Sebaceous cysts are one of the most common types of skin lumps seen in adults. They are benign, slow-growing sacs that form beneath the skin when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. Although usually harmless, these cysts can enlarge, become infected, or cause cosmetic concerns if left untreated.
At Cyst Removal Clinic, our doctors perform safe and precise sebaceous cyst removal using minor surgical techniques under local anaesthetic. With short waiting lists and same-day appointments at our City and Harley Street clinics, treatment is straightforward, comfortable, and designed for a clean cosmetic result.
What Is a Sebaceous Cyst?
A sebaceous cyst is a closed sac filled with keratin, a natural protein found in skin cells and hair. It develops when the sebaceous gland or hair follicle becomes blocked, trapping oil and skin debris underneath the surface. These cysts most often appear on the face, scalp, neck, back, or upper chest, where oil glands are most active.
Despite the name, most sebaceous cysts actually arise from epidermal cells rather than true sebaceous glands. They are sometimes called epidermoid cysts or keratin cysts, though “sebaceous cyst” remains the term patients commonly use.
Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous and usually painless, but they can grow larger over time. In some cases, the cyst may rupture or become infected, leading to redness, swelling, or tenderness.
Symptoms and How to Identify One
Typical signs of a sebaceous cyst include:
- A smooth, round lump beneath the skin
- Soft or firm texture, often mobile when pressed
- A central pore or punctum, where the gland opening once was
- Slow growth over weeks or months
- No itching or discomfort unless infected
When inflamed, a sebaceous cyst may become red, warm, and painful, sometimes releasing a foul-smelling discharge. An infected cyst can mimic an abscess and occasionally requires antibiotics or drainage before full removal.
Sebaceous cysts are often mistaken for lipomas (fatty lumps) or abscesses, but lipomas are deeper and softer, while abscesses develop rapidly and are typically painful. A trained doctor can easily distinguish between them during a consultation.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, the doctor will inspect and palpate the lump to confirm its characteristics. In some cases, an ultrasound scan may be used to rule out deeper lesions or confirm whether the cyst is fluid-filled or solid.
Your doctor will assess:
- The size, depth, and location of the cyst
- Whether it is infected or inflamed
- Any previous cysts or scarring in the area
- The most appropriate removal technique
Sebaceous cysts do not require biopsy unless there are unusual features (such as rapid regrowth or irregular edges), but the excised tissue can be sent for histology if clinically indicated.
Sebaceous Cyst Removal Procedure
Cyst removal is a minor surgical procedure carried out under local anaesthetic. The aim is to remove the entire cyst sac, not just drain its contents, this ensures it does not return.
Step-by-step process:
- The area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
- A small incision is made over the cyst.
- The doctor carefully separates and removes the cyst sac intact.
- Fine stitches are used to close the incision for a tidy cosmetic finish.
- A sterile dressing is applied.
The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes, and patients can return home straight afterwards. Recovery is quick; stitches are removed after 7–10 days, depending on the location.
At Cyst Removal Clinic, every excision is performed by a GMC-registered doctor experienced in skin surgery. Our methods minimise scarring and recurrence while ensuring complete cyst removal.
Cost of Sebaceous Cyst Removal in London
The cost of sebaceous cyst removal in London varies according to the location, size, and complexity of the cyst.
| Procedure | From Price | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Sebaceous cyst removal | £295 | Consultation, local anaesthetic, complete excision, dressing, aftercare |
| Facial cyst removal | £395 | Cosmetic closure and follow-up |
| Multiple cysts (same visit) | Discounted | Same-day excision of additional cysts |
Your consultation, procedure, and aftercare are all included, there are no hidden fees for stitch removal or follow-up appointments.
Why Removal Is Recommended
Although sebaceous cysts are benign, removal is often advised for several reasons:
- Prevention of infection – infected cysts can cause abscesses and scarring
- Cosmetic reasons – visible cysts on the face or scalp can be bothersome
- Comfort – larger cysts may rub or catch on clothing
- Recurrence – cysts rarely disappear on their own and may regrow after rupture
Attempting to squeeze or drain a cyst at home can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of infection. Professional removal under sterile conditions is the safest and most permanent solution.
Aftercare and Healing
Following removal, you’ll be given clear aftercare instructions. A small dressing protects the wound for 24–48 hours. You can shower normally after this period, keeping the area clean and dry.
- Avoid heavy exercise or stretching around the incision for a few days.
- Stitches are removed within 7–10 days, or sooner for dissolvable sutures.
- Mild redness or tenderness is normal and settles quickly.
To reduce scarring, avoid sun exposure on the area until healed. If any swelling, discharge, or pain develops, contact the clinic, our team offers direct follow-up with your doctor if needed.
Most patients heal fully within two weeks with minimal marks, and recurrence is rare when the cyst sac is completely excised.
Why Choose Cyst Removal Clinic
Patients choose our London clinics because we combine medical precision with practical convenience:
- All procedures performed by GMC-registered doctors
- Same-day “see and treat” appointments available
- Two central London locations – City of London and Harley Street
- Evening and weekend clinics for flexibility
- Short waiting lists and transparent pricing
- Low recurrence rates thanks to complete excision methods
With thousands of cyst removals performed each year, our team is trusted by patients across London for safe, discreet, and effective treatment.