Dermal Cyst Excision

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

A dermal cyst excision is a procedure to remove a cyst that has grown under your skin.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Before your procedure:

Informed consent is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
An IV is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.
Local anesthesia is a shot of medicine put into the skin near your cyst. It is used to numb the area and dull the pain. You may still feel pressure or pushing during the procedure.

During your procedure:

An incision will be made on or around your cyst. Your healthcare provider will use his or her fingers to push the fluid out of the cyst. He or she will then use a tool to remove the rest of the cyst sac. If your cyst is infected, he or she may drain it first and then remove it completely another time.
The incision may be closed with stitches or left open to heal. A bandage will be placed over your incision to keep it clean and dry, and to prevent infection.

After your procedure:

You will be taken to a room to rest until you are fully awake. Healthcare providers will monitor you closely for any problems. Do not get out of bed until your healthcare provider says it is okay.

Pain medicine may be given. Do not wait until the pain is severe before you ask for more medicine.
Antibiotics help prevent infection caused by bacteria.
Steroids help decrease inflammation around your incision.

RISKS:

You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. A scar may develop as the incision heals. The scar may become large and raised. Your stitches may come apart. Blood may build up in the incision area and cause a large, swollen bruise. The nerves near your incision may be damaged.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer