Best Dermatologist for Sebaceous Cyst Treatments in San Francisco
Skin cysts and lesions are abnormal growths, bumps, or lumps that can appear on the skin or just below the skin surface. Cysts are sacs in the skin that fill with fluid or other skin debris such as skin oils from oil glands, dead skin cells, while skin lesions include a broader range of skin growths such as moles, skin tags, warts, and lipomas. Benign cysts and growths on the skin are usually not harmful, however, they may cause discomfort or worry for patients due to continued increase in size over the years, or cosmetic concern due to their presence in an unwanted location on the body. Call to Book Your Appointment for Consultation Today or read on to learn more about cyst treatment at the California Center for Dermatologic Surgery.
How Do We Treat Cysts and Skin Lesions?
In most cases, skin cysts are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. However, if a cyst becomes infected, painful, or grows significantly, medical treatment may be necessary. The following treatment options may be offered for treatment of cysts and lesions.
Incision and Drainage: this is used for inflamed or infected cysts. In this surgical procedure, after injection of a numbing agent, a small incision is made over the cyst to drain its contents and relieve discomfort.
Surgical Excision: This is a method of sebaceous cyst removal, pilar cyst removal, or lipoma removal, where the entire cyst or lesion is cut out with a scalpel to ensure complete removal. The skin is then stitched using sutures to allow the tissue to heal well. The removed tissue is usually sent in for a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of the condition. This procedure is done under local anesthesia, without the need for sedation.
Intralesional Injections: this treatment is usually reserved for inflamed sebaceous and acne cysts, and involves injection of a steroid medication directly into the cyst to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation.
Treatment with Antibiotics: If a cyst is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
Regardless of the choice of treatment, it is important to avoid "popping" or squeezing a cyst at home, as this can lead to infection, inflammation, drainage of pus, formation of scar tissue, and potential problems with complications and recurrence of the treated lesion.
Do I Need Prepare for the Removal Process?
The first step of treating or removal a cyst is to consult with a dermatologist, for proper evaluation of your skin condition. During this appointment, your physician will assess your skin condition, and will discuss the right treatment plan for you. If surgical excision is recommended, you will need to avoid strenuous physical activity for 1-2 weeks after your procedure. You will also need to return for removal of your stitches after 2-3 weeks.
Common Types of Cysts Treated at Our Clinic
There are numerous types of cysts that can develop throughout the body. Common cysts and skin lesions seen and treated in our clinic include the following:
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A sebaceous cyst, also known as an epidermal cyst or epidermoid cyst, is a common non-cancerous growth that develops beneath the skin. It originates from the oil glands (also known as sebaceous glands), which are responsible for producing the oil (sebum) that lubricates and protects the skin and hair follicles. Sebaceous cysts are usually very slow-growing and can occur anywhere on the body. Common sites are face, neck, chest, shoulders, and back. The cysts are filled with cheesy material that consists of dead skin cells, oil, and other substances. Sometimes these cysts become infected or irritated and can grow very rapidly, resulting in pain and irritation that may necessitate drainage with a needle and treatment with antibiotics.
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Pilar cysts are non-harmful (benign) growths that develop just below the surface of the skin. These cysts are typically found on the scalp, but they can also occur on other parts of the body. Pilar cysts are not cancerous and usually do not pose a serious health risk. They are more common in adults and can vary in size from small pea-sized lumps to larger growths.
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Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps found close to the joints of the wrists and hands, although they can also occur in other areas, such as the feet and ankles. These cysts are filled with a thick, gel-like fluid, and they are typically round or oval in shape. These are usually not painful. These types of cysts are usually treated by a hand surgeon or orthopedic (joint) surgeon, because of connection of this cyst with the joint.
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Restylane Kysse is a soft hyaluronic acid product that is used to improve volume of the lips. This product is also used for softening of peri-oral wrinkles commonly referred to as “smokers’ lines”
Is It Right for Me?
The best way to know if removal of your skin growth, lump, or bump is the right treatment for you is to schedule a consultation with your dermatologist.
Before and After Photos
Browse photo gallery for results of cyst removal
Our Office Serves the Entire San Francisco Bay Area Including Oakland, Berkeley, Marin County, the Peninsula and Beyond
Our board-certified dermatologist and experienced medical staff serve the entire bay area, while ensuring the highest standard of care and expertise. See us today for consultation and treatment of your skin cyst and lesions.