Sebaceous cysts are common skin conditions that often go unnoticed—until they become painful, inflamed, or infected. An infected cyst can be, both physically and emotionally distressing
What Is a Sebaceous Cyst?
A sebaceous cyst is a closed sac under the skin filled with a greasy or cheese-like material called sebum. It typically forms around a blocked hair follicles. These cysts are usually harmless and slow growing, appearing most commonly on the face, neck, scalp, and torso.
However, when bacteria enter the cyst through a passage because of rupture or through punctum, it can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, redness, and pus formation. This is when an urgent medical attention becomes necessary.
Signs of an Infected Sebaceous Cyst
At MACS Clinic, we advise patients to look out for these signs that indicate a cyst may be infected:
- Redness and warmth around the cyst
- Increased swelling and tenderness
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage
- Fever or general unwellness (in severe cases)
- Rapid growth in size
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Infected cysts do not typically resolve on their own. Delaying treatment can result in:
- Abscess formation
- Spreading infection
- Recurring inflammation
- Scarring or skin damage
- Sepsis and systemic spread of infection particularly in diabetic and immunocompromised patients
Treating Infected Sebaceous Cysts at MACS Clinic
At MACS Clinic, we endeavour to follow a thorough, evidence-based approach to treat infected sebaceous cysts as follow,
- Initial Assessment & Diagnosis
Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria, our senior consultant plastic surgeon will examine the cyst and assess its severity. In some cases, imaging may be recommended to determine the depth and extent of infection.
- Infection Management
If the cyst is infected, our priority is to control the infection first:
- Antibiotics may be prescribed to address the underlying infection.
- Incision and drainage (I&D) might be necessary for painful abscesses. This involves making a small cut in the skin to allow the pus to drain out—relieving pressure and pain almost instantly.
- Definitive Treatment – Cyst Removal
- Laboratory investigation including blood test and microbiology
Once the infection has subsided and inflammation is under control, Mr. Vadodaria recommends surgical removal of the cyst capsule. This is crucial to prevent recurrence. Mr. Vadodaria performs this procedure under local anaesthetics with a minimal scar excision technique. Absorbable sutures are used to close the wound after the removal of the cyst capsule. This procedure takes around 30-40minutes.
Cost of the excision of sebaceous cyst: From £500
- Aftercare & Follow-Up
Mr. Vadodaria will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled 1 week and 6 weeks later to monitor recovery and ensure no recurrence.
Why Choose MACS Clinic?
✔ Expertise: Mr. Shailesh Vadodaria, senior consultant plastic surgeon has experience of nearly 20 years in minor surgery.
✔ Patient-Centric Care: We endeavour to treat every patient with empathy, discretion, and professionalism.
✔ Sterile Environment: Clean, state-of-the-art facilities ensure safety and comfort.
✔Cosmetic Consideration: We minimize scarring
✔ Quick Appointments & Efficient Recovery: Minimal downtime.
How to Book Your Appointment:
- Phone: 020 7078 4378
- WhatsApp: 07792 648 726
- Email: enquiries@macsclinic.co.uk
- Website: www.macsclinic.co.uk
- BOOK a FREE Video Consultation: https://calendly.com/macsclinic/free-video-consultation?month=2025-01
