Comprehensive Guide to Cyst Removal

If you or someone you know has ever had a cyst, then you know just how bothersome it can be. Cysts are relatively common and depending on the cyst’s location, size, and type, cyst removal surgery may be necessary in some cases.

While some cysts are relatively harmless and resolve on their own, others can cause significant problems, like pain and infection. For those who may need to have a cyst removed, Premier Surgical Network offers expert evaluation and tailored treatment options for various cyst conditions.

What Is a Cyst?

Cysts are closed, fluid-filled sacs that can form anywhere in the body. They are often lined with epithelial cells and contain materials like keratin or sebum. While commonly found on the skin, cysts can also develop in internal organs.

Most cysts are benign and may not need treatment, but larger ones can cause discomfort or affect bodily functions, prompting their removal. Several types of cysts may need to be removed.

Sebaceous Cyst Removal

Sebaceous cysts are common skin growths that develop when sebaceous glands become clogged. Removal might be necessary when:

The cyst becomes infected or inflamed
It grows large enough to cause discomfort or affect the appearance
There is a risk of rupture
It interferes with daily activities (e.g., if located in an area of frequent friction)

Pilonidal Cyst Removal

Pilonidal cysts typically form in the gluteal cleft and are caused by the hair in this area. Removal may be recommended when:

The cyst causes persistent pain
If the cyst becomes infected or if an abscess develops
Conservative treatments (like aspiration) have failed

Epidermoid Cyst Removal

Epidermoid cysts are slow-growing bumps that develop beneath the skin. Removal might be necessary if:

The cyst becomes infected, causing pain and swelling
It grows to a size that causes discomfort or affects appearance
There is a risk of rupture, which can lead to inflammation
The cyst is in a location that frequently gets irritated (e.g., on the face or in an area of clothing friction)
There are concerns about potential malignancy (though rare)

In all cases of potential cyst removal procedures, a medical professional at Premier Surgical Network would assess the individual situation to determine if removal is the best course of action.

Signs You May Need Cyst Removal Surgery

Symptoms that can indicate a cyst removal may be necessary includes:

Pain or tenderness: If a cyst becomes painful or tender to the touch, it may be infected or inflamed.
Rapid growth: A cyst growing quickly or larger than 5 cm may need evaluation.
Redness and swelling: These can be signs of infection or inflammation around the cyst.
Discharge: Foul-smelling or colored drainage from the cyst can suggest infection.
Fever: A fever accompanying cyst symptoms could indicate a systemic infection.
Changes in appearance: Any changes in the cyst’s color, texture, or shape.
Interference with daily activities: If the cyst’s location or size impairs movement or function.
Recurrence after drainage: Cysts that return after being drained may need surgical removal.

If any of these symptoms arise, seek a professional evaluation immediately, as early treatment and intervention can help prevent further complications. In rare cases, some cysts may be or become cancerous, requiring prompt evaluation for cancer screening.

Diagnostic Procedures

Cysts are diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider may be able to feel a lump or swelling that could indicate a cyst. However, advanced imaging tests are sometimes necessary for a definitive diagnosis and to determine the cyst’s exact size, location, and characteristics.

Transabdominal ultrasounds may also be used to assess cysts in other parts of the body. Additional imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI, may be recommended if ultrasound results are inconclusive. These advanced imaging techniques can help differentiate between benign and potentially malignant cysts, assess for solid components, and evaluate the surrounding tissues.

Cyst Removal Techniques

Cyst removal can be done in several ways, depending on the size and severity of the cyst. The conventional wide excision is a traditional method that involves removing the entire cyst and its wall, ensuring a thorough extraction and minimizing the chances of recurrence.

For smaller cysts, surgeons might use a punch biopsy excision, which creates a small circular incision to remove the cyst. Laser-assisted removal is another option that provides precise incisions with minimal bleeding, though it requires specialized equipment and may not be appropriate for all types of cysts.

In cases where immediate relief is needed, drainage can be performed to remove fluid from the cyst quickly, but this method has a high recurrence rate since it does not address the cyst wall.

How Long Does Cyst Removal Surgery Take?

Patients can typically expect a quick and straightforward cyst removal process. Depending on the size and location of the cyst, the procedure takes about 30 minutes or less.

Before the procedure, the doctor will clean and mark the area around the cyst. Local anesthesia, usually lidocaine, will be injected to numb the area, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Once the area is numb, the doctor will make a small incision to access the cyst.

After making the incision, the cyst will be removed by draining its contents or excising it entirely, including the cyst wall. Sometimes, the doctor may also use a hemostat or tweezers to help extract the cyst. After removal, the incision may be closed with stitches, depending on its size and the removal technique used.

Recovery and Aftercare

After a cyst removal procedure, patients will receive several key post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize complications. Initially, it is important to keep the treated area clean and dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. Patients are also advised to avoid strenuous activities for about a week post-surgery to prevent disrupting the healing process.

Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen can be used to manage pain, but blood thinners such as NSAIDs should be avoided in the first 72 hours. During this time, monitoring the incision site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, is also critical.

To prevent any post-surgery complications, patients should follow up with their doctor as instructed, usually within 10-14 days after the surgery. If any concerning symptoms arise, such as severe pain not alleviated by medication or signs of infection, contacting the healthcare provider promptly is essential. If you suspect you have a cyst that may need removal, do not wait to talk with a healthcare provider. Take the first step by scheduling a cyst removal consultation with one of our New Jersey surgeons today.