Finding a lump beneath your skin can understandably raise questions, particularly if it seems to be getting larger or has been there for some time. Skin cysts are one possible cause, with cysts estimated to affect at least 20% of adults.
There are several different types of skin cyst, and while the term ‘sebaceous cyst’ is widely used, true sebaceous cysts are actually much less common.
But are sebaceous cysts dangerous, and when is it worth having one removed?
While sebaceous cysts are usually harmless, they can grow over time, become inflamed or infected, or simply become bothersome, particularly if they’re in a visible area.
Below, we’ll explain what a sebaceous cyst is, whether it’s something to be concerned about and how sebaceous cysts are removed.
We’ll also look at when professional removal may be worth considering if you’d rather deal with the cyst definitively than continue monitoring it.
What Is a Sebaceous Cyst Made Up Of?
Despite the name, many of the lumps commonly referred to as “sebaceous cysts” aren’t actually true sebaceous cysts.
The British Association of Dermatologists explains that epidermoid and pilar cysts have previously been referred to as sebaceous cysts, although they develop from different cells within the skin rather than the sebaceous glands.
Epidermoid and pilar cysts contain keratin, the same substance found naturally in your hair and the outer layer of your skin. This material builds up inside a sac beneath the skin, creating the smooth, rounded lump that you can see or feel.
True sebaceous cysts are much less common and contain an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands. However, because the term “sebaceous cyst” is still widely used for these types of skin lumps, it’s the term you’re likely to come across when looking into cyst removal.
Are Sebaceous Cysts Dangerous?
In most cases, the lumps commonly referred to as sebaceous cysts are harmless and don’t cause any serious health problems.
Although a cyst may remain small and cause no problems, it can become more troublesome as it grows. Skin cysts can range from smaller than a pea to several centimetres across, and larger cysts may become painful or begin to interfere with everyday activities. A cyst can also become infected, which may cause it to become red or sore.
However, you shouldn’t automatically assume that any lump beneath your skin is a cyst. If you discover a new or unexplained lump, it’s worth having it assessed by a medical professional, particularly if it’s growing or changing.
At The Lagom Clinic, your cyst will be examined before removal. If it has unusual features or there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis, the removed tissue can also be sent to an accredited laboratory for pathology to confirm what it is and rule out other conditions.
So, while sebaceous cysts themselves aren’t usually dangerous, it’s still important to have an unexplained or changing lump properly assessed.
Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can then decide whether removal is worthwhile based on factors such as its size, location and whether it’s causing you any problems.
How Are Sebaceous Cysts Removed?
If a cyst is bothering you, it’s important not to squeeze, puncture or try to drain it yourself. This won’t necessarily remove the cyst itself and can increase the risk of infection.
Instead, sebaceous cysts can be surgically removed through a relatively straightforward procedure, usually carried out under local anaesthetic. A small incision is made in the skin so that the cyst, including its capsule, can be carefully removed before the wound is closed with stitches.
Importantly, removal isn’t simply a case of draining what’s inside the cyst. Research into epidermoid cyst treatment highlights the importance of completely removing the cyst wall to help prevent recurrence.
If part of the capsule remains beneath the skin, the cyst can form again, which is why complete excision is important for reducing the risk of recurrence.
If a cyst is acutely infected, it may need to be drained first, with complete removal carried out once the inflammation has settled. Removing a cyst while it’s actively inflamed can make it harder to remove the entire cyst wall successfully.
At The Lagom Clinic, sebaceous cyst removal is performed under local anaesthetic and typically takes around 20 to 45 minutes.
The complete cyst wall is carefully removed, and the wound is then closed with particular attention to minimising scarring, especially when the cyst is on the face or another visible area. You’ll be able to leave the clinic on the same day.
When Should You Consider Sebaceous Cyst Removal?
If a sebaceous cyst is small, isn’t causing any discomfort and has been assessed as harmless, you may not need to have it removed. However, you may decide that removal is worthwhile if the cyst is:
- continuing to grow
- causing pain or discomfort
- repeatedly becoming inflamed or infected
- interfering with everyday activities
- in a visible area and affecting your confidence
- something you’d simply prefer to have dealt with rather than continue monitoring
You don’t have to wait until a cyst becomes painful or causes a medical problem before considering removal. Once it has been properly assessed, choosing to remove a harmless cyst can also come down to your comfort, appearance and personal preference.
If you’d prefer to have it removed rather than wait to see whether it becomes more troublesome, professional sebaceous cyst removal offers a definitive way to deal with the cyst.
How Can The Lagom Clinic Help?
If you’ve decided you’d like to have your sebaceous cyst removed, The Lagom Clinic offers a straightforward, one-stop approach.
There’s no need for a separate GP consultation. You can book directly for your procedure, which will be carried out under local anaesthetic by Mr Alex Trevatt, our plastic surgeon, or Dr Jack Ogden. Most removals take around 20 to 45 minutes, and you’ll be able to leave the clinic the same day.
For cysts on the face or other visible areas, particular attention is paid to help minimise scarring. Any necessary follow-up, including stitch removal or a wound check, is also included in the price.
Book your sebaceous cyst removal online or call 0117 987 2075 to speak to The Lagom Clinic team.
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