Though cysts can often appear small and harmless, one day, they may develop into something bigger and painful. When a cyst shows up, it’s an unwelcome surprise, causing anxiety and discomfort for most patients. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help remove cysts from the body, and the board-certified dermatologists at Rendon Center are more than happy to offer this to all our patients.
At Rendon Center, we prioritize patient satisfaction and understand that being healthy can have a heavy impact on feeling confident. That is why we offer cyst removal treatments to those experiencing pain, discomfort, or the desire to eliminate cysts completely. To learn more about our cyst treatments and whether cyst removal is right for you, read our FAQ below.
What Are Cysts and When Do They Require Dermatological Care?
A cyst is a closed sac under the skin filled with liquid and/or soft or hard material. While cysts are quite common in people with overall good health, they can at times appear large or painful. Cysts can form anywhere on the body, including on the surface of the skin, genitals, and internal organs.
In some cases, cysts are harmless and heal on their own. However, a cyst requires dermatological care if any of the following factors apply:
- Pain or discomfort:Â Cysts can become inflamed, tender and painful, interfering with daily activities and overall well-being.
- Infection:Â Treatment is essential if a cyst becomes infected. A dermatologist can treat the infection to prevent it from worsening or spreading. See a dermatologist if you notice redness, discharge, swelling or pain.
- Rapid growth or change in appearance:Â Seek treatment if you notice a cyst rapidly change in size or appearance. A dermatologist can rule out underlying causes and recommend further tests or treatment if necessary.
- Restricted movement:Â Depending on where a cyst forms, it can restrict movement and become bothersome. You may need to seek treatment if a cyst hinders your ability to walk, bend or write.
- Cosmetic concerns:Â Dermatologists provide safe removal options if a cyst causes cosmetic concerns and impacts self-esteem.
Common Types of Cysts That Dermatologists Treat
Most cysts are benign and develop due to blockages in the body’s natural drainage systems. Dermatologists classify different types of cysts based on their origin, composition and location. The following types of cysts are common:
- Dermatofibromas:Â Dermatofibromas typically occur on the arms or legs after an injury. They develop in the skin's deep layers and usually appear dull red or pink.
- Epidermoid cysts:Â An epidermoid cyst is a small sac containing fluid or dead skin cells, and it forms in the skin's deeper layers.
- Sebaceous cysts:Â A sebaceous cyst forms when a sebaceous gland becomes damaged or blocked.
- Digital mucous cysts:Â Digital mucous cysts are fluid-filled sacs that usually develop near toenails and fingernails. They can occur due to underlying joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis.
- Pilar cysts:Â Pilar cysts are round, smooth, keratin-filled sacs that typically appear on the scalp.
Why Is Quality Dermatological Care Important for Cyst Treatment?
When it comes to cyst removal, dermatologists are essential. Whether you need an epidermoid cyst or sebaceous cyst removal, choosing a board-certified dermatologist is vital for the following reasons:
- Safety and minimized risk of complications:Â A board-certified dermatologist has the skills, training, and experience to remove cysts safely, preventing further complications such as infection.
- Proper diagnosis:Â Board-certified dermatologists can properly identify the cause of a cyst and determine if further testing is necessary. Trusting a dermatologist to remove a cyst is especially crucial if you suspect a cyst could be cancerous or pre-cancerous.
- Minimal scarring:Â Dermatologists use precise techniques and delicate instruments to remove cysts, which minimizes scarring.
What’s the Difference Between a Cyst and a Tumor?
A cyst is a sac of tissue filled with another substance, such as air or fluid, while tumors are solid masses of tissue. While both cysts and tumors can form anywhere on the body, cysts are tender and can be moved easily while tumors tend to grow quickly and are firm to the touch.
What Causes Cysts to Form?
Though cysts can form in any location of the body and may seem to come out of nowhere, there are a few common causes that prompt cysts to develop. Here are some common causes:
- Clogged glands, such as the sebaceous glands
- Result of an infection
- Piercings
- Genetic conditions
- Tumors
- A defect in a cell
- Blockages of ducts in the body cause fluids to build up
- Parasites
- An injury that breaks a vessel
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
Our Specialized Cyst Removal Treatment Options
Rendon Center uses the following methods to treat cysts:
- Corticosteroid injection: We can inject a corticosteroid into the cyst. This steroid helps minimize swelling if pain, growth, or inflammation are a concern.
- Aspiration: We may aspirate (drain) the cyst by inserting a needle or a catheter into the cavity. If the cyst is deeper in the skin, we may use X-ray or ultrasound guidance to accurately guide needle placement.
- Surgical excision:Â A surgical excision removes a cyst's sac and discharge to prevent recurrence. If recurrence is a concern, your dermatologist may recommend a cyst excision over aspiration.
- Advanced laser removal: Laser removal is a unique, minimally invasive treatment option. Laser energy first creates a slight hole to drain the cyst, and then a small excision removes the cyst wall about one month later.
Is a Cyst Removal Painful?
In most cases, when a cyst needs to be removed, the patient will be provided with local anesthesia to optimize comfort and prevent them from feeling any pain during the procedure. If you feel you are sensitive to pain during surgery, our doctors will be happy to discuss other options to help you have the most comfortable patient experience possible.
Can Cysts Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, some cysts cannot be prevented, which is why it is recommended to consult with your doctors about any lumps on your skin to determine which procedure can best treat it. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent certain types of cysts from forming, such as:
- Washing your face and body thoroughly to prevent pore and gland clogging
- Avoid piercings to avoid cysts and infections
What Is Recovery Like after Cyst Removal?
If there is any recovery involved, it depends on the method used and probably the size of the cyst. Aspiration usually doesn’t require any recovery beyond keeping the site clean if on the surface. If the cyst was surgically removed, these are typically only minimal incisions, and they can usually be closed with just a single suture or even only a bandage.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been experiencing discomfort from a cyst, or would like a doctor at the Rendon Center to provide expertise regarding your cysts, don’t hesitate to contact us today! Our team is eager and ready to help you feel your best!
