Cyst excision is a minor, usually outpatient surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia to remove skin or subcutaneous cysts in their entirety—including the sac—to prevent recurrence.
The Procedure
- Anesthesia: The area is numbed with a local anesthetic injection.
- Incision: A small incision is made over the cyst, sometimes using a minimal incision technique for smaller, less invasive removals.
- Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the entire cyst wall and sac to prevent it from growing back.
- Closure: The wound is closed with sutures (stitches), sometimes requiring only one or two, and a bandage is applied.
- Pathology: The excised cyst may be sent for laboratory analysis.
Recovery and Risks
- Recovery: Patients typically go home immediately after. Healing takes a few weeks, with full recovery expected shortly after.
- Aftercare: Avoid swimming or soaking in a bath for about one week.
- Risks: While rare, potential complications include bleeding, infection, scarring, pain, and possible regrowth.
easons for Removal
While many cysts are harmless, they are removed if they become painful, infected, or for cosmetic reasons.
While many cysts are harmless, they are removed if they become painful, infected, or for cosmetic reasons.
- Sebaceous/Epidermoid Cysts: Common on the face, neck, and trunk.
- Ganglion Cysts: Often removed from joints, such as the wrist