Yes, in many cases, a dermatologist can remove your cyst during the first visit, but it depends on several important factors. The condition of the cyst, its size, location, and whether it’s infected all play a role in determining immediate treatment.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman and her team assess each case carefully to ensure the best treatment plan, which may include medical management, monitoring, or referral to an in-person specialist when procedures such as cyst removal are necessary.
To help you understand if same-day removal is likely, consider the following criteria:
- The cyst is not actively infected or inflamed
- It is a common type of cyst (e.g., sebaceous or epidermoid)
- It is small and located near the skin’s surface
- You are not taking blood thinners or immunosuppressants
- You don’t require further diagnostic imaging or lab testing
If you meet most of these conditions, your dermatologist may proceed with treatment during your initial visit.
Key Takeaways
- Dermatologists can often remove a cyst during the first visit, but eligibility depends on factors like infection, size, and cyst type.
- Common cysts such as sebaceous, pilar, or epidermoid cysts can usually be treated in-office under local anesthesia with a small incision.
- Same-day removal is more likely if the cyst is not inflamed, deeply embedded, or requiring lab analysis before treatment.
- Most procedures take under 30 minutes, with recovery time varying by the size and location of the cyst.
- DermOnDemand offers fast, expert review from board-certified dermatologists like Dr. Hannah Kopelman, with treatment plans available in 24 hours.
Can a Dermatologist Remove My Cyst?
Do All Dermatologists Remove Cysts?
Most dermatologists are trained to remove cysts, but not all offer same-day procedures. It depends on their specialization and whether in-office surgical tools are available.
Can a Dermatologist Remove an Infected or Facial Cyst?
Yes, but timing matters. An infected cyst may need antibiotics before it’s safe to remove. Cysts on the face or neck can usually be treated with extra care to avoid visible scarring.
Can a Dermatologist or Surgeon Remove Cysts Under the Skin?
Both can, but it depends on the depth and size of the cyst. If the cyst lies deep or near sensitive tissue, a general surgeon may be involved. However, many cysts, including epidermoid cysts, sebaceous cysts, and pilar cysts, can be removed by a dermatologist.
Should I See a Doctor or Dermatologist?
If the cyst is new, painful, or growing, start with a dermatologist. A primary care doctor might refer you, but specialists in skin conditions are best equipped for diagnosis and surgical procedures for cysts.
What Happens During a Cyst Removal Appointment?
Diagnosis and Same-Day Treatment
Your dermatologist will first examine the cyst and determine the type of cyst you have. Common types include sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts, dermoid cysts, and hair follicle cysts. If there’s no infection or complication, same-day treatment may be offered.
How a Dermatologist Removes a Cyst
Cyst removal by a dermatologist usually involves draining or excising the cyst sac. If the entire sac isn’t removed, the cyst may return. This is why surgical cyst removal is often preferred over simple drainage. A doctor removing a cyst will focus on complete removal and minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.
Local Anesthesia and Small Incision
The procedure is done under local anesthesia. The dermatologist will numb the area before removal, make a small incision for cyst removal, and gently extract the cyst. Depending on the location and size of the cyst, dissolvable sutures may be used to close the wound.
How Long It Takes and Full Healing Timeline
Most procedures take 20 to 30 minutes. Healing time depends on the size of the cyst and its location. Small cysts typically heal within a week, while larger ones may need two to three weeks. To minimize scarring after cyst removal, follow your post-procedure instructions carefully.
When Is Surgical Removal Required?
If the cyst is large, recurrent, or deeply embedded, surgical removal is often the safest option. Cysts typically form under the skin and may grow near joints, glands, or muscle tissue. In those cases, complete excision is the best approach.
What Happens If You Don’t Remove a Cyst?
Some cysts may stay the same for years. But if they grow, rupture, or become infected, they can cause pain and inflammation. Leaving a cyst untreated can also increase the risk of it affecting surrounding tissue. It depends on the size of the cyst and whether it becomes symptomatic.
Cost, Insurance, and Access
Does Insurance Cover Cyst Removal?
Many insurance plans cover cyst removal if it’s considered medically necessary. If the procedure is done for cosmetic reasons, it may not be reimbursed. DermOnDemand can help determine eligibility during your consultation.
How Much Does Cyst Removal Cost (With or Without Insurance)?
Out-of-pocket costs vary based on the procedure type and provider. On average, surgical procedures for cysts range from $150 to $500. This may increase if lab tests or imaging are needed.
