Cysts are sacs of fluid or tissue that can develop anywhere in the body, possibly due to infection or injury. They typically contain liquid or a semi-solid substance. Cysts are not normally dangerous and might, in some cases, go away on their own. In other cases, if a cyst is not bothersome to the person, there may not be a need for removal.

The decision to remove a cyst can depend on the person’s preference, the type and size of the cyst, whether it causes pain, and whether it is in a cosmetically undesirable area. All of these factors are considered when patients meet Dr Omarjee for a consultation at The DOC Clinic. Dr Omarjee will assess your cyst and recommend a treatment or removal approach, suited to your preference and concerns. Book your appointment to discuss your concerns and gain personalised guidance from a trained practitioner.

Causes

Although there are some common causes, a cyst may develop for no apparent reason. Sometimes, they can be triggered by an underlying health condition. Other causes contributing factors include:

Injury to a blood vessel
A defect in the cells
A blocked duct, causing fluid build-up
Factors such as age, pregnancy, and medications
A history of cysts
Other underlying conditions

Examining the possible causes of a cyst can help identify any underlying issues and indicate a path for treatment.

Symptoms

If you have a cyst, you may notice a semi-soft lump or bump in the skin – either small, similar to a pimple, or larger and more protruding. There are many different types of cysts, some more common than others. The type and location of the cyst can determine the symptoms you experience and the course of treatment.

Although a cyst under the skin’s surface is not typically painful but can become bothersome to the person, in which case, removal can be an option. There are different types of skin cysts, including:

Epidermoid cysts

This type of cyst is not harmful and often appears on areas with hair, such as the scalp, upper back, and face. They occur due to an overgrowth of skin cells which accumulate under the skin, creating a bump or nodule. Their size may remain stable and not require treatment. However, sometimes they may gradually grow and become inflamed, in which case treatment and removal may be necessary to avoid rupture and infection.

Sebaceous cysts

This type of cyst is less common and can appear anywhere on the body. Unlike epidermoid cysts which develop in the skin, sebaceous cysts originate in the sebaceous glands and contain sebum (fluid) inside. They are typically found on the upper body and have a smooth, dome-shaped surface. Treatment may or may not be necessary, depending on the size and whether it becomes large or uncomfortable.

If you are unsure which type of cyst you may have, you should consult with a medical practitioner.

Consultation with Dr Ed Omarjee

If you are concerned about a potential cyst, you can book an appointment to see Dr Omarjee and receive a diagnosis. Dr Omarjee may assess the cyst and ask you questions such as:

How long have you had it?
Is it painful?
How quickly did it develop?
Has it changed in size?

Although cysts are generally not painful, if a cyst ruptures, this can cause pain or discomfort in the area. It can also become prone to infection. Your specific circumstances, such as the location and size of your cyst, will influence Dr Omarjee’s recommendations about treatment.

Candidates for treatment

Not all cysts require treatment. However, there are a variety of reasons why a person may have a cyst removed. It could be:

Cosmetic reasons – The cyst may appear in an area that bothers the person aesthetically
Discomfort – A cyst may develop in a bothersome area, creating irritation or discomfort
Pain – Although cysts are not typically painful, some cysts can cause discomfort and pain depending on their location in the body
Complications – In rare cases, a cyst can require treatment due to complications. For example, some cysts can break or rupture, which can cause pain and other health risks.

Dr Omarjee will also take into account any underlying health conditions, your age, and your medical history to determine a suitable treatment for you.

Cysts treatment at The DOC Clinic Melbourne 3

Treatment of cysts

The most common treatment for cysts is removal by surgical excision. This may involve an incision, sutures, and a healing period afterwards. Although cysts are typically benign (meaning, not harmful), any unusual lump may need to be tested for cancer. This may involve conducting a biopsy by testing a small sample of tissue. However, the exact treatment will be determined after Dr Omarjee has assessed the type and size of the cyst, the patient’s symptoms, and whether there is suspicion of cancer.

Certain types of cysts may also require specific treatment approaches. For example, a patient with cystic acne may require medications to manage the condition. Skin cysts, such as sebaceous or epidermoid, typically can be left alone. However, it may become an issu, and the patient may desire removal. In these cases, Dr Omarjee may recommend surgical removal.

To know whether you are a candidate for surgical removal of a cyst, a consultation at The DOC Clinic is the first step. Our team can advise you based on your specific symptoms and circumstances.

Your appointment at The DOC Clinic

If you have concerns about a lump in the skin or body that may be a cyst, it is a good idea to consult with a professional to determine if you require treatment. Dr Omarjee is an experienced practitioner who aims to provide attentive, individualised care. He maintains a focus on the most up-to-date methodologies, ensuring that patients receive trustworthy guidance for the treatment of their concerns.

An appointment with Dr Omarjee allows you to discuss your symptoms, seek a diagnosis, and receive advice on how best to treat your cyst or underlying condition. You may contact us at The DOC Clinic to book your appointment.

Schedule a Consultation

To request a consultation or further information, complete the attached form and we will respond to you as soon as possible. You are welcome to upload images to assist with explaining your concern(s).

Appointments can be booked via our online booking portal.

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