What should you know about removal of sebaceous cyst on back?

What people call a sebaceous cyst is often an epidermoid cyst: a rounded lump beneath the skin that may have a small central opening. It can remain painless, rub against clothing, or become swollen and sore when inflamed. A new or changing [Skin Lump](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) should be assessed rather than identified by appearance alone.

Do not squeeze, puncture, or repeatedly press the lump. Keep the area clean and arrange an examination. If it is inflamed, a clinician may first consider [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) or, when infected fluid has collected, [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/). Once inflammation is controlled, [Cyst Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cyst-removal/) can remove the sac through a planned procedure. Ask about wound care, activity limits, and scar placement.

Seek prompt care for rapid enlargement, increasing warmth, severe tenderness, spreading redness, pus, fever, or feeling unwell. A lump that bleeds, ulcerates, feels fixed, or keeps returning also needs review. Do not wait for a routine appointment if redness is spreading quickly or pain is severe.

Ask whether the lump is consistent with a cyst, whether it is infected, and whether removal should wait until inflammation settles. Ask if the cyst wall will be removed, how recurrence and scarring will be managed, and which wound changes need a review.