Sebaceous cyst removal is a procedure we offer here at Avana Plastic Surgery. While a sebaceous cyst is a harmless growth, it may not feel so harmless for your self-esteem if a visible lump is making you self-conscious about your appearance. People often point out or question these cysts out of concern because they can easily be confused for cancerous growths. Constantly being asked why you have a suspicious bump on your face or body can be embarrassing and tiring.
Our skilled surgical team offers cyst removal that's as minimally invasive as possible. In this article, we'll discuss causes and symptoms of sebaceous cysts before going over permanent treatment options.
Sebaceous cysts form as a result of damaged or blocked ducts in the sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are responsible for producing an oily substance called sebum that keeps our skin from drying out. Sebaceous cysts usually develop along hair follicles. The reason why sebaceous cysts can form essentially anywhere on the body is that sebaceous glands are located in nearly every part of the body. Only the palms and certain parts of the feet are without them!
This kind of cysts often develop after a person experiences a deep scratch, surgical wound, acne, or something similar that damages the skin. Cysts can also form because of misshapen ducts. While many people believe that certain foods can trigger sebaceous cysts, there's no evidence linking cyst formation to diet. The idea that eating greasy foods can cause sebaceous cysts is a myth.
Sebaceous cysts don't generally produce a wide range of symptoms. The main symptom is a small, visible lump just under the skin. These lumps aren't usually painful. However, some do become tender to the touch if they become inflamed or irritated. Some people notice that the skin surrounding the cyst feels warm. Sebaceous cysts usually form on the scalp, face, neck, and back.
It goes without saying that you should see a healthcare provider immediately if you notice lumps or growths on your skin. When diagnosing a suspected sebaceous cysts, a healthcare provider will perform an examination. If the lump appears suspicious, a biopsy may be used to confirm that it is a sebaceous cyst. If signs of infection are present, a skin culture may be recommended. A lump that is diagnosed as a sebaceous cyst is generally considered a cosmetic issue unless an infection is present.
Most people seek sebaceous cyst removal from a Miami plastic surgeon for cosmetic reasons. They simply don't like the appearance of a visible lump somewhere on the face or body. However, this procedure can also help to reduce risks for recurring infections. Cyst removal is ultimately a proactive approach for looking out for your health and appearance!
People often want to know if there's a way to make sebaceous cysts go away. It's possible for some sebaceous cysts to resolve naturally. However, this isn't the norm. Most cysts will continue to grow on their own for the rest of your life unless you seek treatment. The only treatment offered by doctors for sebaceous cysts is generally steroid treatment. While steroid injections can help to resolve pressure and inflammation, they don't actually drain or remove the cyst. Only surgical removal can get rid of a sebaceous cyst.
Avana Plastic Surgery offers a variety of sebaceous cyst removal options. During your consultation, we'll examine your cyst to use its size, location, and other characteristics for making a recommendation for the best way to remove it. When treating sebaceous cysts, our focus is always on providing long-term results that require as little scarring and downtime as possible..
An option for someone seeking sebaceous cyst removal without scarring, a laser-aided excision uses a minimal incision made with a laser to create a small hole in the cyst. The hole enables the surgeon to drain the cyst of its fluid.
The conventional wide excision is a more comprehensive surgical option that removes the cyst completely without draining it. Sutures are used to close the incision. While modern techniques allow us to produce scarring that's as minimal as possible, this procedure does leave behind a long scar in the spot where the cyst was removed.
Minimal excision is a pared-down version of the conventional wide excision. While the cyst is still surgically removed without draining, a smaller incision is used in the skin over the cyst. Sutures are not needed to close the incision.
During a punch excision procedure, a small hole is made in the skin to remove cyst content. The opening made is smaller than the opening made with a traditional excision. Patients often enjoy less scarring and faster healing. In addition, this procedure allows for the full removal of the cyst wall to reduce chances for recurrence.
Sebaceous cyst removal is considered a minimally invasive treatment that can be done during an in-office visit. Recovery time is dependent upon the type of procedure used. However, most patients are fully recovered in two to four weeks. Patients are generally advised to avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for up to a month following surgery. They will also be given instructions for properly caring for incision wounds.
Costs for sebaceous cyst removal vary based on the procedure used, the complexity of the surgery, and a number of other factors. Generally, sebaceous cyst removal Miami prices range from $500 to $1,000. Be wary of any provider willing to give you a cost estimate online or over the phone. A proper estimate can only be given after a patient evaluation has been done.
A cyst can feel like a conversation starter in all the wrong ways. Don't let a sebaceous cyst leave you feeling self-conscious. Removal can be easy! Avana Plastic Surgery offers excellent care at our state-of-the-art South Florida cosmetic surgery office. Contact us today for a consultation!
