Cysts

Conveniently located to serve Newport Beach and Orange County

The Ocean Clinic provides treatment for cysts at our Newport Beach office in Orange County. Cysts are benign sacs filled with a liquid or semi-liquid substance, most often containing keratin (the protein that hair and nails are made of). They can develop in a variety of locations across the body and scalp and originate from different types of skin tissue.

Types of Cysts

Epidermoid and pilar cysts are two of the most common types of cysts found beneath the surface of the skin.

An epidermoid cyst is a cyst in which the sac is formed by cells originating from the epidermis (top layer of the skin) and can be found almost anywhere on the body. A pilar cyst, on the other hand, is a cyst in which the sac is formed from the outer hair root sheath and most commonly develops on the scalp.

Epidermoid and pilar cysts look like small smooth lumps under the skin surface. They are benign (non-cancerous) and usually cause no harm or problems. Occasionally, they may become infected (when they may become red, inflamed, and painful), leak their contents if punctured or damaged, or become uncomfortable or cosmetically undesirable.

They can usually be removed easily by a small operation done under local anesthetic.

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Dr Reinstadler is so sweet and she is a great doctor! I went to her to get a cyst removed from my arm. She did an amazing job, just a tiny incision with minimal scarring after just a few weeks. I got the good news of a benign cyst within days, it was such an efficient and quick process. She and her staff were very professional. The office is clean and beautiful with stunning ocean views! My husband also went in to remove a questionable mole from his nose that also turned out to be benign. I plan to go to her again for 2 more cyst removals in the near future. Highly recommended!

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What Are the Symptoms of Cysts?

The appearance of epidermoid cysts and pilar cysts is similar. They are typically spherical and appear just beneath the skin’s surface. They can be yellow or white and can be as small as a pea or up to 3cm in size. Epidermoid cysts often have a central punctum, which is a tiny opening that looks like a blackhead. Often a whitish-yellow debris can be expressed from the central punctum.

Cysts typically grow slowly and are asymptomatic; however, they can become infected and quickly develop swelling, tenderness, and redness. When this occurs, an “Incision and Drainage” procedure may be required to expel the contents within the cyst.

Who Is at Risk for Developing Cysts?

Anyone can develop epidermoid cysts, but young and middle-aged adults are the most commonly affected. They can develop on any part of the body, although they’re most prevalent on the chest, face, neck, and upper back.

Pilar cysts can also occur in anyone, although they occur more frequently in females in their forties and fifties. They can appear anywhere on the skin, though the scalp is the most common site of development. It is also common for several to appear on the scalp at the same time.

What Is Cyst Removal Like?

Cysts can often be easily removed with a simple procedure called a surgical excision. A local anesthetic is injected into the surrounding skin to numb it. Over the cyst, a tiny incision is made, and the cyst is removed. After that, the incision is sutured closed. There will be a post-surgical mark as a result.

Benefits of Cyst Removal Procedures

Here are some benefits of undergoing these procedures:

Relief from Discomfort: Cysts, particularly when they grow larger, can cause discomfort or pain. Removing these cysts can alleviate these symptoms.
Prevention of Infections: Cysts can become infected, leading to painful abscesses that may require more intensive treatment. Removing cysts before they become infected can prevent these complications.
Improved Cosmetic Appearance: Cysts can be unsightly, especially if they are in visible areas such as the face, neck, or arms. Removal can help improve the cosmetic appearance and boost self-confidence.
Reduced Risk of Recurrence: Epidermoid and pilar cysts can recur if not completely removed. Surgical removal typically involves extracting the entire cyst sac, significantly reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
Prevention of Rupture: Cysts can rupture spontaneously, which can be painful and lead to inflammation or scarring. Removing a cyst can prevent these outcomes.
Quick Recovery: Cyst removal is usually a minor procedure, often performed under local anesthesia with minimal downtime. Most people can return to their normal activities soon after the procedure.

Aftercare Following Cyst Removal

Following a cyst excision, you will be able to drive yourself home without any issues. Wound care instructions will be given, explaining how to care for the surgical site and any limitations of activities.

Contact Us to Learn More

The lump on your skin could be a harmless cyst or something more serious. To address uncomfortable or infectious cysts, Newport Beach and Orange County patients can contact The Ocean Clinic to book a consultation. Our medical experts can provide you with a precise diagnosis and effective treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cysts

How long does it take for a cyst injection to work?

The time it takes for a cyst injection, typically involving corticosteroids, to show results can vary depending on the size and type of the cyst. Generally, patients might start noticing a decrease in cyst size within 3 to 5 days after the injection. Maximum benefits usually occur within 2 to 4 weeks.

Can a cyst come back after cosmetic injection?

Yes, there is a possibility that a cyst can recur after a corticosteroid injection. While these injections are effective in reducing swelling and inflammation, they do not remove the cyst sac itself. This means that the cyst could potentially refill over time.

In some cases, more definitive treatments like surgical removal might be recommended, especially if the cyst recurs or persists despite injections.