Scroll Down to watch👇👇

What is the best treatment for a sebaceous cyst?   

Depending on the size of the sebaceous cyst, there are many different options for treatment. The cyst may need to be surgically excised or drained depending on the severity of the cyst. In dermatology, most cysts that are removed are done so because of their cosmetic appearance or because of discomfort.  A board certified dermatologist, like Dr. Green in NYC, will discuss the best treatment available to remove your cyst, based upon her clinical evaluation. Some sebaceous cysts which are quite large or on the face, may require a plastic surgery for cyst removal. The treatment options for cyst removal depends on the anatomic location of the cyst, its size, and whether or not the cyst is already infected. Dr. Green will guide your treatment to provide the best aesthetic as well as medical outcome.

Sebaceous cyst can be removed using the following techniques:

• Incision and drainage – If the cyst is infected, the sebaceous cyst needs to be drained and the infected cyst contents are cultured for antibiotic sensitivity. Oral antibiotics are then given to the patient to treat the infection, which allows the wound to heal. This technique is necessary when the cyst is infected and the possibility of removing the entire cyst may not be possible at the time.
• Intralesional injection with cortisone – Inflamed cysts can be treated with an injection of a steroid solution into the cyst. In a small cyst, the steroid will reduce the inflammation and allow the sebaceous cyst to shrink.
• Minimal excision technique – Removing the cyst with the probability of recurrence and minimal scarring. This technique does not always guarantee that the entire cyst wall is removed.
• Conventional wide excision- This procedure will completely remove all contents of the cyst including the cyst wall but scarring is inevitable.  The area is anesthetized with local anesthesia prior to the surgery. The cyst and its contents, including the entire cyst wall, are removed to prevent any recurrence of the sebaceous cyst.
• After a cyst is removed, Dr. Green prescribes an oral and topical antibiotics for ten days or until the wound is completely healed. Dr. Green also may recommend the VBeam laser to treat any residual redness or scarring.

• Warm Compress: Apply a warm, moist cloth to the cyst for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This can sometimes help the cyst drain naturally.
• Avoid Squeezing: Don’t try to pop or squeeze the cyst. Doing so can lead to infection or worsen the cyst.
• Topical Antibiotics: If the cyst is infected, over-the-counter antibiotic creams like Neosporin can help, but you may need a doctor’s advice for more serious infections.
• Medical Removal: If the cyst doesn’t go away or keeps coming back, it’s often best to get it removed surgically by a doctor. This is typically done under local anesthesia and involves removing the cyst and its sac to prevent it from returning.
• Drainage: If the cyst is large or painful, a healthcare provider might drain the contents to relieve pressure, though this often doesn’t remove the cyst permanently.

What is a Sebaceous Cyst?

A sebaceous cyst is a non-cancerous, closed sac under the skin that’s filled with keratin (a protein). These cysts typically form due to a blocked sebaceous gland, which is responsible for producing sebum (the skin’s natural oil). When the duct becomes blocked, sebum builds up, forming a cyst.

Treatment Options for Sebaceous Cysts:

1. Observation (No Treatment)

• When It’s Not Problematic: If the cyst is small, asymptomatic, and not causing any pain, a healthcare provider may recommend monitoring it. Many sebaceous cysts don’t need treatment unless they cause discomfort or become infected.
• Reference: American Academy of Dermatology, “Sebaceous cysts are usually harmless and do not require treatment unless they become infected or problematic.” (AAD)

2. Warm Compress

• How It Works: Applying a warm, moist compress to the cyst can help it soften and potentially drain naturally. The heat may help to break down the contents inside the cyst.
• Instructions: Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and apply it to the cyst for about 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
• Effectiveness: This method may help the cyst drain if it’s near the surface of the skin, but it won’t eliminate the cyst entirely.
• Reference: Mayo Clinic, “Applying a warm compress may help reduce discomfort and assist in draining the cyst.” (Mayo Clinic)

3. Drainage by a Healthcare Provider

• When It’s Done: If the cyst becomes inflamed, infected, or painful, a healthcare provider may decide to drain it. This involves creating a small incision to remove the contents of the cyst.
• Risks: Although drainage can provide temporary relief, it doesn’t remove the cyst sac, which means it can return.
• Reference: Cleveland Clinic, “A healthcare provider may decide to drain the cyst, but the sac may remain, causing it to reappear.” (Cleveland Clinic)

4. Steroid Injections

• Purpose: If the cyst is swollen or painful, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid directly into the cyst to reduce inflammation and swelling. This can shrink the cyst, but it won’t necessarily remove it entirely.
• How It Works: The steroid injection can help manage inflammation and may make the cyst less noticeable, but it doesn’t always prevent recurrence.
• Reference: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, “Corticosteroid injections are often used for inflamed cysts but don’t eliminate the cyst itself.” (JAAD)

5. Surgical Removal

• Best Option for Long-Term Relief: The definitive treatment for a sebaceous cyst is complete surgical removal. A doctor will remove the cyst and its entire sac (the capsule), which is the most effective way to prevent it from coming back.
• Procedure: This is typically done under local anesthesia, and the healthcare provider will make a small incision to remove both the cyst and the sac.
• Effectiveness: This procedure is considered the most effective for permanently removing the cyst and preventing recurrence.
• Reference: American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, “Surgical excision is the most effective way to completely remove a sebaceous cyst and prevent recurrence.” (ASDS)

6. Antibiotics for Infection

• When Needed: If the cyst becomes infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection. Oral antibiotics or topical treatments like antibiotic ointments can help reduce redness, swelling, and pain.
• Important Note: Antibiotics will not cure the cyst but may help manage symptoms while awaiting further treatment.
• Reference: Mayo Clinic, “Infected sebaceous cysts may require antibiotics for infection control, but the cyst itself often needs to be surgically removed.” (Mayo Clinic)

What Not to Do:

• Don’t Squeeze: Trying to squeeze or pop the cyst can lead to an infection, scarring, and sometimes worsen the condition.
• Don’t Ignore Infection: If the cyst becomes red, warm, or tender, it could be infected, and it’s important to see a doctor for appropriate care.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

• If the cyst is painful, inflamed, or growing quickly.
• If you notice pus, redness, or increased warmth around the cyst, which might indicate infection.
• If the cyst interferes with daily activities or your appearance, you may want to discuss surgical options with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Sebaceous cysts are typically harmless, but treatment is needed if they cause pain, become infected, or persist. While warm compresses and drainage can offer temporary relief, surgical removal remains the most effective long-term solution.

Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your situation.

Let me know if you need any further details or clarification on any of the points!

• Warm Compress: Apply a warm, moist compress to the cyst for about 10-15 minutes, a few times a day. This can help the cyst drain naturally.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the cyst is painful, you might use over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the discomfort.
• Don’t Squeeze: Avoid squeezing or trying to pop the cyst, as this can lead to infection or make the cyst worse.
• Topical Treatments: Sometimes, a healthcare provider might recommend topical antibiotics if there’s an infection, or other treatments like corticosteroid injections.
• Surgical Removal: If the cyst doesn’t go away or becomes bothersome, a healthcare provider might need to remove it surgically. This is the most effective way to treat it long-term.