A cyst is a common, usually harmless lump under the skin. Dr Faizal Secretary can confirm the diagnosis, treat any infection, and arrange removal by minor surgery where appropriate.
GP-led assessment · Minor surgery available · No referral needed
A skin cyst is a smooth, round lump under the skin that is filled with fluid or a soft, cheese-like material called keratin. The most common types are epidermoid and pilar cysts, sometimes called sebaceous cysts. They often have a small central opening (a punctum) and can appear on the face, neck, back, scalp, and elsewhere. Most cysts are harmless and grow slowly.
A cyst is worth having assessed if it is painful, growing, becoming red or inflamed, discharging, or simply bothersome or in an awkward spot. Cysts can occasionally become infected, which makes them red, swollen, and tender. It is also sensible to have any new or changing lump checked so the diagnosis can be confirmed.
Dr Faizal Secretary examines the lump to confirm it is a cyst, treats any infection where present, and discusses your options. A cyst that is troublesome or recurrent can often be removed by minor surgery under local anaesthetic in clinic. Complete removal of the cyst wall gives the best chance of it not returning. Dr Faizal will explain the procedure, the likely result, and aftercare before you decide.
In-clinic removal of cysts and other minor lesions under local anaesthetic.
Learn more →GP-led assessment and treatment of skin problems.
Learn more →Assessment and removal of soft, fatty lumps under the skin.
Learn more →Same-day, unhurried consultations with Dr Faizal Secretary.
Learn more →A cyst is a sac filled with fluid or keratin and often has a small central opening, while a lipoma is a soft lump of fatty tissue. Both are usually harmless, but they feel different and are removed in slightly different ways. Dr Faizal can tell them apart on examination.
Most skin cysts are benign and not dangerous. They can, however, become infected or grow, and any new or changing lump is worth having assessed so the diagnosis can be confirmed.
No. Squeezing a cyst can cause infection, inflammation, and scarring, and it rarely resolves the cyst because the sac remains. It is better to have it assessed and, if needed, removed properly.
A troublesome or recurrent cyst can be removed by minor surgery under local anaesthetic in clinic. Removing the whole cyst wall gives the best chance of it not coming back. Dr Faizal will explain the procedure and aftercare.
An infected cyst becomes red, swollen, and tender. Dr Faizal can assess it and treat the infection first. Removal is usually best carried out once the inflammation has settled.
No. You can book directly with Dr Faizal Secretary, and suitable cysts can often be removed in clinic without a hospital referral.
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