Skin Cysts Diagnosis & Treatment

Cysts are common skin concerns, and in some cases, people may not even know they have one until it becomes uncomfortable or noticeable.

At Springhouse Dermatology, Dr. Margo Weishar and Dr. Ashley Clark are board-certified dermatologists with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of cysts, including sebaceous and epidermoid types. Whether you’re experiencing inflammation, infection, or cosmetic concerns, our team offers expert, compassionate care for patients throughout Philadelphia, Bucks County, and Montgomery County.

What Are Cysts?

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form anywhere on the body. They are usually benign (non-cancerous) and painless, but can occasionally become inflamed, infected, or rupture, requiring medical attention.

At Springhouse Dermatology, Drs. Weishar and Clark evaluate the size, depth, and location of the cyst to determine the most effective treatment. From in-office drainage to surgical excision, each approach is tailored for optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Types of Cysts

There are many different types, and they can vary in size from very small to quite large. Some common types include:

Sebaceous Cyst

Sebaceous cysts form in the sebaceous glands, which are located near the hair follicles. They contain a fatty material called sebum and can often be squeezed to release the sebum.

Epidermoid Cyst

An epidermoid cyst is the most common type of abscess and forms underneath the outer layer of the skin. These non-cancerous cysts often contain blackhead or whitehead material and can be treated by draining or surgically removing them.

Pilar Cyst

Pilar cysts form in the hair follicles and contain keratin, a protein found in hair. They can be treated by draining them or surgically removing them. If left untreated, they can grow quite large and become difficult to hide with hairstyle techniques.

Dermoid Cyst

Dermoid cysts are quite rare, but potentially dangerous as they can contain tissue from other parts of the body (like teeth or bone). Dermoid abscesses should always be surgically removed.

Bartholin’s Gland

This type of abscess forms near Bartholin’s gland, which is a small organ located on each side of the vaginal opening. Bartholin’s gland cysts can cause pain and swelling in the area around the vagina.

Cyst Treatment & Removal

Cysts commonly appear on the face, neck, abdomen, and chest areas. This can create some distress and discomfort, especially when it oozes a thick, yellow, smelly discharge. A ruptured cyst requires immediate medical attention to prevent any further infection.

Some abscesses do not require treatment as they will eventually go away on their own. However, if it’s causing pain or other problems then it needs to be treated by an experienced, and qualified medical professional. Treatment options include:

Drainage: This is a surgical procedure where a doctor opens up the abscess and drains out the contents.
Surgical cyst removal: To completely remove a cyst, it may be necessary to remove the entire abscess with sac surgically.
Steroid injections and prescription medications: If infected or inflamed, you may need to take antibiotics or other medications prescribed by your doctor.

Choose Dr. Margo Weishar for Skin Cyst Removal

With decades of combined expertise, Dr. Margo Weishar and Dr. Ashley Clark deliver advanced medical dermatology backed by research, innovation, and attention to detail.

Dr. Weishar is a nationally recognized speaker and aesthetic trainer, while Dr. Clark brings a strong clinical research background, with over 50 publications and advanced training in autoimmune skin conditions. Together, they provide comprehensive care for cysts, from diagnosis to removal and follow-up care, ensuring you receive the best outcome possible. Contact us today to book your consultation.