Can I Get Acne Injections After Cystic Acne Drainage?

Cystic acne - can I still receive a cortisone injection after drainage?

Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask about my previous visit.
The doctor injected an anti-inflammatory medication and drained some pus.
He mentioned that this was not an acne injection, just an anti-inflammatory treatment.
However, after the procedure, I still feel like there is a lump or a hard spot remaining.
The doctor advised against squeezing it further to avoid creating indentations.
I would like to know if the remaining hardness is due to inflammation, and if I can have another acne injection after the drainage.
Will the hard lump resolve on its own? I had the lesion for about a week before it was drained, and at that time, it was no longer painful.
It seems that the pus was expelled after the inflammation.
Is it common for cystic acne to still feel like a lump after drainage? Will it eventually disappear on its own? Does cystic acne always leave a depression? Thank you, Doctor!

LIN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/04

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Even after a cyst is drained, new secretions may still form.
If the cyst is large and recurrently inflamed, surgical removal may also be considered.

Reply Date: 2016/01/04

More Info

After undergoing drainage for cystic acne, it is common to have lingering sensations of hardness or a lump in the area where the cyst was treated. This can be due to residual inflammation or the healing process itself. Cystic acne, which is characterized by deep, inflamed lesions, can leave behind some firmness even after the pus has been expelled. The body may still be in the process of healing, and inflammation can persist for a while, leading to the sensation of a hard lump.

Regarding your question about receiving acne injections (often referred to as corticosteroid injections) after drainage, it is generally possible to do so, but it is crucial to consult with your dermatologist or healthcare provider first. They will assess the area to determine if it is appropriate to proceed with additional treatment. If there is still significant inflammation or if the area is healing, they may recommend waiting until the inflammation subsides before administering further injections.
Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and flatten cystic lesions, but they should be used judiciously. Overuse can lead to skin thinning or the formation of indentations (atrophy) in the skin, especially if the injections are given too frequently or in high doses. Your doctor’s advice about not repeatedly draining the cyst is also important, as excessive manipulation can lead to scarring or changes in skin texture.

As for the hard lump you feel after drainage, it may take some time for the body to fully resolve the inflammation and for the area to return to normal. In many cases, these hard areas will gradually soften and resolve on their own as the body heals. However, if the lump persists or if you notice any changes such as increased redness, pain, or drainage, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider.

Cystic acne can sometimes leave behind scars or indentations, particularly if the lesions were severe or if they were manipulated excessively. The risk of scarring can be minimized by following proper aftercare and avoiding picking at the skin. If you are concerned about potential scarring, there are treatments available, such as laser therapy or microneedling, which can help improve the appearance of the skin after cystic acne has healed.

In summary, while it is possible to receive acne injections after cystic acne drainage, it is essential to consult with your dermatologist to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your specific situation. The hard lump you feel may be due to residual inflammation, and it is likely to resolve over time. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or symptoms you experience during your healing process.

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