There are many different types of cysts that form on the body, and while some are serious, sebaceous cysts are almost always benign. They are rarely painful but can be irritated when they rub against other clothing or skin. Although generally harmless, they can become infected, requiring medical intervention. When they occur on the face or scalp, they can become an aesthetic concern and cause you to feel self-conscious about your appearance. Sebaceous cyst removal at Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery eliminates the cyst and potential for cyst infection.

What Are Sebaceous Cysts?

Sebaceous cysts originate in the sebaceous gland. The grow slowly under the skin and appear as a yellowish to white bump. You can frequently find them on the face, scalp and ears, but they also occur on the torso or back. In fact, sebaceous cysts can appear almost anywhere, except your hands and feet.

Sebaceous glands produce the oil and lipids – called sebum – that prevent your skin from losing water. As tempting as it may be to try to squeeze a sebaceous cyst, doing so invites infection, scarring and likely will not get rid of the cyst. It’s better to have the cyst removed by a plastic surgeon for cosmetic and safety reasons.

Dallas Epidermoid Cyst Treatment

Epidermoid cysts differ slightly from sebaceous cysts, although they may look similar on the outside. Where sebaceous cysts come from the sebaceous glands, epidermoid cysts originate in the skin and are filled with skin components, like keratin. Despite the differences, it is still quite common for the term epidermoid and sebaceous to be used interchangeably.

Both types of cysts have similar risks of infection, and both require surgery to ensure permanent removal. The precision of a plastic surgeon ensures the cyst wall, or the sac that surrounds the cyst, is completely removed. If the sac is not removed, the cyst will regrow – which is why squeezing will not eliminate the cyst.

Sebaceous and epidermoid cyst removal is a delicate procedure because the cyst must be removed in its entirety, but it is also one of the procedures that can use small incisions relative to the size of the cyst. Dr. Azouz, a board certified plastic surgeon, uses effective techniques to minimize scarring and offers excellent cosmetic results. If you have a sebaceous cyst in need of removal, contact Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery today.