It is unsettling to have an unexplained growth on your body. But when you find one growing under your hair, it can be terrifying because it is in a strange spot, and you can not see it.
Cysts on the scalp are so prevalent that they have their own name: pilar cysts. However, they are typically treatable and not dangerous. The same holds for other cysts that can form on your scalp, such as epidermal, trichilemmal and sebaceous cysts.
If you are lucky, your cyst might naturally disappear. However, if it does not, we can help you.
Risks of Letting Cysts Heal Naturally
Some cysts, particularly those filled with fluid, may naturally disappear over time. For example, the previously raised spot will likely sink to the level of your scalp if the cyst bursts and the fluid within it drains.
The problem is that a lot of cysts that naturally disappear end up returning. Scalp cysts can be uncomfortable, but they are almost always benign. However, benign cysts can cause serious complications, including blood poisoning, if left untreated.
You can keep an eye on your cyst for a few weeks to see if it will go away on its own if it is not bothering you. However, do not hesitate to contact our staff at Medical Dermatology Specialists if the cyst is not getting smaller, it hurts when you brush your hair or it is recurrent.
Getting Rid of Cysts in Atlanta
Our cyst specialists at Medical Dermatology Specialists offer various treatment options for removing pilar cysts and other cysts that can grow on the body.
In most cases, treating a cyst involves draining it properly. When removing a cyst, we numb the area to ensure you are comfortable throughout the minor procedure. We may use fine-needle aspiration to drain the fluid from your cyst, or we may make an incision and remove the contents of your cyst manually. Your cyst should heal within a week or two after this treatment.
In other cases, our Medical Dermatology Specialists professionals may propose surgical removal of the entire cyst or another treatment, depending on what is best for your scalp. If your pilar cyst does not go away on its own, please contact our Atlanta office to schedule an appointment today.
Medical Dermatology Specialists
5730 Glenridge Dr, Suite T-100
Atlanta, GA 30328
(404) 939-9220
Monday – Thursday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
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5730 Glenridge Drive, Suite T-100
Atlanta, GA 30328
Phone: Call (404) 939-9220
FAX: (470) 312-2157
Email: jstalls@atlmedderm.com
