Excisions

Cyst Excision

Cysts are sac-like structures that contain fluid or semi-solid material. Sebaceous cysts are common benign (non-cancerous) growths on the skin that develop on the face, neck and trunk regions. Most are harmless, but you may choose to remove a cyst if it causes pain or for cosmetic reasons. Cyst excision is a simple and quick procedure.

The removal of a skin cyst is performed under local anesthesia. Aseptic precautions are taken to prevent infection. Your doctor makes a superficial incision over the cyst, but care is taken not to rupture it during the procedure. Forceps are used to hold the skin. The cyst is isolated by cutting the attached tissue to mobilize and remove it. Your doctor may suture the skin if the cyst is large and would leave a significant blemish. The removed cyst is sent to the laboratory for examination. As with all surgical procedures, cyst excision may be associated with certain complications, which include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, scarring, pain, inflammation and possible regrowth.