Why might a sebaceous cyst recur? (photo)

Doctor's Answers 1

Thanks for the question.

A sebaceous cyst is a lump in the skin that consists of a closed sac with whitish contents within the sac. On the scalp, a pilar cyst, which is a cyst that arises from the hair follicule, can look very similar to a sebaceous cyst.

Cysts have a cyst wall or lining that produces the contents of the cyst. In order to get rid of a cyst, the cyst should be excised and the cyst wall removed to prevent further recurrence of the cyst. Simply extracting the contents of the cyst without removing the cyst wall can flatten the cyst but it will invariably recur as the cyst contents will re-accumulate as they are produced by the cyst wall or lining of the cyst.

So the definite way to remove a cyst is to excise it, together with the cyst wall, to prevent further recurrence of the cyst.

Similar Questions

What should I do next for a cyst on my cheek?

Thanks for the question. I do think that you should see your dermatologist or gp early to get the cyst examined. That is is becoming red and painful is an indication that it may be becoming infected or inflamed. Your doctor will assess to see if antibiotics are required or if drainage or excision of the cyst is necessary.

Photo of Dr Colin Theng

Answered By

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

How to remove cyst on cheek? (photo)

It would be best to get that skin lesion examined and treated as soon as you can. Treatment is aimed at treating infection and resolving the inflammation as the sequelae would be scarring. Depending on the examination, treatment can include coverage with antibiotics, injection to minimize inflammation, drainage of the lesion and surgical excision. I do not think tea tree oil would do much in the treatment of this condition. Hope that helps. All the best.

Photo of Dr Rui Ming Ho

Answered By

Dr Rui Ming Ho

Aesthetic

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