A fluid-filled cyst is usually harmless, but it can be annoying and painful. If you have a cyst and you’ve been thinking about getting it removed, Unique Dermatology & Wellness Center in Valrico, Florida, offers the expert care you deserve. Dyan Harvey, DO, performs surgical and nonsurgical cyst removal. To find out more, call today or schedule a consultation online.

What are cysts?

Cysts are smooth, fluid-filled bumps that often feel like a pebble under your skin. Cysts are common; almost everyone has one at some point in their life.

You may get a cyst from an infection or a clogged oil gland. Cysts also form around a foreign body, such as an earring. Although some cysts disappear on their own, most remain for a while.

Because of their shell-like outside, cysts can’t be popped like pimples. Trying to remove a cyst at home can lead to an infection and scarring — and the cyst will likely grow back.

What are the types of cysts?

Cysts come in two types: epidermoid and pilar. Pilar cysts usually form on your scalp, caused by swelling around your hair follicles.

An epidermoid cyst is more common in men. This type of cyst appears on your:

• Face
• Neck
• Chest
• Shoulders

These cysts are usually the result of acne or minor skin injuries. If a cyst is swollen and painful, or in an area where it makes you uncomfortable, call Dr. Harvey at Unique Dermatology & Wellness Center to remove it.

How are cysts removed?

There are three primary means to remove cysts. Dr. Harvey evaluates your cyst and its location to decide on the right removal method for you.

She may recommend:

• Drainage: piercing the cyst with a sharp instrument and squeezing out the contents
• Injection: injecting cortisone in the cyst to shrink it
• Surgery: cutting out the entire cyst

Even after treatment, some cysts may grow back. However, cysts taken out through surgery are the least likely to return.

What happens when my cyst is removed?

After you arrive at Unique Dermatology & Wellness Center, Dr. Harvey numbs the area with a local anesthetic. This is to make sure you feel comfortable during the procedure. Once your skin is numb, treatment is straightforward and shouldn’t take long.

If your cyst is infected, Dr. Harvey may prescribe antibiotic pills or creams to treat the infection. For a severe infection, you may need to take antibiotics before your cyst can be removed.

If Dr. Harvey suspects that the bump may not be a cyst, she takes a small tissue sample for testing. Testing helps determine whether the cyst is cancerous or not.

If a cyst has been troubling you, Unique Dermatology & Wellness Center can help. Call today or schedule a consultation online.