will not go away with antibioticsJohn R Miklos MD

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your upcoming labiaplasty.  I would first obtain a diagnosis as to what the mass is that is causing your difficulties - cyst, hidradenitis, Bartholins, etc. See a dermatologist, plastic surgeon or ob/gyn to have a variety of recommendations performed. If the mass is indeed a cyst only surgery will definitely resolve the problem as the cyst and its surrounding wall of tissue needs to be removed.  Antibiotics alone will only treat a possible infection.  If the area is actively infected and near your labia it would be best to postpone your labiaplasty until the infection has resolved.  Talk to your labiaplasty surgeon about this new development.  Best wishes.

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Thank you for your question, although a photo would have helped. It's not uncommon to combine these procedures, but this ultimately depends on your clinical presentation and your surgeon. Once the infectious process is "quieted down" it may be possible to surgically incise and drain the abscess at the time of your Labiaplasty. Bartolin's gland cysts are more common and I've addressed this before at the time of a Labiaplasty on several patients.  You should seek out the experience and expertise of a reconstructive and cosmetic vaginal surgeon who can provide you with the best options.  Best of luck,

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,As long as any infection has cleared and the cyst is not too close to the other work that needs to be done, it will likely be possible to remove it at the same time as labiaplasty surgery.Best Regards,John Di Saia MD

Can I get a sebaceous cyst removed from my groin at same time as Labiaplasty?

Answers (10)