Sebaceous Cyst Removal in Seomyeon, Busan
Sebaceous cyst removal is minor surgery to remove an epidermoid cyst (표피낭종), a slow-growing lump under the skin filled with keratin that may have a small central pore and can become infected. In Seomyeon, Busan, surgical and skin clinics usually remove a quiet cyst under local anesthesia in about 15–40 minutes, taking out the whole sac to prevent recurrence.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What is a sebaceous cyst?
Most lumps called sebaceous cysts are actually epidermoid cysts: sacs lined by skin cells that fill with soft keratin. They often have a tiny dark opening (punctum) and are common on the face, neck, back, chest and scalp (where pilar cysts also occur). They can stay the same size for years, slowly enlarge or suddenly become red and painful when the wall ruptures or becomes infected. The cyst wall must be removed completely, or it tends to refill.
Who is it for?
- Cysts that are growing, unsightly or catching on clothing
- Cysts that have been inflamed or infected before
- Cysts with an unpleasant smell or repeated discharge
- Lumps where the diagnosis is uncertain
Avoid squeezing a cyst, which can rupture the wall and trigger inflammation.
What happens at the clinic
- Examination: the doctor checks the lump and punctum; ultrasound may be used to measure size and depth.
- Inflamed cyst: if red and painful, it may be lanced and drained, with removal planned once healed (often after several weeks).
- Excision: after local anesthetic, an elliptical incision around the punctum or a small punch opening is used to remove the sac intact.
- Closure: fine stitches; small minimal-incision removals may need just one or two.
- Pathology: tissue may be sent to confirm the diagnosis.
Recovery and aftercare
Keep the wound clean and dry for a day or two, then follow dressing instructions. Mild soreness is common. Face stitches usually come out around five to seven days; body stitches around one to two weeks. Protect the scar from sun as it matures.
Risks and side effects
Risks include infection, bleeding, a visible scar and recurrence if fragments of the wall remain, which is more likely when a cyst is removed while inflamed. Minimal-incision techniques give smaller scars but may carry slightly higher recurrence for some cysts.
Choosing a clinic for cyst removal in Seomyeon
- Ask whether the surgeon removes the whole sac and how recurrence is minimised.
- For facial cysts, ask about minimal-scar techniques and stitch type.
- If the cyst is currently inflamed, ask whether to drain now and excise later.
- Ask whether ultrasound is used for deeper cysts.
- Clarify the stitch-removal date before booking travel.
Local note
Cyst removal is a short appointment, simple to arrange around other plans. Seomyeon sits on Busan Metro Lines 1 and 2, putting clinics within easy reach.
Key facts
- What it is: usually an epidermoid cyst; true sebaceous cysts are less common
- Signs: round lump, central dark pore, cheesy material if squeezed
- Best timing: remove when not inflamed for complete excision
- Inflamed cyst: drainage and sometimes antibiotics first, removal later
- Procedure time: about 15–40 minutes
- Anesthesia: local
- Stitches: removed in about 5–14 days depending on site
Frequently asked questions
Can I squeeze out a sebaceous cyst?
It is best not to. Squeezing can rupture the cyst wall under the skin, causing painful inflammation and infection, and the cyst will usually refill because the sac remains.
Why do cysts come back after draining?
Draining empties the contents but leaves the wall that produces keratin. Complete removal of the sac is needed to prevent recurrence.
Should an infected cyst be removed immediately?
Often it is drained first and treated until inflammation settles. Complete removal is usually easier and more successful several weeks later.
Will cyst removal leave a scar?
There will be a small scar, usually a little longer than the cyst's width. Minimal-incision techniques and careful stitching help, especially on the face.
How long does recovery take?
Most people return to normal activities the same day or next day. Stitches come out after about five to fourteen days depending on the site.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.