Cysts are fluid filled sac like structures that can develop just about anywhere in the body. They are very common lesions which feel like bumps under the skin.They can also feel hot or tender as well. For the most part, cysts are harmless. In rare cases they can get infected. Sometimes they can rupture and cause painful inflammation. Whether or not you are looking for cosmetic benefits or to treat more serious issues, the Office of Dr. U offers reliable and highly effective cyst removal procedures.
How Do Cysts Develop on the Skin?
Los Angeles cyst removal patients are encouraged to learn about different options for treatment
Cysts may develop due to injuries or infections that affect the hair follicle or sebaceous glands. Damaged follicles may be blocked by cells on the surface of the skin.
Sebaceous glands produce oil that coats the hair shaft and keeps the skin moist. These glands can become clogged or ruptured by acne inflammation. In particular, these cysts are referred to as sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts.
It is also possible for cysts to develop around ear piercings.
Types of Cysts
Fine Touch Dermatology can address many types of cysts found on different areas of the body including:
1) eyelid (Sudoriferous cyst)
2) cheeks (Milium)
3) scalp (Trichilemmal cyst)
4) ear (Pseudocyst of auricle)
5) base of nail (Digital myxoid cyst)
6) trunk (Steatocystoma multiplex)
7) lip (Labial mucous cyst)
Other types of cysts include:
1) acne comodones (whiteheads)
2) acne cysts (large acne bumps not affected by inflammation)
3) eruptive vellum hair cysts (small bumps on the skin with fine hair)
4) dermoid cyst (sacs on the skin which contain different structures such as teeth, hair, skin glands and fluid)
Malignant Cysts
Although cysts are mostly benign, it is possible for them to be malignant. However, this is extremely rare. In these cases, the cells within the cysts develop into squamous or basal carcinomas.
Acne Cysts
Acne cysts are often confused with the condition of having severe inflammatory acne. Inflammation causes the pimples to become enlarged and red due to the presence of bacteria. However, acne cysts develop in response to a breakage or tear in the wall of the skin pore. A membrane of cells then develops over this opening, creating a fluid filled cavity.
Risk Factors For Developing Cysts
Cysts can develop in anyone, especially after a traumatic event. But individuals who are most at risk include males past puberty whose skin has been highly exposed to the sun.
Complications From Cysts
When left untreated, it is possible for complications to develop due to existing cysts. Here are a few examples:
- infections
- ruptures which develop into abcesses which resemble boils and must be treated immediately
- inflammation
Cyst Removal Procedures
Cysts can be removed by:
- Lasers. Laser energy can be used to vaporize cyst tissue
- Surgical excision. This involves the removal of the entire cyst through the use of surgical tools. Draining out the fluid may not be sufficient for long term results. The walls of the cyst must be removed as well, or these cells will continue to produce liquid or pus.
- Incision. A small incision is made on the cyst. The contents are then drained. Again, as noted above, recurrence is very likely.
- Injections. Anti inflammatory drugs can be injected into the cyst (if it is inflamed)
Cyst Removal Consultations For Patients in Los Angeles
Fine Touch Dermatology with offices in the Redondo Beach and Beverly Hills cities of greater Los Angeles offers free cyst removal information for those who want to get rid of these lesions. A complimentary initial consultation is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the best treatment option. During your procedure, we would adopt the best technique to remove your cyst.
To get started, fill out our online consultation form at the top of the page. Or you may call our office directly at 877-337-6424 to schedule an appointment.