Finding any unusual lumps and bumps on your skin can be alarming, and it’s always best to get them checked out by a specialist. Often, these lumps are harmless cysts, but we understand that many people prefer to have them removed.
The team at The Dermatology Clinic are experts in this field – get in touch today to find out how we can help.
Based on London’s renowned Harley Street, Dr Daniel Glass and his team of dermatologists are experts in cyst removal and use effective treatment methods to ensure you feel confident in your own skin.
Epidermoid cysts
An epidermoid cyst is a benign, fluid or semi-fluid filled lesion most commonly found on the face, neck, back or scalp. They take the shape of a small, smooth bump under the skin and are not usually painful.
Pilar cysts
A pilar cyst has the same appearance and feel of an epidermoid cyst, but the lining is composed of cells similar to those found on hair roots. These cysts are most frequently found on the scalp.
Epidermoid and pilar cysts treatment
Although epidermoid and pilar cysts are benign and usually don’t pose any threat to your physical health, you may feel self-conscious about the way they look, which is why The Dermatology Clinic team offers cosmetic cyst removal treatment. Some cysts, however, can become infected or inflamed, in which case you be prescribed a course of antibiotics before the cyst is removed.
Whether your cyst is infected or makes you feel self-conscious, we provide a number of excellent treatments to safely remove the lesion and boost your self-esteem.
Surgical removal
If you find your epidermoid or pilar cyst distressing, we may recommend surgical removal. This will take place in a simple outpatient procedure and there are two main approaches:
1. Traditional excision
During this procedure, one of our expert dermatologists will apply a local anaesthetic to numb the area being treated. They will then use a scalpel to cut the skin and carefully remove the cyst.
2. Incision and drainage
If your cyst has become infected and is causing you pain, incision and drainage may be the best course of action, in conjunction with a round of antibiotics. During this procedure a small incision will be made and the cyst cut so that its contents can be squeezed out. Please note that there is a high chance of recurrence unless the wall of the cyst is removed fully. When the cyst is inflamed it is more difficult to remove all of the cyst wall as it is much more fragile.
Visiting The Dermatology Clinic
During your consultation with one of our dermatologists, they will examine the affected area of skin and gently feel the cyst to determine its type. Occasionally an ultrasound scan is required to ascertain the nature of the swelling. Epidermoid and pilar cysts can be both symptomatic and distressing as they tend to appear in noticeable areas on the skin.
