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CYST OR LIPOMA EXCISION

Cyst and lipoma excision provides precise surgical removal of benign skin growths that cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. Our board-certified dermatologists perform complete excision procedures to remove cysts and lipomas with minimal scarring and excellent healing outcomes. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology in Danville, we specialize in expert removal of these non-cancerous growths using advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

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What Are Cysts and Lipomas?

Cysts and lipomas are among the most common benign skin growths that can develop anywhere on the body. Cysts are sacs lined with epithelial tissue, often containing keratin and other skin debris, while lipomas are soft, fatty tumors composed of adipose tissue that grow slowly beneath the skin. If you have a persistent lump that causes discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or shows signs of inflammation, surgical excision may be the most effective treatment option.

Cysts typically present as firm, round lumps that may have a central punctum (small opening), while lipomas feel soft and doughy, moving easily under the skin when touched. Both types of growths are generally harmless but can become problematic if they grow large, become infected, or interfere with daily activities.

Common types and characteristics include:

  • Epidermal inclusion cysts: Filled with keratin, often have a central punctum
  • Pilar cysts: Commonly found on the scalp, thick-walled
  • Lipomas: Soft, fatty lumps that move freely under the skin
  • Angiolipomas: Lipomas containing blood vessels, may be tender

Complete surgical excision ensures permanent removal and allows for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any malignancy.

How Does Surgical Excision Work?

Surgical excision involves making a precise incision to completely remove the cyst or lipoma along with its capsule or surrounding tissue. For cysts, removing the entire capsule is crucial to prevent recurrence, while lipomas are carefully dissected from surrounding tissues to ensure complete removal. We use meticulous surgical techniques and proper wound closure to minimize scarring while ensuring complete removal of the growth. Our Danville patients appreciate our attention to detail and comprehensive aftercare that promotes optimal healing and excellent cosmetic outcomes.

What Types of Growths Can We Remove?

We expertly remove various types of benign skin growths:

Cyst Types:

  • Epidermal inclusion cysts
  • Pilar cysts on the scalp

Lipoma Types:

  • Simple lipomas (most common)
  • Angiolipomas (with blood vessels)
  • Multiple lipomas (lipomatosis)

Common Locations:

  • Face, neck, and scalp
  • Back, chest, and shoulders
  • Arms and legs
  • Areas subject to friction or irritation

Treatment Approaches:

  • Simple excision for smaller growths
  • Minimal excision extraction for lipomas

Our surgical team will evaluate your specific growth and recommend the most appropriate removal technique based on size, location, and type.

Background texture

Who Is a Good Candidate for Excision?

Ideal candidates for cyst or lipoma excision include individuals who:

  • Have growths causing pain or discomfort
  • Experience cosmetic concerns or embarrassment
  • Have cysts prone to infection or inflammation
  • Notice rapid growth or changes in appearance
  • Want permanent removal rather than temporary treatments
  • Are in good overall health for minor surgery
  • Have realistic expectations about scarring

If you’re in the Danville area with a concerning skin growth, our expert team can evaluate whether surgical excision is the best treatment option during a comprehensive consultation.

Patients with certain bleeding disorders, active infections or inflammation at the site, or unrealistic expectations about scarring may not be ideal candidates for immediate excision.

Why Choose a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Selecting a board-certified dermatologist for your excision procedure ensures optimal results and safety. Proper surgical technique, complete removal, and meticulous wound closure are essential for preventing recurrence and achieving excellent cosmetic outcomes. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our surgeons have extensive experience with skin surgery and understand the nuances of removing different types of growths while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Plan

During your consultation in Danville, Dr. Potozkin or Dr. Ellis will examine your growth, discuss your concerns, and explain the excision process in detail. We’ll review the procedure, expected recovery time, and post-operative care instructions. Whether you have a single cyst or multiple lipomas, we’ll create a customized surgical plan designed to achieve complete removal with optimal healing and minimal scarring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Excision

Will the cyst or lipoma come back after removal?

When completely excised with the entire capsule or surrounding tissue, cysts and lipomas rarely recur. However, new growths can develop in other locations, especially in patients prone to these conditions.

How is excision different from drainage?

Simple drainage only removes the contents but leaves the capsule behind, leading to almost certain recurrence. Complete excision removes the entire growth and capsule, providing permanent resolution.

What does recovery involve?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Sutures are typically removed in 1-2 weeks, and normal activities can be resumed once sutures are removed, avoiding strenuous exercise initially.

Will there be a scar?

Some scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, but our techniques minimize scarring. Incisions are placed strategically and closed in layers to promote optimal healing and the least noticeable scar possible.

Is the removed tissue tested?

Yes, all excised tissue is sent for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any unexpected findings, ensuring complete peace of mind.

What Our Patients Have to Say

Doctors Ellis and Potozkin

Why Choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology

Patients from San Francisco, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Orinda, Moraga, Alamo, and Blackhawk choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for our unparalleled expertise and results.

We combine the science of dermatology with the artistry of aesthetics to deliver natural-looking enhancements that build confidence. With board-certified dermatologists performing all injections and a comprehensive range of laser technologies delivered by skilled providers, we provide both safety and excellence in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.

Unlike other practices, we complement our advanced treatments with physician-selected medical-grade skincare products and begin every aesthetic journey with our signature DermDesigned consultation. Whether you're seeking cosmetic enhancement or medical dermatology care, our commitment to natural-looking results and excellence ensures you'll receive the highest standard of care in the East Bay.

Visit Us In Danville

Experience world-class dermatology care right here in the East Bay.

Our Location

600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 Danville, CA 94526

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Contact Us

925.838.4900