Do sebaceous cysts require surgery?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Sebaceous cysts are a type of benign proliferation that form under the skin due to hypersecretion of the sebaceous glands. They vary in size and if a sebaceous cyst is small and does not grow over time, it is generally acceptable to postpone surgery. However, if the sebaceous cyst continues to grow and starts to cause pain, it is necessary to have it surgically removed completely to prevent rupture and infection. It is advisable to seek surgical removal at a dermatology department in a reputable hospital. During treatment, it is important to regulate your diet and lifestyle habits. Try to avoid spicy and stimulating foods, avoid staying up late, and reduce stress and anxiety. It is also better not to keep small animals at home, engage in regular exercise, and bathe more frequently.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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The likelihood of sebaceous cysts turning cancerous

Sebaceous cysts are localized hypersecretion of sebaceous glands that form benign proliferations on the skin surface after mixing with bacterial infections. They generally form a sac under the skin containing tofu-dreg-like substances. Sebaceous cysts do not become malignant, and clinically, these diseases almost have no possibility of malignancy. Once discovered, it is essential to first get a diagnosis and then treatment at the dermatology department of a standard hospital. The most common treatment method is surgery to directly remove the tofu-dreg-like substances and the sac. If left untreated, the cyst may grow larger or rupture, leading to re-infection, which can be problematic.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Do sebaceous cysts hurt?

Most sebaceous cysts generally do not show obvious symptoms and do not cause pain. However, if the sebaceous glands grow and enlarge gradually, they will become painful, especially during squeezing or friction, which intensifies the pain. Once this condition is detected, it is best to go to a regular hospital's dermatology department where a doctor can perform minor surgery to completely remove the tofu-dregs-like substances and the cyst, thereby achieving a thorough cure. Regularly, one should standardize their diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and irritating food, avoid staying up late, avoid anxiety, and refrain from bathing or swimming in public baths. It is also advisable not to keep small animals at home and to frequently sunbathe and sanitize bed linens and quilt covers.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How is a sebaceous cyst formed?

Sebaceous cysts primarily arise from the vigorous secretion of one's own sebaceous glands, forming benign proliferation in the subcutaneous area, which contains a cyst filled with tofu-dregs-like substances. Initially, they appear as abscesses with clear pus inside, and over time, the pus gradually dries out to form the cyst. This condition is related to inflammation within the body. Once identified, it is advised to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a regular hospital. The most common treatment plan is a minor surgery to completely remove the cyst and the tofu-dregs-like substances, which can effectively eradicate the issue. This disease has a certain recurrence rate, so it is crucial to regulate one's diet and lifestyle habits, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and try not to stay up late.

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Dermatology
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Is it okay not to treat a sebaceous cyst?

Sebaceous cysts are a result of hyperactive sebum secretion from the sebaceous glands, which accumulates in the local skin causing benign proliferation. Inside there is a sac containing material that resembles tofu dregs. If the cyst is small and does not show signs of growth, it can be left untreated, but it requires long-term observation. If the sebaceous cyst grows gradually larger or becomes painful, it is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a reputable hospital for a minor surgery to completely remove the sac and the tofu-dregs-like material inside. After recovery, it is important to follow a disciplined diet and lifestyle to prevent recurrence. One should avoid spicy and irritating foods, try not to stay up late, exercise regularly, and bathe frequently.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Are sebaceous cysts prone to recurrence?

Sebaceous cysts are benign proliferations that occur due to an over-secretion of local sebaceous glands mixed with bacterial infection. Generally, they can appear on any part of the skin. Although benign, if left untreated, they tend to grow larger. Typically, surgical removal is curative if the cyst sac is completely excised, with recurrence usually due to incomplete removal of the cyst sac or new flare-ups at other sites due to inflammation and infection. Once the condition is adequately treated, it is crucial to adopt a standardized diet and lifestyle habits. Try to avoid greasy and spicy foods, enhance physical exercise, sweat more, and avoid bathing or swimming in public pools, as well as keeping pets.