Cyst Removal

What is a cyst?

A cyst is a skin bump that’s usually relatively soft and easily manipulated. There are hundreds of unique types of cysts, but when it involves the skin., most cysts are epidermoid cysts. These cysts commonly develop when the cells in your outermost layer of skin move downwards (deeper under the skin) instead of shedding. 

Those cells then create cyst walls. When you produce a natural protein called keratin, it fills the cyst walls and creates the bump. Keratin is the yellowish-white material that comes out of cysts when they rupture.

Skin cysts are usually benign (noncancerous), but they can still cause problems that might require cyst removal. 

When might I need cyst removal?

Cyst removal is a personal choice. For the most part, cysts aren’t harmful or dangerous. However, many people find them uncomfortable, inconvenient, or embarrassing. 

If you have a cyst that bothers or upsets you in any way, the experienced team of board-certified dermatologists at Allan Mineroff, MD, PC, can perform a skin exam and help you determine whether a cyst removal procedure is right for you. 

How does cyst removal work?

Cyst removal is an in-office procedure at the office of Allan Mineroff, MD, PC. The team administers a local anesthetic, which keeps you comfortable during the cyst removal. Sometimes the process involves a small incision in the cyst and drainage to remove all the cyst contents. 

As long as the cyst wall remains beneath the skin, it can refill, and the cyst may eventually recur. For that reason, the team often recommends the removal of the entire cyst sac (the cyst wall).

Depending on the size of the cyst, you may need a few stitches following the removal procedure.Allan Mineroff, MD, PC, offers cyst removal and other dermatological services fully focused on your unique individual needs, so if you have a cyst that’s worrying you, call the office or click on the online scheduler for compassionate care now.