Cyst Removal Specialist

What are cysts?

Cysts are fluid-, protein-, or air-filled masses that can appear just about anywhere on your body. These closed sacs are movable underneath the skin and are usually slow-growing and painless. 

They’re typically not cancerous or otherwise dangerous to your health but can rub uncomfortably against clothing, be cosmetically unattractive, and cause pain and pressure. 

Cysts have the potential to become inflamed or infected. They’re common and can occur on anyone at any time, most often because of clogged sebaceous (oil-producing) glands.

When should I undergo cyst removal?

If you do feel a lump on your body that you suspect is a cyst, it’s important to have it evaluated. Though rare, cysts can be a sign of a more serious condition. 

A cyst that is small and not bothersome doesn’t need to be removed. Often, they go away on their own. Sometimes, your provider may choose to drain a cyst or inject it with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation as a treatment instead of surgical removal.

If you have a cyst that is irritating to you, either physically or cosmetically, talk to the team at Hill Country Dermatology about having it removed. Cyst removal is a simple in-office procedure performed under a local anesthetic.

What happens during cyst removal?

To remove a cyst, your provider first cleans the affected area and numbs it with an anesthetic. Then a scalpel or other sharp instrument is used to slice away the entire cyst wall. 

Your doctor uses stitches to close the area, which either dissolve on their own or are removed within 1-2 weeks. 

Following cyst removal, you can go back to most normal activities. You may need to take specific precautions to protect the treated area, so follow post-procedure instructions carefully. You may have some minor soreness in the treated area for a day or two afterward. 

Can a cyst return after removal?

Surgical excision can prevent the cyst from returning. Your doctor carefully removes any discharge from the cyst and the cyst walls to discourage it from redeveloping. 

If you have a lump or bump that you suspect is a cyst, make an appointment at Hill Country Dermatology to have it evaluated. Call one of the offices or use the online tool.