Options For Treating A Sebaceous Cyst

Sebaceous cysts, a common condition, are noncancerous cysts that lie under the skin. These are pockets of material produced by the body that usually show up on the face, neck, torso, scalp, and wrists. Many times, sebaceous cysts are filled with fluid, and other times they are filled with a firmer material of skin cells and can be hard. The cysts grow over time and can be irritating and embarrassing. Sebaceous cysts are generally not painful, but if they continue to grow, they can become painful and uncomfortable. There are several things individuals can do to ease the symptoms of sebaceous cysts, get rid of them, and make sure there are no complications. Learn about them now.

Surgical Cyst Excision

Even though sebaceous cysts are typically benign, they may become uncomfortable or painful. When this happens, patients might opt to consult a doctor for surgical cyst excision. They should not try to pop or pick at the cyst themselves, as this can lead to infection. Surgery is the only way to ensure the sebaceous cyst does not return, though it will leave a scar. Therefore, depending on where the cyst is, it might influence a patient's decision to have it surgically removed or not. The surgery usually requires the doctor to locally numb the are. One method of removing the cyst is to use a scalpel to make a small incision or a conventional incision in the skin and remove the cyst. Then, they will close the would with a few stitches. Another method is a laser punch, which allows a laser to make a small hole to drain the contents. The cyst and its contents will be sent away to a lab to confirm it is benign.

Keep reading for more options for treating a sebaceous cyst.