What causes Sebaceous Cysts?
A Sebaceous Cyst can form when skin cells move deeper into the skin and become trapped. Instead of shedding normally, they multiply and produce keratin, which becomes trapped beneath the skin, forming a cyst.
These skin cells can become trapped for reasons that include:
- skin trauma or injury
- blocked hair follicles or oil glands
- genetic predisposition
- hormonal changes
- acne-prone skin
Treatment Options
Sebaceous cysts can be removed using either laser treatment or surgical excision, with the most suitable approach depending on the cyst’s size, location and overall condition. Laser treatment is often considered for cysts on the face or scalp, while cysts on other areas of the body may be better managed with a surgical approach.
It’s important to recognise that treatment can vary based on several factors, including the cyst’s location, an individual’s skin type and healing ability, and the possibility of recurrence after removal. In some cases, even if laser treatment is chosen initially, surgical excision may be recommended if the cyst returns.
Laser Sebaceous Cyst Removal
Laser cyst removal is typically reserved for cysts located on the face or scalp, where minimising scarring is a priority. An ablative laser is used to create a very small entry point into the central part of the cyst, allowing access so the contents can be expressed. Following this, forceps may be used to attempt removal of the cyst sac.
However, because the laser entry point is small, there is no guarantee that the entire cyst sac can be fully removed. If any portion of the sac remains, there is a risk that the cyst may return. The advantage of this technique is that the resulting scar is usually minimal and comparable in size to the laser entry point, which is why some individuals choose laser treatment initially and consider surgical excision as a backup option if recurrence occurs.
During the healing process, any remaining sac tissue may naturally break down, attach to the forming scab and come away as the scab heals and falls off. In some cases, the scab and any residual sac tissue may need to be removed professionally in-clinic.
Patients should be aware of the following considerations with laser removal:
- There is a possibility of recurrence, particularly if part of the cyst sac remains.
- Infected or inflamed cysts cannot be treated with laser and must first be managed to allow the area to settle.
- Because the laser ablates the tissue, no specimen is available for pathology testing, which may be important in certain cases.
Treatment process
Your treating nurses will first discuss the risks, procedure details and anticipated healing process.
Before laser treatment commences, a topical numbing cream is applied to the area and allowed to take effect. For additional comfort, a local anaesthetic (administered via needle) may be administered to numb the area fully.
Once the area is numb, the Laser treatment will commence and take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Patients should allow about one hour for their appointment, though, as additional time is required for the consultation and preparation.
If the cyst is successfully removed, depending on the level of inflammation, patients may also receive a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) therapy session to help minimise inflammation and support healing.
After-Care
After treatment, you will be given verbal and written after-care instructions.
You will also be given a topical healing cream to apply to the treated area three to four times daily until the skin has fully healed.
Keep the treated area dry until the scab has completely fallen away and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for at least four weeks after treatment.
Avoid using active or irritating skincare products on the treated area. This includes products containing tretinoin, retinol, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, bleaching creams or chemical peels for at least two weeks after the procedure.
Avoid friction or rubbing on the treated area for several days after treatment.
If you notice any unusual signs of infection, inflammation or unexpected side effects, please get in touch with our clinic as soon as possible. If you require medical assistance after hours, please attend your local medical centre or emergency department.
Healing
Following Laser treatment, it is normal to experience redness, swelling, bruising, mild bleeding or slight weeping at the treatment site. These symptoms may last for several days and are a normal part of healing. The treated area may also feel slightly sore and tender for a few days following the procedure.
A scab will develop over the treated area a day or two after the procedure, then fall away a week or two later. You mustn’t interfere with the scab in any way, as this can increase inflammation and the likelihood of scarring.
Once the scab has gone, the underlying skin may appear red, which is a normal part of the healing process. This redness usually subsides gradually over several weeks to months.
Potential Risks
Complications following cyst removal are uncommon; however, they include the possibility of the cyst returning after treatment, especially if a portion of the cyst sac remains. Infection is also possible, though rare, when proper after-care instructions are followed. Changes in skin pigmentation (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation) may occur. In some instances, particularly in those prone to abnormal scarring, hypertrophic or keloid scarring may occur. For more risks associated with
Surgical Sebaceous Cyst Removal
This is a general overview of surgical cyst removal. During the procedure, the cyst and its surrounding sac are carefully excised through a small incision. In some cases, stitches may be required and if clinically indicated, the removed cyst can be sent for pathology testing.
This method aims to remove the cyst with the sac intact, which can help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Surgical removal may be considered for:
- Larger or deeper cysts
- Cysts that have become inflamed or infected (once appropriately treated and settled)
- Cysts located on areas of the body other than the face or scalp, as well as cysts on the face or scalp that are resistant to laser treatment or have returned following previous laser removal
- Cases where laser removal has been unsuccessful
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks to consider, including:
- Scarring (which may be more noticeable depending on the location and healing response)
- Infection
- Bleeding or bruising
- Wound healing complications
- Recurrence of the cyst, even after removal
For more detailed information, please refer to our Potential Risks and Complications page.
Treatment Costs
The cost of Sebaceous Cyst Removal depends on factors such as the cyst’s size, location, the required treatment method and the complexity of the procedure. In some instances, we may recommend additional treatments, such as LED Light Therapy, medications, or follow-up care, to support healing.
To determine cost, all patients must have an in-clinic consultation. During this time, we can assess the cyst, recommend the most appropriate treatment and provide an accurate quote for the procedure.
