Sebaceous Cyst Surgery at YNB Health Care

A sebaceous cyst is a common, slow-growing bump that develops beneath the skin. Typically filled with a protein-like substance, these cysts form when the sebaceous gland, responsible for producing sebum, gets blocked or damaged. Although sebaceous cysts are usually harmless, they can sometimes lead to complications such as infection, pain, or discomfort. In rare cases, they may even become malignant. Therefore, it’s crucial to have them treated and removed properly. At YNB Health Care, we offer specialized sebaceous cyst surgery that ensures effective removal and prevents recurrence.

Sebaceous Cyst Surgery: Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Sebaceous Cysts

The first step in treating a sebaceous cyst is an accurate diagnosis, which involves a thorough physical exam by our experienced dermatologists or surgeons. During this evaluation, your doctor will assess the size, appearance, and location of the cyst. You may also be asked about your medical history, symptoms, and duration of the cyst’s presence.

To further confirm the diagnosis, your doctor might recommend additional tests:

• Ultrasound: This imaging test helps determine the size, location, and internal structure of the cyst.
• Biopsy: If the cyst is suspected to be malignant, a biopsy is performed to collect a sample for laboratory examination.
• Imaging Tests: In rare cases, an MRI or CT scan may be done if the cyst is deep-seated, helping to visualize underlying structures.

Sebaceous Cyst Treatment Options

If a sebaceous cyst causes no symptoms, it may only require monitoring. However, if it grows, causes discomfort, or becomes infected, treatment is necessary. The treatment options at YNB Health Care include:

1. Observation: If the cyst is small and not causing any problems, your doctor may recommend simply monitoring it to ensure it doesn’t grow or cause issues.
2. Drainage: If the cyst becomes inflamed or infected, drainage might be performed to release the fluid or pus inside. However, drainage alone doesn’t remove the cyst wall, which could cause recurrence.
3. Surgical Excision: This is the most effective method. The cyst and its wall are entirely removed, minimizing the chance of recurrence. This method is often preferred for larger cysts or those causing pain.
4. Laser Treatment: A minimally invasive treatment option where a laser vaporizes the cyst and its wall, often resulting in less scarring than traditional surgery.

Types of Sebaceous Cyst Surgery

At YNB Health Care, we provide various types of sebaceous cyst surgeries tailored to the size, location, and severity of the cyst:

• Lancing: A sharp knife is used to make a small incision, allowing the cyst contents to be drained. However, since the cyst wall remains, this method may not prevent recurrence.
• Conventional Wide Excision: This traditional method involves removing the cyst through a wide excision. Though it’s invasive, it has a lower chance of recurrence.
• Minimal Excision: Tiny incisions are made to minimize scarring while removing the cyst completely.
• Punch Excision: The cyst and surrounding skin are removed using a scalpel shaped like a cookie-cutter.
• Laser-Aided Excision: A laser is used to drain the cyst and remove its wall, making it a less invasive option with reduced scarring.

Preparation and Recovery

Before your sebaceous cyst removal surgery, our doctors will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure a smooth process:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least one week prior to surgery to support better healing.
• Do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before the procedure.
• Refrain from using makeup, jewelry, or skincare products around the treatment area.

During the surgery, local or general anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring you are comfortable throughout the procedure. The cyst will be carefully removed, and the incision will be closed with stitches or adhesive, depending on the method used.

After the surgery, you can expect some swelling or bruising around the site, which will subside within a few days. Your doctor will provide post-operative instructions, including a recovery plan and diet guidelines, to speed up your recovery.