Dealing with a cyst can be uncomfortable and stressful. At Harley Street Medics in London, our experienced dermatologists provide gentle, personalized cyst removal treatments, helping you feel comfortable and confident again.
Cysts are small, fluid-filled sacs or pockets that form beneath the surface of the skin. While usually harmless, cysts can sometimes become painful, infected, or cause aesthetic concerns. They develop for various reasons, including blocked glands, infections, injuries, or genetic factors. Commonly appearing on the face, neck, and back, cysts vary in size and may grow gradually over time. Understanding the type of cyst you have and why it formed is the first step toward effective treatment.
Cysts come in various forms, each with unique features and causes. Below are the most common types encountered in clinical practice:
Epidermoid cysts (Sebaceous cysts):
These are the most common type of skin cysts. They form when epidermal cells multiply beneath the skin instead of shedding naturally. Epidermoid cysts are typically round, firm, and slow-growing, often with a visible central pore. They’re usually found on the face, neck, chest, or back. Though benign, they can become inflamed, infected, or rupture, releasing foul-smelling keratin.
Pilar cysts (Trichilemmal cysts):
Mostly found on the scalp, pilar cysts originate from hair follicle sheaths. They tend to be smooth, mobile, and filled with thick keratin material. These cysts often run in families and are more common in middle-aged women. Pilar cysts are less likely to rupture compared to epidermoid cysts but can grow large over time.
Ganglion cysts:
These are fluid-filled swellings that commonly develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists, hands, ankles, or feet. Ganglion cysts are usually round, firm, and vary in size. They may appear suddenly and fluctuate in size. While painless for some, they can press on nerves and cause discomfort or limited joint movement.
Sebaceous cysts (True):
Often confused with epidermoid cysts, true sebaceous cysts are less common and originate from the sebaceous glands. They are filled with sebum (oily material) and can appear on the face, back, or torso. These may become inflamed or infected, leading to redness, tenderness, and drainage.
Baker’s cyst (Popliteal cyst):
Found behind the knee, a Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling caused by joint inflammation or arthritis. It results from the buildup of synovial fluid in the popliteal space. These cysts can cause tightness or discomfort in the knee, especially when the leg is extended or during physical activity.
Mucous cysts:
Commonly seen on the lips or inside the mouth, mucous cysts develop when salivary glands become blocked or damaged. They’re soft, translucent, and often associated with lip-biting or trauma. While painless, they can interfere with eating or speaking if large.
Chalazion:
A type of cyst found on the eyelid, caused by blockage of an oil gland. Chalazia appear as firm, painless lumps but can become tender or swollen if infected. They often resolve on their own but may require drainage if persistent.
Cysts are extremely common, affecting people of all ages, especially adults between 20 and 50. They frequently appear on the skin as harmless, fluid-filled lumps, often prompting individuals in London to seek treatment due to discomfort or aesthetic concerns. At Harley Street Medics, we regularly assist patients dealing with cysts, emphasizing that this is a routine and highly manageable condition.
The exact reason why cysts develop beneath the skin isn’t always clear, but several factors contribute to their formation:
Blocked glands or follicles: Cysts often arise when glands or hair follicles become blocked, trapping fluid or keratin beneath the skin. This blockage can be caused by skin injuries, acne, or minor infections, and is commonly seen on the face, neck, or back.
Skin injury or trauma: Minor injuries or trauma to the skin, such as cuts or surgical wounds, can sometimes trigger cyst formation as the skin attempts to heal, trapping cells beneath the surface.
Infections and inflammation: Certain skin infections or chronic inflammatory conditions can lead to the development of cysts, particularly when pus or inflammatory fluid accumulates under the skin.
Hormonal factors: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during puberty or pregnancy, might contribute indirectly by increasing the likelihood of acne or skin inflammation, thereby leading to cyst formation.
Genetics and age: There is a genetic predisposition for certain types of cysts. Pilar cysts, for example, tend to run in families. Additionally, the likelihood of developing cysts generally increases with age.
When it comes to removing Cysts, medical professionals use several safe and effective techniques. In the UK, common clinical removal methods include cryotherapy (freezing), Surgical excision (cutting off), and CO₂ Laser Treatment.
How It Works
Cryotherapy involves the application of liquid nitrogen to the cyst, rapidly freezing the abnormal tissue. This extreme cold causes ice crystals to form within the cyst cells, leading to cellular damage and subsequent cell death. Over time, the body’s immune system naturally eliminates the destroyed tissue, resulting in the cyst shrinking and eventually disappearing. The procedure is typically performed without anesthesia, as the cold itself has a numbing effect. Patients may experience a sensation of cold and mild discomfort during the application, but this is generally well-tolerated.
Benefits
Cryotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require incisions, thereby reducing the risk of bleeding and infection. The treatment is swift, often completed within minutes, allowing patients to resume normal activities promptly. Most patients experience little to no downtime, with the treated area healing over one to two weeks. Additionally, the controlled freezing and subsequent thawing of tissues often result in minimal scarring compared to traditional surgical methods.
Drawbacks
During the procedure, patients may experience a stinging or burning sensation, though this discomfort is usually brief. There’s a possibility of temporary skin discoloration (lightening or darkening) at the treatment site, especially in individuals with darker skin tones. Cryotherapy may be less effective for larger or deeper cysts, potentially necessitating additional treatments or alternative methods. Furthermore, the treated area may blister and swell post-procedure, making proper aftercare essential to prevent infection and promote healing.
How It Works
CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser treatment employs a focused beam of light to precisely vaporize the cyst tissue. The laser energy is absorbed by the water content in the cells, causing rapid heating and destruction of the targeted tissue. This method allows for high precision, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy skin. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The laser’s ability to coagulate blood vessels as it cuts reduces bleeding during the procedure.
Benefits
The CO₂ laser allows for exact targeting of the cyst, preserving surrounding healthy tissue. Its coagulative properties minimize bleeding during the procedure, enhancing visibility and reducing operative time. The precision of the laser and the reduced need for sutures contribute to less noticeable scarring. Additionally, the laser’s sterilizing effect decreases the likelihood of post-operative infections. Patients often experience less post-operative discomfort and faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
Drawbacks
Deeply situated or particularly large cysts may not be ideal candidates for laser treatment. The need for specialized laser equipment and trained personnel may limit availability. Some patients may experience temporary changes in skin pigmentation at the treatment site. Furthermore, laser treatments may be more expensive than other methods due to the advanced technology involved.
How It Works
Surgical excision involves the complete removal of the cyst and its capsule through an incision. Under local anesthesia, the surgeon makes a precise cut over the cyst, carefully dissects it from the surrounding tissues, and removes it entirely. The incision is then closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied to protect the area during the healing process. This method ensures that the entire cyst is removed, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence.
Benefits
Surgical excision ensures the entire cyst and its capsule are extracted, minimizing the chance of recurrence. It allows for histological examination of the excised tissue to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy. Typically completed in one session, it provides a straightforward and definitive solution. This method has a high success rate, especially for cysts that are large, symptomatic, or have recurred after other treatments.
Drawbacks
Depending on the cyst’s size and location, surgical excision may result in a visible scar. However, our surgeons employ advanced techniques to minimize scarring. Healing may take one to two weeks, during which some discomfort and activity restrictions may occur. As with any surgical procedure, there’s a minimal risk of infection, which can be mitigated through proper post-operative care. In rare cases, there may be a risk of nerve damage, especially if the cyst is located near nerve pathways.
The table below provides a comparison of key treatment methods, highlighting how they work, typical pain levels, downtime, and other considerations:
| Method | Effectiveness | Recovery Time | Scarring | Recurrence Risk | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Cryotherapy |
Effective for small to medium cysts; not ideal for deep or large cysts. |
Minimal downtime; healing within 1–2 weeks. |
Low risk of scarring as no incisions are made. |
Moderate; if any tissue remains, cyst may return. |
Superficial cysts in non-sensitive areas. |
|
CO2 Laser Treatment |
Highly precise; best for small to medium cysts in sensitive areas. |
Short recovery; usually returns to normal activities in a few days. |
Minimal scarring due to precision of laser. |
Moderate; incomplete ablation can lead to recurrence. |
Cosmetically sensitive areas needing precise removal. |
|
Surgical Excision |
Most effective for all cyst types; removes entire cyst and capsule. |
1–2 weeks of recovery with possible activity restrictions. |
Scarring possible but minimized with advanced techniques. |
Low; complete removal minimizes recurrence. |
Large, symptomatic, or recurrent cysts. |
At Harley Street Medics, your skin health and confidence are our priority. Here’s what makes us a trusted destination for Cyst removal:
Our clinic is located in the prestigious Harley Street area, known for elite-level medical care.
We follow the highest safety standards required by UK healthcare regulators.
All procedures are conducted by trained professionals, ensuring accuracy, hygiene, and minimal scarring.
Enjoy fast access, discreet service, and custom treatment plans—no GP referral needed.
We provide clear recovery guidance, helping you heal quickly and with confidence.
| Treatments | Price |
|---|---|
| Small cyst | From £495 |
| Medium cyst | From £795 |
| Large cyst | From £995 |
Most minor cyst removal procedures take 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cyst.
Keep the area clean and dry, apply any prescribed ointments, and follow your clinician’s instructions on dressing changes and activity restrictions.
You can usually return to work the next day, unless your job involves heavy physical activity, in which case 1–2 days’ rest may be advised.
A small scar may remain, especially if the cyst was large or infected, but techniques at Harley Street Medics aim to minimise visible scarring.
In most cases, hair may not regrow over the exact removal site, but this depends on the size and depth of the cyst and individual healing.
If the cyst was in a sensitive or intimate area, it’s best to wait at least one week or until the area is fully healed. Always follow your doctor’s guidance.
The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some mild soreness may occur afterward.
If the entire sac is removed, the cyst is unlikely to return. Incomplete removal increases the risk of recurrence.
If the cyst causes pain, infection, or functional issues, it may be covered by some insurance plans. Cosmetic removal is typically self-funded.
The finest dermatological and aesthetic treatments tailored to your specific skin needs are our speciality at Harley Street Medics. Our clinic provides state-of-the-art procedures to help you attain the healthy, radiant skin you deserve, from sophisticated cosmetic solutions to professional skin care.
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