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What is a cyst?
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in your skin or within your body. They contain fluid or other material and most frequently appear in your skin, ovaries, breasts, or kidneys. They are typically not cancerous.
The team at Lumos Dermatology® routinely treats and removes skin cysts, including epidermoid cysts and sebaceous cysts — two common types. Both types usually appear as flesh-colored or white smooth lumps under your skin.
Epidermoid cysts
Epidermoid cysts form when skin cells from the surface move into the deeper layers of your skin and multiply. These cysts are filled with keratin, a yellowish substance. They are usually slow-growing and commonly appear on your face, neck, or trunk.
Sebaceous cysts
Sebaceous cysts are less common than epidermoid cysts. These cysts form inside your skin’s oil glands. The oil glands secrete sebum, an oily substance that keeps your skin from drying out.
When you produce too much sebum, you can get acne. When sebum becomes trapped within a sebaceous gland, it can develop into a pouch filled with a thick substance or a sebaceous cyst. Sebaceous cysts typically occur on the back of your neck, your upper back, or your scalp.
When should I see a dermatologist for my cyst?
If your cyst causes pain or discomfort, suddenly ruptures, or becomes infected, you need to schedule an appointment at Lumos Dermatology® as soon as possible. If the cyst bothers you cosmetically, you can come in to explore removal options.
Your board-certified dermatologist identifies the type of cyst you have and recommends treatment or removal.
What cyst treatments are available?
Depending on the type of cyst you have, your doctor may suggest the following treatment options:
- Injection to reduce swelling
- Incision and drainage
- Minor surgery to remove it
Most cyst removal and treatment takes place in the office. Incision and drainage is a quick way to drain the contents of the cyst, but there’s a chance the cyst will grow back. Cyst removal usually prevents the cyst from returning.
Avoid squeezing or puncturing the cyst at home, as you run the risk of infection. Instead, contact Lumos Dermatology® to schedule an appointment with one of the experienced, board-certified dermatologists.
Call the office or schedule an appointment online today for cyst treatment options.
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