Surgery
Cyst Removal
Cyst removal takes out a harmless lump under the skin, such as a sebaceous or epidermoid cyst, when it is troublesome or repeatedly infected.
Quick answer
Cyst Removal: what it is, why it's done and what happens
These common skin cysts are small sacs under the skin filled with a soft, cheese-like material. Removal takes out the whole cyst, including its lining, so it is less likely to come back.
- Why it is done: It is used when a cyst becomes painful, keeps getting infected, is growing, or is in an awkward or noticeable place.
- What happens: Under local anaesthetic, the surgeon makes a small cut over the cyst and removes it along with its lining, then closes the skin with stitches.
What it is
These common skin cysts are small sacs under the skin filled with a soft, cheese-like material. Removal takes out the whole cyst, including its lining, so it is less likely to come back.
Why it is done
It is used when a cyst becomes painful, keeps getting infected, is growing, or is in an awkward or noticeable place. Many cysts are harmless and can be left alone if not causing problems.
What happens
Under local anaesthetic, the surgeon makes a small cut over the cyst and removes it along with its lining, then closes the skin with stitches. It is a quick clinic procedure.
Recovery
The wound heals over one to two weeks; stitches may need removing. Keeping it clean and dry helps. An actively infected cyst may be drained first and removed fully later.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include scarring, infection, bleeding and the cyst returning if any lining is left behind. Removing an inflamed, infected cyst is harder and more likely to recur.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Cyst Removal: frequently asked questions
Why remove the whole cyst rather than just drain it?
Draining alone often leaves the sac (lining) behind, so the cyst usually refills and returns. Removing the entire cyst including its lining makes recurrence much less likely.
Are these cysts dangerous?
Sebaceous and epidermoid cysts are almost always harmless. They are removed for comfort or repeated infection rather than cancer risk, though any lump that changes should be checked.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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