Cysts
Safe, Precise, and Effective Removal
From diagnosis to treatment, we manage cysts with expert surgical and medical care
tailored to your skin.
What are cysts?
Cysts are sacs filled with fluid, pus, oil, debris, or other materials. They can develop under the surface of your skin and bulge outward. Cysts might be painful or unsightly, though they are often harmless. Treatment with the Thomas Dermatology team can eliminate cysts and reduce your risk of infection.
What do cysts look like?
The appearance of cysts varies based on the type of cyst you have. They might be small, medium, or large circular bumps that are skin-colored, yellow, or white. Cysts sometimes appear in clusters. You may develop them on your face, neck, back, legs, buttocks, or other areas underneath the skin. Some cysts, especially those that get infected, turn red or purple and feel painful.
What are the risk factors for cysts?
While anyone can develop cysts, some factors boost your risk of having them. Examples include:
- Damaged hair follicles
- Infections
- Fluid buildup
- Duct blockages
- Tumors
- Genetic conditions
- Popped blood vessels
- Inflammatory conditions
Sometimes cysts are a sign of cancer, so it’s best to have a specialist evaluate them as soon as you notice them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cysts and how do they appear?
Cysts are under‑skin sacs filled with keratin, fluid, or debris, commonly forming from blocked follicles, inflammation, or trauma. They may feel firm and are often painless unless irritated or infected. Because other lumps can mimic cysts, accurate evaluation is important.
How are cysts diagnosed?
The dermatologist will assess your history and examine the lesion. If needed, imaging (ultrasound) or biopsy helps characterize it and rule out other growths. Correct diagnosis is key to safe management.
What treatments are available?
If small and asymptomatic, cysts may be observed. Warm compresses or drainage may relieve discomfort. For cysts that recur, grow, or cause symptoms, surgical excision—ideally complete removal including the cyst wall—is often recommended. Even so, recurrence can occur depending on cyst type and patient healing.