Skin Cyst Removal

If you have recently come across a mysterious bump underneath your skin without really knowing where it came from, you may be looking at something called a sebaceous cyst. Although quite common and harmless, sebaceous cysts can be bothersome or unsightly, and in some cases if left untreated can become infected or grow large enough to cause discomfort or pain.

If you have a sebaceous cyst that is causing you discomfort or anxiety for any reason, at The Plastic Surgery Clinic, our expert surgeons will remove your cyst with minimal to no scarring. Patients also no longer need a referral from their family doctor in order to book an appointment for the removal of a sebaceous cyst.

What is a Sebaceous Cyst?

A sebaceous cyst is typically a slow growing bump (taking weeks or months to grow) that appears under the skin. It grows out of the sebaceous gland, which is responsible for producing the oil (or sebum) that you find on your skin and hair.

If your sebaceous cyst becomes blocked or injured for any reason, a simple scratch for instance, a surgical wound, or even acne, the result could be a sebaceous cyst. In rare cases a sebaceous cyst can also be caused by certain genetic conditions (i.e Gardner’s Syndrome). Although this type of cyst typically remains relatively small, in some instances it can grow larger, in which case it might become tender or even painful.

Sebaceous cysts are typically found on the scalp, face, neck, chest, or back, but they can also appear in spots such as around or on the ears or the groin area.

The Sebaceous Cyst Removal Procedure

Following a consultation with one of our expert plastic surgeons, which will include a physical examination of your cyst and a medical history, you will then have an appointment scheduled for the removal of your cyst.

On the day of your procedure, your doctor will administer a local anesthetic so that you feel no discomfort or pain. He or she will then make an incision directly over the cyst and surgically remove it. Once removed the small incision will be stitched up. Our surgeons will make sure that the incision is as small as possible in order to ensure no to minimal scarring.

Your doctor will then recommend an at home treatment plan if necessary.

In the rare case that your incision were to get infected, this can be easily treated with antibiotics.

Depending on the type of work that you do and the location from which your cyst was removed, in most cases you can return to your normal work schedule and/or daily activities as long as your work or any other activities don’t put undue stress or pressure on the incision or treated area.

Cost of Sebaceous Cyst Removal

The cost of a sebaceous cyst removal is dependent on the complexity of your case. You will be given a firm quote once one of our surgeons has personally examined you at your consultation.

In some cases OHIP will cover certain minor procedures, however skin cysts are typically not covered by OHIP.

How Long Will Sebaceous Cyst Removal Last?

The results of a sebaceous cyst removal are permanent. As long as the entire cyst has been removed, the cyst will not grow back in the treated area.

To find out more, please contact us by phone or e-mail or by filling out the Request for Information form below.