A sebaceous cyst is a small non-cancerous lump or bump on the skin. It is usually found on the face, neck, upper chest, and upper back but can also appear on other body parts.
It develops gradually beneath the skin and is dome-shaped and smooth in appearance. It may become infected or inflamed, grow in size, and emit a foul odour, sometimes with an accompanying discharge of a cheese-like substance. The inflammation can cause the skin to be tender and sore. Treating this issue is often recommended to alleviate discomfort and improve the skin’s appearance.
A sebaceous cyst is usually found in the face, neck, upper chest, and upper back. It develops slowly and isn’t life-threatening but can be a source of discomfort when it becomes infected or inflamed.
The sebaceous gland produces sebum, an oil-like substance that coats hair and skin. A cyst usually develops if the gland or its duct is blocked or damaged. The damage or blockage to the gland or its duct is typically the result of trauma to the area.
The trauma may be in the form of a scratch, surgical wound, or even a skin condition like acne. As a sebaceous cyst develops slowly, an individual may not realise its presence because the trauma caused to the area may have occurred some time ago.
A sebaceous cyst may also be caused due to:
• misshapen or deformed ducts:
• damage to the cells as a result of surgery
• genetic conditions, such as Gardner’s syndrome or Basal Cell Nevus syndrome
Depending on its size, a cyst is typically not painful. Large ones can cause discomfort and pain, particularly on the face and neck. Most sebaceous cysts are soft to the touch and contain keratin, a component that makes up skin and nails.
A sebaceous cyst can be removed by drainage or surgery. Although it is generally not dangerous or harmful, its removal usually concerns cosmetic reasons. Surgery is the best option as it eliminates the chances of the cyst reappearing. Still, some people prefer not to opt for surgery because it can cause scarring.
The methods of removal a doctor may opt for include:
• A conventional wide excision as this completely removes a cyst but can leave a long scar
• Minimal excision where there is minimal scarring but does not guarantee that the cyst will not reappear
• Laser with punch biopsy excision uses a laser to make a small hole drain the cyst. Its outer walls are removed about a month later
After a sebaceous cyst removal, an antibiotic ointment may be given to prevent infection. It is advisable to use it as directed until healing is complete. A scare cream may also be dispensed to help reduce the appearance of surgical scars (if any).
Typically, there are no complications or side effects after drainage or surgery. However, the cyst can still recur.
Some telltale signs that a sebaceous cyst may be infected are:
• Signs of redness
• Tender to the touch
• Discomfort or pain
• The cyst is draining or leaking pus
If a sebaceous cyst ruptures, it can lead to an infection that would require immediate attention.
An untreated infected sebaceous cyst can potentially lead to complications like an abscess.
An infected cyst can be treated with antibiotics in the form of oral medication, topical cream, or both. If this fails, the issue can be addressed by drainage or surgery.
An infected sebaceous cyst will not heal until it is removed by drainage or surgery. Without treatment, it can be present for a long time and may even cause discomfort or pain.
A patient will be given the option of having the cyst drained or surgically removed. Surgery is usually the best option for reducing the likelihood of recurring issues, but it is not necessarily the most popular as it can cause scarring.
The methods the doctor may opt for are a conventional wide excision, minimal excision, or laser with punch biopsy excision. These will be discussed with the doctor, and a patient should raise any questions to alleviate any concerns. Post-treatment care will also be advised by the doctor.
Surgery is a practical, safe, and effective method of sebaceous cyst removal. It reduces the chance of the cyst recurring. While some people may not be comfortable with the option as it can cause scarring, a patient should give considerable thought and discussion with the doctor.
A cyst can cause discomfort and pain. Without treatment, like surgical removal, it can potentially lead to other complications.
Before surgery, a patient is advised to follow the doctor’s instructions, including shaving hair from the infected area and cleaning it. During the procedure, the patient can expect:
• To be placed under local anaesthesia
• A tiny incision is made in the skin to remove the cyst
• Stitches to be made after the cyst has been addressed
• The wound to be bandaged
The procedure is usually done within 30 minutes. The discomfort or pain will be minimal and can be regulated with painkillers.
At Amaris B. Clinic, we provide sebaceous cyst removal. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.