Cyst Removal FAQ

The decision to remove a cyst usually comes down to three main factors: symptoms, appearance, or medical necessity. While most cysts are benign (non-cancerous), they rarely disappear on their own and often grow over time.You should consider removal if you notice any of the following:

• Inflammation or Pain: If the cyst becomes tender, red, or sore, it may be infected or at risk of rupturing. 
• Rapid Growth: A cyst that is noticeably increasing in size is more noticeable, bothersome and worrying. 
• Location & Irritation: If the cyst is in a prominent area like the face, or in a spot where it catches on clothing or interferes with movement (such as the neck or beltline).
• Aesthetic Concerns: Many patients choose removal simply because they dislike the look of the lump and want to restore a smooth skin surface. 
• Uncertainty: If you are unsure what the lump is, a medical professional should assess it to rule out more serious conditions.

Clinical Note: It is always better to have a cyst assessed by a doctor while it is "quiet" (not red or inflamed). Removing an infected cyst is more complex and carries a higher risk of the cyst returning. 

It is always preferable to remove cysts while they are still small,  as this tends to result in a smaller scar.

Earlier intervention also avoids the additional risks of infection or rupture. 

Yes. Our popular "See and Treat" service allows you to have a full clinical consultation and the removal procedure within a single appointment, provided the doctor deems it appropriate.

No. As a private specialist centre, you can book directly with us. We provide a full clinical assessment as part of your initial consultation.

Most cysts are removed using a combination of micro excision surgery and laser to achieve the best cosmetic result. Usually we use a technique known as micro excision / short scar technique that involves removing the cyst contents first and then the wall or sac that surrounds it so that the cyst does not recur. A cautery laser is then used to stop any bleeding. The resulting wound will normally require stitches. These can be either dissolvable or non-dissolvable depending on the site of removal. Your cyst removal doctor or surgeon will advise which method of removal is most appropriate for you.

Local anaesthetic is used to ensure the procedure is painless.

The actual removal usually takes approximately 30 minutes although this will vary for larger or more complex cysts.

However, we allow time for the local anaesthetic to take full effect and for your doctor to discuss the aftercare process with you.

Yes, it is not possible to remove a cyst without leaving some form of scar. Scars do fade with time but it is realistic to say there is always a trace.

Our special techniques and combination of surgery and laser are designed to leave a small and neat scar which will heal well, making it far less noticeable than the original cyst for most people.

Cyst removal is relatively simple and many patients return to work or normal activities the same day.

For light exercise, you can usually resume the next day. If you have stitches in an area under tension (like the back or knee), we may advise avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous sport for 1–2 weeks.

For micro excisions we normally advise the following aftercare:

• Keep the wound dry for 2 days
• Dressings can be left for up to a week
• You will be informed as to whether your stitches are dissolvable or need to be removed
• Over 1 to 2 weeks, in areas where the skin is under tension such as the back and legs, it is advisable to reduce exercises which would possibly stretch the wound
• Steri-strips can be applied over the wound for up to 3 weeks to help the wound heal
• After 3 weeks the wound can be massaged with oils or moisturising creams

If there is any increasing pain or redness consult your doctor as it could be a sign of infection.

We don’t normally need to see a patient again after surgery as the wounds heal very quickly.

You will be provided with full aftercare guidance and can get in touch with us if you have any concerns at all.

If you have any problems we will ensure you are dealt with quickly.

Testing is not normally required for cysts, but if there is any concern - either on the part of the doctor or the paient - then we can arrange testing at our independent histology lab.

Results will be sent via encrypted email 1-2 weeks later. 

Cyst removal is considered to be low risk - it is a safe and simple procedure which we carry out in well-equipped facilities.

The risk of infection is low due to our attention to hygiene and sterility. With any surgical procedure however there are still potential side-effects such as infection, bleeding and scarring, which are discussed fully at your appointment so that you can make a fully-informed decision. Rarely, some people with very dark or light skin have an abnormal response to healing and end up with larger scars than usual (hypertrophic or keloid scars).

The doctors at our clinics are experts in dermatological surgery who ensure the highest standards of care.