Minor Surgery

Minor Surgery

Dr Martyn King | Cosmedic Skin Clinic | Staffordshire

Minor skin surgery involves the careful removal of small benign skin lesions under local anaesthetic. At Cosmedic Skin Clinic, we primarily treat smaller lesions such as sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts, and other superficial benign lumps that may cause discomfort, recurrent infection, or cosmetic concern.

Sebaceous cysts are common, slow-growing lumps beneath the skin that form when a hair follicle or oil gland becomes blocked. While often harmless, they can become inflamed, infected, or cosmetically bothersome over time.

Minor surgical removal is a definitive treatment option that aims to remove the entire cyst capsule, helping to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Summary

• Procedure time: 30–60 minutes
• Downtime: 3–14 days depending on size and location
• Discomfort: Mild to moderate (Local anaesthetic)
• Anaesthetic: Local anaesthetic
• Onset of results: Immediate removal
• Peak/final results: 1–2 weeks for skin closure; full healing over several weeks, sutures removed between 7-10 days
• Duration: Permanent removal in most cases
• Maintenance: Usually one treatment; occasional repeat treatment may be required

Pricing

• Small cyst removal: £250

💡 Final pricing depends on lesion size, location, and complexity of removal.

How it works

Minor surgical removal of sebaceous cysts involves the precise excision of the cyst under sterile conditions.

The procedure typically involves:

• Careful assessment and marking of the lesion
• Injection of local anaesthetic to numb the area
• A small incision made over the cyst
• Removal of the cyst and its capsule in full
• Closure of the wound using sutures (if required)
• Application of a dressing to protect the area

Complete removal of the cyst capsule is essential to reduce the risk of recurrence.

What areas can be treated

Commonly Treated Lesions

• Sebaceous cysts (epidermoid cysts)
• Small benign skin lumps
• Inflamed or recurrent cysts
• Non-suspicious superficial nodules

Important Note

All lesions are clinically assessed prior to treatment. If there is any concern regarding diagnosis, appearance, or behaviour of a lesion, further investigation or referral may be recommended before treatment proceeds.

Suspicious lesions, changing moles, pigmented lesions of uncertain diagnosis, or possible skin cancers may require referral to a specialist service for further assessment.

Am I suitable?

You may be suitable if you:

• Have a confirmed benign cyst or skin lump
• Experience discomfort, infection, or cosmetic concern
• Are in good general health
• Want definitive surgical removal

You may not be suitable if you:

• Have suspected malignant or undiagnosed lesions
• Have active skin infection in the treatment area
• Have uncontrolled medical conditions affecting healing
• Are on certain medications affecting wound healing or bleeding (requires review)
• Have unrealistic expectations regarding scarring

A full clinical assessment is essential before proceeding.

Pre-treatment advice

Before treatment:

• Inform your clinician of all medications (especially blood thinners)
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior where possible
• Eat and drink normally unless advised otherwise
• Keep the area clean and avoid irritation
• Do not apply creams or products to the treatment area on the day

Post-treatment advice

After treatment:

• Keep the wound clean and dry for the advised period
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 48–72 hours
• Avoid soaking the area (baths/swimming) until healed
• Attend for suture removal if required (usually 7–14 days)
• Follow all wound care instructions carefully
• Protect the area from sun exposure during healing
• A small scar is expected following surgical removal.

Healing times vary according to lesion size and location.

Side-effects & complications

Minor skin surgery is generally safe when performed by a trained medical practitioner.

Common (temporary):

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Mild pain or tenderness
• Temporary redness
• Scarring

Less common:

• Wound infection
• Delayed healing
• Bleeding or haematoma
• Wound breakdown

Rare:

• Recurrence of cyst if incomplete removal
• Significant scarring or keloid formation
• Adverse reaction to local anaesthetic
• Altered sensation around scar area

Proper technique and aftercare help minimise complications.

Benefits

• Definitive removal of cysts and small lumps
• Reduces risk of recurrent infection
• Improves comfort and cosmetic appearance
• Quick outpatient procedure
• Performed under local anaesthetic
• High success rate
• Suitable for problematic or inflamed cysts
• Permanent results in most cases

Advice from Dr Martyn King

Dr Martyn King, Cosmedic Skin Clinic, Staffordshire

"Minor skin surgery allows us to safely and effectively remove small benign lumps such as sebaceous cysts with a high degree of precision. The key to successful treatment is complete removal of the cyst capsule, which significantly reduces the risk of recurrence. Careful assessment is always essential to ensure the lesion is appropriate for treatment in a clinic setting."