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MBBS
MMed
MRCS (IRE)
FRCSED
FAMS
Sebaceous cysts are non-cancerous, slow-growing bumps beneath the skin, commonly resulting from the blockage of sebaceous glands. These glands secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair. Cysts can develop due to trauma, swollen hair follicles, or high testosterone, causing the gland to become swollen and clogged.
Symptoms typically include a visible lump, skin redness, and occasional pain or tenderness, especially if the cyst is infected. While usually not harmful, these cysts can become uncomfortable or aesthetically bothersome.
Sebaceous cyst removal can be performed using various techniques tailored to the cyst’s characteristics and the patient’s needs. Here’s a detailed look at the primary methods:
Surgical excision is a medical approach used for removing sebaceous cysts. This procedure involves the complete removal of the cyst along with its encapsulating sac to ensure it does not return. It is ideal for larger or recurrent cysts and is performed under local anaesthesia.
1. Preparation and Anaesthesia Administration
2. Making the Incision
3. Dissecting the Cyst
4. Cyst Removal
5. Checking for Complete Removal
6. Closure of the Incision
7. Dressing and Bandaging
8. Postoperative Instructions
Minimal excision reduces scarring compared to full excision while attempting to remove the cyst sac to prevent recurrence. This technique involves a smaller incision, which means less healing time and reduced scarring but has a slightly higher risk of the cyst returning compared to complete excision.
1. Preparation and Anaesthesia Administration
2. Making a Small Incision
3. Dissecting and Removing the Cyst
4. Cyst Sac Removal
5. Closure of the Incision
6. Dressing the Site
7. Postoperative Care
Before undergoing sebaceous cyst removal, several important steps and considerations must be addressed to ensure the procedure is safe and effective. Here are the key pre-procedure considerations:
A thorough medical evaluation determines the most appropriate method for cyst removal. This includes assessing the cyst’s size, location, and any signs of infection. Any allergies, medical conditions, or medications that might affect the procedure should be mentioned.
If the cyst is infected, antibiotics may be necessary before removal. An infected cyst often requires drainage rather than immediate excision to manage the infection first.
Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.
Recovery following sebaceous cyst removal is usually straightforward, with patients typically resuming normal activities shortly after the procedure. Here are key aspects of aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery:
Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Change dressings as recommended to prevent infection.
Avoid strenuous activities and excessive movement that may stress the surgical site for the first few days after the procedure to prevent reopening the wound.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any discomfort following the procedure. If pain persists or worsens, seek immediate medical attention.
Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or unusual pain at the incision site. Fever may also indicate an infection.
Attend follow-up appointments to ensure the site is healing properly and to address any concerns. These visits are also important for removing stitches if they are not self-dissolving.
Treatment for sebaceous cysts should be considered if the cyst becomes painful, inflamed, or infected, which can manifest as redness, swelling, and drainage of pus. Additionally, seek medical advice if the cyst rapidly grows or interferes with daily activities due to its size or location.
Aesthetic concerns or discomfort caused by the cyst’s presence are valid reasons for seeking treatment. Early evaluation can prevent complications and determine the most appropriate intervention to manage the cyst effectively.
MBBS (SG)
MMed (Surg)
MRCS (Ire)
FRCSEd (Gen)
FAMS (Surg)
Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.
He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.
Dr Thng set up and pioneered the Minimally invasive surgery program for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.
Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).
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820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
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(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
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Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
38 Irrawaddy Road, #08-43, Singapore 329563
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
319 Joo Chiat Place, #05-01, Singapore 427989
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday, Sunday & PH: Closed
820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623
Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
(Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
Sunday & PH: Closed
Sebaceous cysts are typically benign and do not become cancerous. However, if a cyst changes in appearance, it is advisable to have it evaluated by a medical specialist to rule out other potentially serious conditions.
A sebaceous cyst typically feels like a small, round bump under the skin and may move slightly when touched. To confirm, an examination may be performed and, if necessary, a biopsy.
Home remedies are not recommended for sebaceous cysts, as improper handling can lead to infection or other complications.