Excision of a sebaceous cyst behind the ear?
Hello Doctor: I have had sebaceous cysts behind both of my ears.
They were previously inflamed, and the pus was drained, but they were not removed.
Occasionally, pus still comes out.
Can I directly undergo surgery to completely remove the cysts when there is no inflammation or swelling, or do I have to wait until they become inflamed again? Thank you for your answer.
y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/10
Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
It is best to remove it in the absence of inflammation.
Reply Date: 2018/06/10
More Info
Yes, you can surgically remove sebaceous cysts behind your ears even when they are not inflamed. Sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermoid cysts, are benign growths that can occur anywhere on the body, including behind the ears. They are typically filled with a substance called sebum, which is produced by sebaceous glands. While these cysts are usually harmless, they can become bothersome, especially if they become inflamed or infected.
The surgical removal of a sebaceous cyst is often recommended if it is causing discomfort, has become infected, or if you simply wish to eliminate it for cosmetic reasons. The procedure is relatively straightforward and can usually be performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The surgeon will make a small incision over the cyst, remove the entire cyst wall along with its contents, and then close the incision with stitches. This approach minimizes the chance of recurrence, as the cyst wall is completely excised.
It is generally advisable to have the cyst removed when it is not inflamed, as this can lead to a smoother surgical process and a quicker recovery. If the cyst is inflamed, the surrounding tissue may be more sensitive, and there is a higher risk of complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding. In some cases, if a cyst is infected, the surgeon may first need to drain the cyst and treat the infection before proceeding with complete removal.
Before proceeding with surgery, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can evaluate the cyst, discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery, and determine the best course of action based on your specific situation. They may also perform imaging studies if necessary to ensure that the cyst is not associated with any underlying issues.
In summary, you do not need to wait for the sebaceous cysts behind your ears to become inflamed before considering surgical removal. It is safe and often recommended to remove them when they are asymptomatic. Just ensure that you consult with a medical professional to discuss your options and receive appropriate care.
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