Epidermoid cysts (also called epidermal inclusion cysts or sebaceous cysts) are benign, slow-growing bumps under the skin. They start when surface skin cells move deeper into the skin and form a sac, or capsule. This capsule secretes a thick, white substance called keratin which is made up of primarily dead skin cells. Epidermal cysts are harmless and not cancerous, but can sometimes become inflamed or infected, requiring medical treatment. They can occur almost anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the head, neck and trunk.
The only way to permanently get rid of an epidermoid cyst is to cut out the sac, or capsule. We do not recommend squeezing the cyst, as this does not get rid of the capsule and increases the risk of infection (needing antibiotics), inflammation, scarring and recurrence.
Removal of epidermoid cysts is a safe, minimally invasive procedure designed to remove bothersome or recurring cysts with minimal discomfort. Our doctors provides expert, gentle care to ensure a smooth procedure and beautiful, aesthetically pleasing results.
If the cyst is in a visible or cosmetically bothersome area.
If the cyst interferes negatively with daily activities (ie. friction from clothing, irritation, pressure, etc).
Because epidermoid cysts are not cancerous or dangerous to your health, their removal is not an OHIP-covered service.
Following your procedure, you may experience slight redness or tenderness at the treatment site, which typically resolves within a few days. The stitches will dissolve on their own or will need to be taken out after a week or two, depending on the type of stitch used. Keeping the area clean and following your aftercare instructions will reduce the chance of complications and help promote smooth healing. Most patients can return to their usual activities the same day.
When performed by a trained, board-certified physician, cyst removal typically heals with a minimal scar that appears as a thin, faint line with excellent cosmetic outcome.
You don’t have to live with discomfort or visible lumps beneath your skin. Professional cyst removal is quick, safe, and can instantly improve both comfort and confidence. Our team ensures a gentle experience and lasting results, so you can feel good in your skin again.
During skin cyst removal, the area is first cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. The doctor then makes a small incision to remove the cyst and its sac completely, which prevents it from returning. The area is gently closed with stitches and then bandaged. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. You may feel mild pressure, but overall the experience is very comfortable and well tolerated.
When the entire cyst and its sac are removed, it’s unlikely to return. However, if only part of the cyst wall remains, there’s a small chance it could reappear, which is why professional removal is recommended.
Healing time is usually quick. Mild redness or tenderness may occur for a few days, but most patients resume normal activities immediately. If there are stitches, these will either dissolve on their own or need to be removed after a week or two (depending on the type). Keeping the area clean and following aftercare instructions ensures smooth healing and minimal scarring.
