Cysts

Cysts are a common occurrence in people of all ages and skin types. They are closed sacs of liquid or semi-solid material (often including a substance called keratin) and can vary in size and texture, depending on the type of cyst. A cyst can occur anywhere on the skin, but are most often found on the face, neck, groin or torso.

Skin cysts are benign lumps that can range anywhere from a few millimeters to 5 or 6 centimeters across. One of the recognisable traits of a skin cyst is that it is not ‘attached’, and can therefore be ‘wiggled’ as it is moveable. A skin cyst isn’t usually painful, unless it becomes infected or inflamed which will occur more frequently when the cyst is due to a blocked follicle.

A skin cyst will usually develop when cells move inward and multiply, as opposed to moving outward toward the skin’s surface and shedding away as they normally would do. They can also form when skin is damaged and the cells on the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) become embedded in the lower layers of the skin. In some cases when the underlying cause is not obvious), skin cysts could be genetic like pilar cysts, or Gardner’s syndrome.

If you suspect you may have a cyst, there are some ways you can help to alleviate any tenderness you may be experiencing at home, such as by using a warm compress. However, in the instance that infection is present this will need to be addressed by a doctor so that appropriate medication can be prescribed.

Usually a cyst is not too problematic if left untreated, however, if it is growing in a place that causes irritation or is aesthetically unappealing, then surgical removal of the cyst may be considered. Here at Reshape & Restore, our team is here to assess your cyst and advise whether removal is the correct course of action for you. If so, with our in-house surgical expertise, you can be sure that you’re in the right place.