Removing a sebaceous cyst, what do I need to know?

• Removing a sebaceous cyst is a simple, quick procedure that does not require hospitalisation.
• The removal of a sebaceous cyst can be performed for aesthetic reasons or because of discomfort caused by the cyst.
• Postoperative care after the removal of a sebaceous cyst is simple but very important.

A sebaceous cyst is a benign cyst composed of dead skin material and keratin sheets.

A sebaceous cyst occurs when cells from the surface of the first layer of skin (epidermis) remain within the skin (dermis) and multiply instead of exfoliating and renewing themselves.

Sebaceous cysts grow progressively larger as layers of skin adhere to it; within it, the stagnant skin is transformed into a sebaceous material and the size of the cyst progressively increases over time.

Sebaceous cysts usually occur on the scalp, face, back and groyne, but can occur anywhere on the body.

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A sebaceous cyst is usually left untreated until it becomes infected, grows too large or causes too much discomfort. They are also often removed for purely cosmetic reasons, without the need for infection or excessive growth.

A sebaceous cyst does not disappear on its own, it remains and usually grows gradually.

If the cyst is infected, it is necessary to remove it. If you have symptoms of pain, redness and heat in the area of the cyst, it is likely that the cyst is infected, so it is advisable to see a doctor.

It is important to contact your doctor if you have unusual symptoms or if your symptoms last too long.

In any case, it is advisable to see your doctor in case of:

• You have a high fever.
• Pain that does not stop even with medication.
• The operated area increases in size.
• The operated area turns a strange colour.

You can't prevent them from appearing, but you can follow a series of habits that reduce the likelihood of sebaceous cysts appearing on your skin.

The habits to follow to prevent the appearance of sebaceous cysts can be summed up in a healthy lifestyle.

It is advisable to sleep enough hours and avoid excess sugar to have a strong immune system; it is also advisable to avoid overexposure to the sun and always use sunscreen (better if it can be oil-free).

The most important part is to exfoliate the skin frequently to remove dead skin cells and encourage the skin layers to renew themselves continuously.

When a cyst starts to become infected, steps must be taken to control its inflammation and infection and prevent the problem from getting bigger.

Removing a sebaceous cyst by surgery

The most common solution for infected sebaceous cysts is usually a small surgical incision and drainage procedure.

The cyst is incised and its contents are drained. After several days, when the infection has subsided, the cyst wall is surgically removed to prevent the cyst from developing again. At the end of the surgery, the doctor will usually place a few stitches.

This intervention is a minimal surgical procedure performed on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia. 

The patient can return home as soon as the operation is completed, although depending on the area where the surgery was performed, the patient may need to rest for several days before returning to normal activities to avoid pain and the possibility of any of the stitches popping out.

Occasionally, another fairly recent technique can be used for the removal of sebaceous cysts: carbon dioxide laser vaporisation. 

This technique is usually only carried out in a few cases, when sebaceous cysts are less than 1.5 cm in diameter and when they are very loosely attached to the inner layers of the skin.

The procedure is performed by making a small incision with the laser, after which the sebaceous cyst is drained. In this way, the scar that remains is minimal, sometimes practically nil, which is why this technique offers a great aesthetic advantage over conventional surgery.

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Once the patient is at home recovering from the surgery, it is necessary to take care of the stitches that have been put in. It is very important to take care of the stitches so that they heal properly and do not become infected.

It is necessary to wash the operated area daily with water and neutral soap, then dry it very carefully, avoiding rubbing and trying to gently pat the area with a clean towel or gauze until the area is completely dry.

Afterwards, once the operated area is clean and dry, apply some kind of povidone iodine solution and bandage the area to protect it from knocks or rubbing against clothing.

It is very important to avoid rubbing or bumps in the area; if the operation has been performed in an area that is uncomfortable for walking or other activities, it is advisable to rest until the wound is healed.

Always follow the doctor's instructions regarding healing and hygiene after surgery, regardless of the extent of the surgery.

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