Skin cysts are closed pockets of tissue that form under the skin, and may feel like a smooth or round lump. They are found on the face, scalp, neck, chest, back or body, and may slowly grow larger over time.
We offer private assessment and removal of suitable skin cysts. Your clinician will examine the lump, talk about your symptoms and advise what is the safest option for you – removal, monitoring or further investigation.
A cyst may feel firm, smooth or slightly movable under the skin. Some cysts have a small central opening, whilst others are deeper and less easily seen at first.
Many cysts are painless, but they can become uncomfortable if they grow, press on nearby tissue, catch on clothing or become inflamed. If the cyst becomes red, hot, painful or starts to discharge, it may be infected and needs reviewing.
In order to remove a cyst properly, the sac or lining usually has to be taken out along with the contents. For example, cysts can sometimes be squeezed and temporarily shrink, but if the cyst wall remains under the skin it can return.
Your clinician will explain whether complete removal is appropriate and what can realistically be achieved. It helps to reduce the chances of recurrence and a clearer treatment plan.
You may want to have a cyst checked if it is uncomfortable, visible, growing, or a matter of concern. Even if a cyst appears benign, it is important to confirm the diagnosis before planning to remove it. You might want to see a doctor if the lump is:
Your clinician will decide if the lump looks like a cyst or if a different type of skin lump should be considered.
If the cyst has become infected or an abscess, immediate removal may not always be the best course of action. If clinically necessary, the priority may be to treat the infection, reduce inflammation or drain any collection of pus.
Your clinician will look for things like increased redness, heat, swelling, severe pain, discharge, fever, or spreading infection. We will customise the treatment plan according to whether the cyst is calm, inflamed or infected at the time of assessment.
Cyst removal is generally carried out as a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic. This requires numbing up the area prior to treatment so that the procedure is more comfortable.
A small incision is made over or around the cyst, and the cyst is carefully dissected out. Depending on how big the wound is and where it is, it may be closed with stitches and covered with a dressing.
Your appointment will start with a consultation and examination. Your clinician will ask how long the lump has been present, if it has changed, whether it has become infected before and if you have any relevant medical conditions.
If removal is indicated, this will be explained before the procedure is initiated. You may feel pressure or movement during treatment but not sharp pain once the local anaesthetic has taken effect.
You may have some soreness, bruising or a little swelling in the area for a short time after removal. We will provide you with clear aftercare instructions before you leave the clinic. Aftercare may consist of:
Scars can result from any cyst removal. The appearance at the end depends on the size of the cyst, body site, method of removal, skin type and healing of the wound.
Cysts can sometimes come back, especially if the cyst wall can’t be taken out completely, or if the area has been inflamed before. Before treatment, your clinician will describe the anticipated outcome and chances of recurrence.
Most skin cysts are benign, but not every lump should be removed without first being evaluated. If the lump is hard, fixed, growing quickly, unusually painful, deep or difficult to diagnose, your clinician may suggest an ultrasound, referral or other investigation first.
If further assessment is needed, your clinician will explain why, and take you through the next step.
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