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Sebaceous cyst on forehead at 1 week after

Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Causes and Treatments

Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Causes and Treatments

Sebaceous cysts can be a source of discomfort and concern. These small, non-cancerous bumps beneath the skin can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, or torso.

Understanding what a sebaceous cyst is, and how it forms, can help alleviate some of the anxiety around it.

In this article, I will break down the complex medical jargon into simple, easy-to-understand language. I will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sebaceous cysts.

My aim is to provide clear, empathetic guidance. This will empower you to make informed decisions about your health care.

Whether you suspect you have a sebaceous cyst, have been diagnosed with one, or are simply interested in learning more, this article is for you.

Let’s demystify sebaceous cysts together.

What Is A Sebaceous Cyst?

A sebaceous cyst is a benign lump situated under the skin. It forms when the sebaceous glands become blocked. These glands are responsible for producing oil to lubricate your skin and hair.

The most common areas where these cysts form are the face, neck, and torso. However, they can appear anywhere on the body. Most people will notice these cysts as they grow slowly over time.

Sebaceous cysts vary in size, ranging from as small as a pea to as large as a few centimetres. They are filled with a thick, oily substance called sebum.

The cysts are generally not harmful and are rarely painful. However, if a cyst becomes infected, it can cause discomfort.

When infected, symptoms such as redness, swelling, and tenderness can occur. The cyst may become warm to the touch, signalling inflammation.

The precise cause of sebaceous cysts isn’t always clear. However, several factors contribute to their formation. These include blocked glands, skin trauma, and sometimes genetic conditions.

Here are some key points about sebaceous cysts:

  • Non-cancerous skin lumps
  • Slow-growing
  • Typically painless

Understanding these basic facts can help ease concerns. It is important to consult your doctor if changes occur. Knowing what a sebaceous cyst is can guide better health decisions.

Common Symptoms of Sebaceous Cysts

Sebaceous cysts are typically easy to identify. The most noticeable symptom is a small, round bump under the skin.

These cysts are usually not painful. However, they can become uncomfortable if infected or inflamed.

Some people may experience mild discomfort from a cyst even when it’s not infected. This can happen if it grows larger or is in a sensitive area.

When a cyst becomes infected, several symptoms can appear. Redness, swelling, and tenderness are common signs of infection.

The cyst may also feel warmer than the surrounding skin. This warmth indicates inflammation.

Other symptoms might include a foul odour if the cyst drains. This occurs because of the cheesy-like substance inside.

Here are common signs of sebaceous cysts:

  • Firm, round lump
  • Possible tenderness
  • Redness or swelling (if infected)

It’s crucial to monitor any changes in these symptoms. If you experience these signs, consult your doctor for proper evaluation.  It is important to note that we will not remove your sebaceous cyst if there are signs of inflammation or infection and this must be treated before having definitive removal.

Causes and Risk Factors

Sebaceous cysts develop for various reasons. The exact cause is not always known, making prevention tricky.

One common cause is a blocked sebaceous gland. These glands produce oil for the skin and can become clogged.

Blockages might result from trauma to the skin. Injuries or damage in certain areas can trigger cyst formation.

Genetic conditions also play a role. Some inherited disorders increase the likelihood of developing cysts.

Hormonal changes are another factor. These changes can influence sebaceous gland activity, leading to cysts.

Age and lifestyle may contribute as well. As you age, your risk of cysts might increase.

Key causes and risks include:

  • Blocked sebaceous glands
  • Skin trauma
  • Genetic conditions
  • Hormonal changes
  • Aging factors

Diagnosing Sebaceous Cysts

Diagnosing a sebaceous cyst usually begins with a physical examination. We will assess the cyst’s size and location visually and you can even send us a photo of your cyst if you would like an opinion before coming to the clinic.

Send us a photo on WhatsApp here.

In some cases, further tests may be needed. Imaging tests like ultrasounds help rule out other conditions and are useful for particularly large cysts or cysts in certain locations such as the outer edge of the eyebrow, which could represent an external angular dermoid cyst.  These are cysts that are  created during development as the bones of the skull fuse and have a small possibility of connection with the brain.

We look for specific signs to confirm it is a cyst. These include smooth texture and mobility under the skin.  The overlying skin is usually normal, although there is often a small hole in the skin with a connection to the cyst.  This is known as a punctum and is a trademark feature of a sebaceous cyst.  If you do have a punctum in the skin, we will remove this at the same time as removing your cyst.

Treatment Options for Sebaceous Cysts

Treatment for sebaceous cysts depends on their size and symptoms. Many cysts do not require any intervention.

However, some individuals may choose treatment for comfort or cosmetic reasons. If a cyst becomes bothersome, several options exist.

Antibiotics may be prescribed if the cyst is infected. This helps clear any bacterial infection accompanying the swelling.

For larger or painful cysts, particularly if they are infected, draining the fluid can provide relief.

Home remedies, like warm compresses, can provide temporary relief. However, these should be approached cautiously and are not a substitute for professional care.

None of the above strategies will remove the cyst because the cyst wall remains even if the contents are drained.

Definitive treatment of a sebaceous cyst requires surgical removal.

Here is a list of treatment options to consider:

  • Antibiotic prescription for surrounding redness
  • Drainage if grows large and painful suggesting infection
  • Surgical removal to permanently remove the cyst

Sebaceous Cyst Removal Procedure

If a sebaceous cyst requires surgical removal, it is often a straightforward procedure that can be done on the same day as your consultation in one of our ‘See & Treat’ Clinics.

It is typically done under local anaesthesia and you will be able to go home shortly after the procedure.

We will make a small incision over the cyst. This provides access to remove the entire sac.

Removing the entire cyst is crucial. This helps prevent the cyst from coming back in the future.  For this reason, the scar is usually about as long as the diameter of the cyst, but as we are all plastic surgeons, we will plan the placement of your scar to make it as unnoticeable as possible.

The procedure generally takes about 45-90 minutes. Recovery is usually quick, with minimal discomfort.

We have the facilities to send your cyst off for histological analysis for complete peace of mind and all of these services are included in the fixed price package that we offer.

REQUEST A PRICE FOR CYST REMOVAL

Following the procedure, we will give you aftercare instructions and make sure you have our contact details and a follow-up appointment booked.

Aftercare and Recovery

Taking care of the area after sebaceous cyst removal is crucial to ensure quick healing and the best result possible.

Keep the wound clean and dry. We will provide specific postoperative instructions.

Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities. This helps prevent strain on the healing area and reduces the risk of swelling.

Watch for signs of infection. Redness, warmth, or discharge may indicate a problem.

You will always have a follow-up appointment and contact details so that you can let us know if you have any concerns.

We will be on hand for you to come back to the clinic or we can arrange for a phone or video call if you have any questions.

All of your aftercare will be with your plastic surgeon and the clinic nurse and we will make sure that you are fully looked after during your recovery period.

Our Cast Iron Guarantee

At The STAIANO Clinic, we offer our cast iron guarantee.

Many clinics will not see you again once they have removed your cyst and you might feel that you have been left out in the cold.

Our clinic has been built on making sure that we look after our patients as you can see from our 5 star reviews.

When you become a patient of The STAIANO Clinic, you are always welcome to come back to see us if you have any questions or concerns.  We do not charge for follow-up appointments.

Not only that, we also want you to know that we will do everything that we can to give you the best result possible and so if your surgeon feels that you need any further surgery within the first 6 months after your procedure, there will be no charge.

This gives you complete peace of mind that the price that you pay includes all of your aftercare and all of your follow up for as long as you need.

Preventing Sebaceous Cysts

Prevention focuses on good skin care practices. Regular cleansing can help reduce the risk.

Avoid trauma to the skin. Protect areas prone to cysts by being gentle and cautious.

Manage conditions like acne. Controlling breakouts can lower the chances of cyst formation. Regular dermatologist visits can help maintain skin health.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice a new lump or bump under your skin, it is wise to consult your doctor. This helps ensure the growth is not something more serious.

Seek medical advice if the cyst becomes painful, red, or swollen. These signs may indicate an infection that requires treatment.

Persistent or bothersome cysts also warrant evaluation. Early intervention can prevent complications and ease concerns.

Myths and Misconceptions

There are several myths surrounding sebaceous cysts. One common misconception is that they are contagious. In reality, sebaceous cysts cannot spread from person to person.

Another myth is that popping a cyst will cure it. This actually increases the risk of infection and complications, making the problem worse.

Finally, some believe sebaceous cysts are always a sign of cancer. In fact, they are usually benign and non-cancerous, although evaluation is still important.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Sebaceous cysts are common and generally harmless. However, they can be bothersome due to their appearance or potential for infection.

Understanding the nature and treatment of sebaceous cysts can alleviate anxiety. It can also empower you to manage them more effectively.

Key takeaways include:

  • Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous.
  • They often don’t need treatment unless symptomatic.
  • Removal is the most effective treatment.
  • Good hygiene helps prevent new cysts.
  • Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

If you are thinking of having your cyst removed, you can send us a photo on WhatsApp and we can send you details about removal.

lipoma scan image

Do I Need A Scan For My Lipoma?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a lipoma, or suspect you might have one, you may be wondering about the need for a lipoma scan.

A lipoma is a benign tumour made up of fat tissue. It’s generally soft, movable, and painless. But when it’s large, painful or growing, a scan may be necessary. It may also be necessary to have a scan if you are considering having your lipoma removed.

This article aims to demystify the process of a lipoma scan. I will explore different types of scans, such as ultrasound and MRI, and explain when each might be used.

I will also discuss what to expect during the scan, how to interpret the results, and the potential treatment options. My goal is to provide clear, empathetic guidance to help you make informed decisions about your health care.

Remember, while this article provides general information, it is always best to consult with your doctor for personalised advice. Let’s dive in and learn more about lipoma scans.

Understanding Lipomas: A Brief Overview

Lipomas are the most common type of soft tissue tumour. These are non-cancerous and consist of fatty tissues. They usually present as soft, rubbery lumps beneath the skin.

Most lipomas are painless and do not require treatment. They can appear anywhere in the body where fat cells exist.

The exact cause of lipomas is not well understood. Genetic factors may play a role in their development.

When a lipoma becomes painful, or grows rapidly, medical evaluation becomes important. While benign, these changes require attention to rule out other conditions.

Understanding lipomas helps in making informed decisions about when further investigation, like a scan, might be warranted.

Lipoma on flank

This is a large lipoma on the back.  A scan was required before removal due to its size.

When Is a Lipoma Scan Necessary?

A lipoma scan becomes vital under specific circumstances. Generally, lipomas do not require any intervention. However, certain changes in their behaviour might warrant a closer look.

If you notice that your lipoma is increasing in size, this might call for further examination. Changes in size can indicate the need for more detailed imaging.

Pain associated with a lipoma can also signal the necessity for a scan. Although typically painless, some lipomas can press on nerves. There is also a variety of benign lipomas called angiolipomas that can be tender.

In addition, when the diagnosis is not clear from a physical examination, a scan can help. This is crucial to differentiate a lipoma from other types of growths.

If you are considering having your lipoma removed, a scan can help to delineate how deep your lipoma is. This is important to decide whether your lipoma can be removed under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic.

Your doctor might recommend a scan based on certain criteria. Here are some key indicators:

  • Rapid growth of the lipoma.
  • Pain or discomfort around the area.
  • Changes in the skin over the lipoma.
  • Difficulty in determining the nature of the growth – lumps around the head and neck can be a variety of things.
  • Location of lipoma – lipomas in the trunk can sometimes lie deep to the muscles.

If you experience any of these symptoms, discussing a scan with your doctor is wise.

Lipoma on neck

A swelling in the neck could be a variety of things and a scan would be necessary before removal.

 

Types of Lipoma Scans Explained

There are several scan types available to assess a lipoma. Each scan offers unique benefits and levels of detail.

The ultrasound is often the first choice. It’s non-invasive and uses sound waves to produce images. This makes it suitable for examining lumps close to the skin’s surface.

An MRI scan provides more detailed images. It’s especially useful for lipomas deep within the body. MRIs use a magnetic field and radio waves to generate images.

Though less common, CT scans are another option. They use X-rays to create a detailed cross-section of the body. CT scans are sometimes used for complex cases.

The decision on which scan to use depends on the lipoma’s specific characteristics. Your doctor will guide you in choosing the appropriate scan.

Each scan type helps in diagnosing and planning the next steps. They confirm whether a lipoma is harmless or needs more attention.

Understanding the purpose of these scans can ease anxiety. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel less daunting.

Discussing the scans with a doctor will clarify which one suits your needs. You’ll have the information to proceed with confidence.

Lipoma Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound is often the first scan choice for examining lipomas. It’s painless and does not require any preparation.

The device uses sound waves to create images of the body’s interior. This helps in identifying lipomas close to the skin.

Ultrasounds are effective for distinguishing lipomas from other growths. They provide quick results and involve no radiation.

During the process, a technician moves a small device over the lipoma. The data is sent to a monitor, producing a real-time image.

This scan is also safe for those who are pregnant. It’s a simple and effective way to examine soft tissue lumps.

Lipoma MRI Scan

MRI scans offer a more detailed view of lipomas than ultrasounds. They are ideal for lipomas located deep within the body.

MRIs use a magnetic field along with radio waves to produce detailed images. They highlight soft tissues and structures around the lipoma.

This scan type helps determine if a lipoma affects surrounding tissues. It provides clarity when the borders of a lipoma aren’t well defined.

No special preparation is needed for an MRI, and it’s pain-free. However, patients with metal implants should inform their doctor beforehand.

The detailed images from an MRI aid significantly in precise diagnosis and treatment planning. It’s a top choice when intricate imaging is necessary.

Other Scanning Techniques

Though not as common, CT scans are sometimes used for lipomas. They provide cross-sectional images via X-rays.

This method is helpful if an MRI isn’t suitable for some reason. It’s an alternative that provides different imaging perspectives.

Rarely, other specialized scans might be considered. Each case is unique, so doctor recommendations matter.

Preparing for Your Lipoma Scan

Getting ready for a lipoma scan is simple and often requires little effort. Most scans, like the ultrasound or MRI, don’t need special preparation.

Your doctor will inform you if there are specific steps to take before the scan. Typically, you can eat and drink as usual.

Wear comfortable clothing on the day of the scan, and try to relax. This can help you feel more at ease during the procedure.

What to Expect During the Scan

When you arrive for your lipoma scan, a healthcare professional will guide you through the process. They’ll ensure you feel comfortable and informed.

Depending on the type of scan, you might lie down on a table or sit in a chair. For an ultrasound, a gel is applied to the skin for better contact.

The scan itself is usually painless and quick. Ultrasound and MRI scans typically take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes.

Throughout the scan, the technician may give instructions. This could include holding your breath briefly for clearer images.

After the scan, you can usually resume your normal activities without any restrictions. Rest assured, the professionals are there to support you every step of the way.

Interpreting Scan Results with Your Doctor

Once your scan is complete, your healthcare provider will review the images. They’ll assess the characteristics of the lipoma and provide you with a report.

The report will explain whether the lipoma appears benign or if further steps are needed.  It will also give the dimensions of the lipoma and an accurate representation of how deep it lies.

Feel free to ask any questions about the results. Understanding the details will help you feel more confident about the next steps.

The results can guide decisions about treatment options or monitoring. This discussion allows for a personalised plan tailored to your needs.

Remember, your doctor is there to support and inform you. Their expertise will ensure you make informed health decisions.  If you have any questions about your scan report, you can always send us a copy and we can help guide you.

Treatment Options After a Lipoma Scan

After evaluating your lipoma scan, your healthcare provider will discuss potential treatment options. Often, if the lipoma is small and harmless, no treatment is necessary.

However, if the lipoma causes discomfort or aesthetic concerns, removal might be advised. Surgical excision is a common method to remove a troublesome lipoma. It involves making an incision to extract the entire growth and something that we specialise in at The STAIANO Clinic.

We offer a ‘See & Treat’ service for lipoma removal where you can send us a photo of your lipoma and a copy of your scan report (if you have had one).  We will give you a price for lipoma removal and offer you a date (usually within 7 days) to come and have a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons and your lipoma removed on the same day.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Lipoma Scans

It’s important to communicate openly with your doctor about your lipoma scan. To aid this dialogue, consider preparing a list of questions to clarify any uncertainties.

You may want to ask about the necessity of a scan and potential outcomes. Understanding the reasons behind your recommended scan can provide peace of mind.

Here are a few questions you might consider:

  • Why is a scan necessary for my lipoma?
  • What type of scan would be most suitable and why?
  • Are there any risks or side effects associated with the scan?
  • How will the results influence my treatment options?

These questions can help guide your conversation. Feel empowered to gather all the information you need to make informed health decisions.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision – Do I Need A Lipoma Scan?

Your doctor will guide you to make a decision about whether you need a scan of your lipoma.

There are some features that will make it more likely that you will need a scan:

  • Size – if your lipoma is bigger than 5cm in diameter
  • Location – if your lipoma is in your neck or your trunk
  • Symptoms – if your lipoma is rapidly growing or painful

Choosing whether or not to proceed with a lipoma scan can be daunting.  Consult your GP to see if a scan is necessary.  If your GP is unable to help you, then we can arrange for a lipoma scan at one of our partner hospitals who will provide a report that will allow us to proceed with treatment.  Please call the clinic on 0121-454 3680 for more details.

Ultimately, your comfort and peace of mind matter most. Making informed choices leads to more effective healthcare decisions. Trust the process and remember, you’re not alone on this journey.

Removing a mole without leaving a scar

I am often asked about removing a mole without leaving a scar.

There is a lot written on the Internet about this and YouTube seems to be full of videos of people demonstrating home remedies that can ‘quickly and easily remove your mole leaving no visible scarring‘.

The reality is that it is not possible to remove a mole without leaving a scar of some sort.

We are all specialists at mole removal at The STAIANO Clinic and often the scars fade so well that they are difficult to see and so people think that they are not there.

Removal of 3 moles on the forehead by shave excision

The question should not be ‘how do I remove my mole without leaving a scar?‘,

it should be ‘how do I remove my mole leaving the best scar possible?

There are many ways to remove a mole but the common theme is that the piece of skin that contains the pigment cells of the mole needs to be destroyed in some way.

  • You can burn it with heat or energy like a laser.
  • You can destroy it with acid.
  • You can scrape it off.
  • Or you can cut it out with a knife.

They will all remove your mole and they will all leave a mark or scar of some kind.

There are pros and cons of each method and so you need to weigh up what would be the best for you.

Perhaps the most important question is to find out whether there is anything suspicious about your mole. The best way to test this is to send it away for histological analysis.

This is only possible to do if your mole is removed by cutting it out with a knife because all the other ways will destroy the tissue and so it cannot be analysed.

removing a mole without leaving a scar

Before and after removing a mole without leaving a scar

This is particularly important for brown moles because even if there is no concern that they are cancerous, there may be reasons to get a histological report anyway.

If you were to develop signs of skin cancer later on in life such as enlarged lymph notes, your doctors would look closely at your skin for a potential source of the cancer.

If you tell them that you had a mole removed some years ago, then they would want to see a histological report to confirm that that was not the cause of your current problems.

If the mole was not sent away for histology, then there is no way to be sure that it wasn’t actually cancerous.

In terms of the scarring created, then it can be variable for all the modalities of treatment.

When destroying the skin with heat, laser energy or acid, it can be difficult to judge the amount of energy needed to completely destroy the mole.

If you do not use enough energy then there may be evidence of a residual mole left behind
…and if you use too much then this can increase the scarring.

It is more predictable when you use a knife, if it is being used in skilled hands.

My advice for patients who want to know the best way to remove their mole without leaving a scar is this:

  1. First of all, there is no way to remove a mole without leaving a scar
  2. Secondly that excising it with a knife is probably the most predictable and effective way, with the added benefit of allowing us to perform histological analysis if required.

If you have a mole that you are concerned about the first thing to do is to get it checked out by a doctor.

We offer virtual consultations if you would like an assessment and opinion by one of our fully trained plastic surgeons and we also offer a ‘see & treat’ service that will allow you to have your mole removed on the same day as your consultation if this is something that you would like to consider.

Please feel free to comment on my blog and if you want to get in touch you can email me at [email protected] or call us on 0121 454 3680

 

You can send us a photo of your mole on WhatsApp if you would like one of the team to have a look at it:

 

Removing a Beauty Spot

If you have a beauty spot and you would like to have it removed then we offer a ‘see & treat’ service where you can have a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons and go straight ahead and have the beauty spot removed there and then on the same day as the consultation.

A beauty spot is usually a benign mole and there is not anything to particularly worry about but they are in prominent positions on the face and so it is not uncommon for people to want to have them removed.

Of course there are icons of fashion such as Cindy Crawford and Marilyn Monroe who are famous for their beauty spots which are distinguishing features and something that they have obviously embraced.

However not everyone feels this way about their beauty spot and whilst some may think that they look attractive, some may feel differently.

If you are unhappy with your beauty spot and want to have it removed then it is usually something that can be done relatively quickly and painlessly in our minor operating suite.

We are all fully qualified plastic surgeons at the Clinic and we are careful to plan removal of your beauty spot to leave the least scarring so that once things have faded it is difficult to see where your beauty spot was.

If you have got a beauty spot that you would like to have removed, we offer consultations with a plastic surgeon and will give you honest advice with never any pressure to proceed.

If you have any questions you can contact us on 0121-454 3680 or email us at [email protected]

I do a live Q&A every Tuesday at 7 pm on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook so feel free to comment or ask a question.

Different Types Of Skin Cancer

Laser excision of a mole versus surgical excision

It is not uncommon for people to enquire about laser excision of a mole here at the Staiano Clinic as I think that sometimes people feel that it is somehow better than surgical excision.
Anything with the term laser in it is deemed to be futuristic and therefore better than the old-fashioned ways, and indeed lasers have been a great advance in the field of plastic surgery and are very useful in many situations.

We do not offer laser excision of moles here at the Staiano Clinic, however we would be happy to talk to you about it.

If you wanted laser excision, it would always be best to talk to a practitioner who does offer laser excision of moles, because they would be best placed to tell you the pros and cons and the reasons why they offer it.
The main point to consider, is that if you want to have your mole removed, then it will need to be destroyed in some way.  The sort of lasers that are used for mole removal are quite destructive and cut the skin in a similar way to a scalpel.

One of the reasons people feel that laser is preferable to surgery is because they do not want the scar.
However, if the mole is going to be destroyed then it will leave a scar or a mark whatever modality is used.
The pattern of scarring might be different and that is true for the different types of mole excision.

One of the main benefits of laser is that multiple moles can be targeted at the same time, but one of the big downsides is that laser destroys the tissues and so the mole cannot be sent for histology, and it is good practice certainly for pigmented lesions, that they are sent away for histological analysis to be sure that there is nothing to worry about.

There are no moles that are removed by laser excision that cannot be removed by surgical excision and we are all plastic surgeons here at the Staiano Clinic and we specialise in the surgical excision of moles.

There are clinics that do offer laser excision of moles, but you have to be absolutely sure that they are benign before going down that route.

Ideally you would find a plastic surgeon who does laser excision of moles and surgical excision to get a balanced view.

The fact is that laser is often performed by non-plastic surgeons who may not have the ability to offer surgical excision, so it is sometimes hard to get a balanced view and opinion, and so my advice would be to look at the results of different practitioners and choose someone you can trust, who seems to give results and have happy patients because you will find, like with most things, there are many ways to crack a nut.

We are very comfortable with performing surgical excisions of moles here at the Staiano Clinic and we offer free consultations with one of our plastic surgeons if you would like to come along and have an assessment and a chat.
You can also download our guide with details of when you should worry about your mole here.
We are one of the few clinics to offer a see and treat service where you can come to the clinic and have your mole assessed and removed on the same day, and while we do ask for a deposit, there is no obligation to proceed and the deposit is fully refundable if you do not proceed with the surgery on the day.

If you have any questions and want to get in touch, then contact us on the website or on Facebook where I do a live Q and A on Facebook every Tuesday at 7 p.m.  Please visit our Facebook page if you would like to put a question directly to Jonathan.
Feel free to leave a comment below, or drop us an e-mail.
If you want to come for a free no obligation consultation with one of our plastic surgeons, please call or email us or fill in the on-line contact form.