Cysts are common—and in many cases, harmless. But when they begin to cause pain, swelling, or disrupt daily life, it may be time to consider removal. “While many cysts are harmless, others can significantly affect your daily life,” says Dr. Chagares, a board-certified general surgeon with Premier Surgical Network. “That’s why understanding when to seek treatment is so important.”
Fortunately, several treatments for cysts, including cyst removal surgery, can help those struggling with a cyst disorder rediscover comfort and confidence.
Common Types of Cysts
Most people are affected by one of several common types of cysts:
- Epidermoid cysts: Often found on the skin, especially on the face, neck, and trunk
- Sebaceous cysts: Occur in oil-producing glands, commonly on the scalp, face, and back
- Ganglion cysts: These usually develop on or near joints and tendons, particularly in the wrists and hands. Hand surgeons more commonly treat this.
- Ovarian cysts: Form in or on the ovaries, often during the menstrual cycle
While most cysts treated surgically at The Premier Surgical Network are skin or joint-related, ovarian cysts present different clinical considerations and are typically managed by gynecologists.
Signs You May Need Cyst Removal
Many cysts are harmless and will resolve on their own. However, if you notice certain symptoms, it may indicate a cyst needs medical attention and possibly removal. These are some of the signs and symptoms to watch for:
- Appearance & Skin Changes
- Redness, swelling, or warmth around the cyst
- Skin color changes or irregular shape
- Pain & Physical Discomfort
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- Persistent or increasing pain
- Sharp or shooting pain that affects daily life
- Pain with pressure
- Functional Impact
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- Interference with movement, vision, or joint use
- Difficulty performing routine activities
- Serious Symptoms
- Rupture or drainage with foul odor
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- A cyst larger than 5 cm or growing rapidly
- Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
Only a medical professional can determine whether cyst removal is necessary. Before recommending treatment, your surgeon will assess factors like size, location, growth pattern, and symptoms.
Complications of Untreated Cysts
Leaving a cyst untreated can result in complications ranging from discomfort and infection to more serious, organ-specific issues, depending on the type and location. Generally, cysts may continue to grow, causing increased pain, discomfort, and potential disfigurement. There is also a risk of infection, which can lead to abscess formation, requiring more extensive treatment. In rare cases, some cysts can become malignant.
Location-specific cysts also present unique challenges. For instance, pilonidal cysts, typically near the tailbone, can become chronically infected, forming sinus tracts and making sitting or walking extremely painful. If left untreated, they may require complex surgical procedures and prolonged recovery times.
Ovarian cysts, when large or persistent, can cause serious complications such as ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists on its blood supply, potentially leading to severe pain, nausea, and even loss of the ovary if not treated promptly.
Other location-specific cysts, such as those in the brain or spine, may press on nearby structures as they grow, potentially causing neurological symptoms or organ dysfunction. Most cysts are benign, but leaving them untreated can lead to avoidable complications and more invasive treatment later.
What to Expect After Cyst Removal Surgery
Cyst removal procedures depend on the type, size, and location. Smaller cysts are typically excised with a small incision under local anesthesia, allowing for drainage and removal of the cyst wall. Larger cysts may require more extensive surgery under general anesthesia.
Recovery times following cyst removal can range from a few days for minor procedures to several weeks for more complex surgeries. Aftercare typically involves keeping the area clean and dry, changing dressings as instructed, and taking prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection.
Patients may also need to limit certain activities, especially if the cyst was in an area that affects movement. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal during healing and usually subside within a week or two. Patients should watch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, or fever, and report these to their surgeon immediately.
Explore Treatments for Cysts With Our Expert Surgeons
“Patients who have had the most optimal outcomes recognized a cyst early on and sought treatment right away,” says Dr. Chagares. If you suspect you have a cyst, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. If it is a cyst, the decision to remove it will depend on various factors, including its size, location, growth rate, and associated symptoms, like rapid growth, persistent pain, or changes in appearance.
If your healthcare provider has identified a cyst that may need surgical treatment, The Premier Surgical Network offers expert evaluation and care. Our New Jersey surgeons specialize in the safe, effective removal of complex or symptomatic cysts so you can move forward comfortably and confidently.
