Minimal Incision Technique for Epidermoid Cysts Removal by Cosmetic Surgeons in Beverly Hills

Lap Band Surgery Guide

Minimal Excision Technique for Epidermoid (Sebaceous) Cysts

Epidermoid cysts are asymptomatic, dome-shaped lesions that often arise from a ruptured pilosebaceous follicle. The minimal excision technique for epidermoid cyst removal is less invasive than complete surgical excision and does not require suture closure. The procedure is easy to learn, and most physicians experienced in skin surgery can perform the procedure after three to five precepted sessions. It involves making a 2- to 3-mm incision, expressing the cyst contents through compression and extracting the cyst wall through the incision. The rarity of associated cancer makes histologic evaluation necessary only if unusual findings or clinical suspicion of cancer is present. Inflamed cysts are difficult to excise, and it is often preferable to postpone excision until inflammation has subsided.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is an epidermoid cyst?

An epidermoid cyst is a benign (not cancer), slow-growing skin growth that results from injury to a hair follicle in association with acne, from a defect in the skin or from injury to the skin beneath the skin surface. The cyst contains a cheesy yellow material. Rupture of the cyst can release some of the cheesy material into the skin, resulting in a reaction that produces redness, tenderness and swelling.

Where are epidermoid cysts commonly found on the body?

Epidermoid cysts commonly appear on acne-prone areas of the face, neck and upper trunk. Cysts may also be found on the scrotum, behind the ears or on the scalp. Epidermoid cysts are rarely found on the fingers, palms of the hands or soles of the feet. Miniature epidermoid cysts (called milia) can develop in skin that is injured or scraped.

Are there any problems or complications associated with epidermoid cysts?

Ruptured cysts can cause skin scarring and discomfort. Rarely, cysts can develop an associated Skin Cancer. Epidermoid cysts are often a cosmetic problem or a cause of embarrassment for people. One of the major problems comes from growths that appear to be benign epidermoid cysts but are actually more aggressive skin tumors.

What is the minimal excision technique?

This simple, effective surgical procedure removes the cyst wall and the cheesy material inside the cyst. If the entire cyst wall is removed, the chance of the cyst coming back is low. A tiny cut is made in the skin following the administration of local anesthesia (numbing medicine). The cyst contents are squeezed out and the cyst wall is pulled through the tiny skin opening. The skin opening is so small that sutures (stitches) are often not needed to close the wound.

Is the minimal excision technique always successful in removing the cyst wall?

The doctor may not be able to pull the cyst wall through the small skin incision. Cysts that have been inflamed or previously ruptured may have extensive scarring around the cyst wall and be more difficult to remove. If the cyst wall can't be removed, your doctor will perform a standard removal technique through a larger incision.