Abscess & Cyst Removal in Chicago (Fullerton, Montrose) & La Grange, IL

Abscesses & Cysts: Causes & Treatment

Cysts are caused by clogged oil glands or an infection around a foreign object in the body, such as a piercing. Abscesses result from inflammation caused when bacteria enter the skin through a puncture or when oil and sweat glands get clogged.

The following are two ways of treating cysts and abscesses:

• Fine needle aspiration - During this procedure, the area of the cyst or abscess is numbed using local anesthesia, and a needle is inserted into the cyst or abscess. The fluid is then drained through the needle.
• Incision and drainage - This procedure is similar to a fine needle incision, the only difference being that the incision can also be made with a scalpel. The pus is drained out, the area is cleaned with a saline solution, and the wound is dressed with a bandage. A drain might be inserted to prevent further accumulation of pus till the cyst or the abscess is completely healed.

Antibiotics are also often prescribed to ensure there is no infection. The drained fluid may be tested for malignancy. The patient may need to return for several more sessions for the complete removal of the cyst or abscess.