Can I get my sebaceous cyst removed with no scarring?

Question

I have a sebaceous skin cyst on the left cheek of my face, around the size of a pea. I need to get it removed, but I don't want any scarring. Is there any way I can get it removed through the inside of my mouth, instead of through my cheek? Is there any possible way I can do it non surgically?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Nobody can claim to do surgery and not leave a scar.  you will always get a scar, sometimes smaller or better than others, when you cut the skin.  Lasers post treatment can help improve the apperance of the scar along with Biocorneum gel.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Damon B. Chandler, MD · Answer

You did not include any photos so I cannot comment specifically about your case. In general, when a mole or cyst is removed from the face it is not unusual for there to be pigmentation changes (color darker or color lighter or redness) around the area of removal.  It takes 6 months to 1 year after surgery for a face mole or cyst excision to be fully healed.  The best person to answer your questions is your surgeon --  i hope you chose a board-certified MD Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon or Facial Plastic Surgeon for your procedure as they are expertly trained in face cyst removals.  Your surgeon should be able to provide you with some reassurance as well as guidance in the care of your healing wound. Typically mild scarring and redness fades substantially with time. I would not recommend removing any subdermal cysts of the cheek from the inside of the mouth. Good luck in your search. 
Damon B. Chandler, MD
Harvard-Penn Trained Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon

Rafael C. Cabrera, MD · Answer

this is an interesting question. Some dermatologists will inject steroids into the cyst to try to have it involute. I have never liked this option because it can often create a contour deformity that requires a bigger operation to fix it. On occasion I have removed a large cyst in the cheek through a facelift incision. This is only possible if the overlying skin of the cyst is in good condition and the punctum is either invisible or very small. If it is done from underneath, it is possible to require a second operation to clean up any skin that does not heal properly. Therefore a small uncomplicated cyst is generally managed best with a small incision. however if the cyst is much larger then an attempt at  removal from a hidden incision where possible might be warranted. Good luck

Can I get my sebaceous cyst removed with no scarring?

Answers (3)