Cyst Removal

Cysts can form for different reasons. The exact cause depends on the type of cyst and where on the body they have developed.

In skin cysts, such as epidermoid or pilar cysts, some of the cells in the top layer of skin produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its strength and flexibility.

Normally, these cells move up to the surface of the skin as they start to die so they can be shed. However, sometimes the cells instead move deeper into the skin and multiply, forming a sac. They secrete keratin into the middle of the sac, which forms a thick, yellow paste. This paste can ooze out of the cyst if it is burst.

A person is more likely to develop a skin cyst if they have passed puberty, if they have a history of acne or have sustained an injury to the skin (a damaged hair follicle, for example). However, anyone can develop a skin cyst, regardless of their age, skin health, gender or ethnicity. Skin cysts are not contagious.

More generally, cysts can be caused by:

• Infections
• Inherited diseases
• Genetics
• Chronic inflammation
• Blockages in ducts

Some cysts occur as part of another condition, such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or PKD (polycystic kidney disease).

Depending on the type of cyst, sometimes they can improve on their own. Putting a warm compress on a cyst can help it to drain, speeding up the healing process. However, often medical treatment, such as surgery, is the only option.

Never try to squeeze or pop a cyst. If it is infected, bursting the cyst can risk spreading the infection. A skin cyst can grow back if the sac is left underneath the skin.

We would recommend making an appointment with one of our expert dermatologists here at the Cadogan Clinic to discuss the treatment options open to you.

The best cyst removal treatment depends on the size, location and nature of the cyst.

Excision removal, where the cyst is surgically removed from the body, is the best way of ensuring the whole cyst is removed.

Surgical excision or cryotherapy will permanently remove the cyst targeted by treatment. However, it will not prevent new lumps and bumps from appearing in new locations on the skin.

If a cyst is cancerous, a different course of action may be required. 

We recommend seeking a professional opinion if you have any type of skin lump or bump on your body. If it is painful, itchy or bleeding, we suggest you do so urgently. It should also be seen urgently if it is growing and changing size, shape and colour.

Excision removal and cryotherapy are fast and effective treatments for cysts. 

Medical professionals may also use a needle to drain fluids and other matter from the cyst. However, cysts can refill after being drained. Anyone who has a cyst that continues to refill may want to consider having it surgically removed. 

Medication, such as corticosteroid injection, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation in the cyst.

We recommend booking an appointment with one of our expert dermatologists here at the Cadogan Clinic to discuss which treatment option would be most suitable for you.

Unfortunately, most types of cysts cannot be prevented. However, there are a handful of exceptions.

Women prone to ovarian cysts may be able to prevent new cysts from forming by using hormonal contraceptives. Make an appointment with your GP to discuss this further.

Pilonidal cysts, which appear at the top of the buttocks and are more commonly found in men rather than women, can be prevented from forming by keeping the skin in the affected area clean and dry. Getting up every so often instead of sitting for a long time can also help prevent this type of cyst from developing.

Cleaning the eyelid near the eyelash line with a gentle cleanser and removing all traces of eye makeup before going to bed can help keep the oil ducts in this delicate area from becoming blocked. This may help prevent chalazia.

Here at the Cadogan Clinic, we treat thousands of skin lumps and bumps cases each year, including cysts. Our team of nine highly experienced specialist dermatologists have been handpicked to form one of the best independent dermatology units in the country. Our purpose-built dermatology clinic is conveniently located off Sloane Square.

The Cadogan Clinic’s team of experts will be happy to talk you through the treatment options open to you. Get in touch today to book a consultation with one of our dermatologists for an in-person assessment of your skin.