What to expect from cyst removal for a scalp cyst

A pilar cyst, also called a trichilemmal cyst, forms from a hair-follicle structure and commonly appears as a smooth lump on the scalp. The clinician examines its size, mobility, and surrounding skin before choosing the removal approach. Local anaesthetic numbs the scalp while the cyst and capsule are separated from nearby tissue.

You may notice pressure, pulling, or the sound of instruments, but the treated skin should be numb. Stitches or a dressing may be used. Scalp swelling, tenderness, a small amount of staining on the dressing, and temporary hair disruption near the incision can occur.

Follow the instructions about when to remove or replace the dressing and when to wash your hair. Use gentle handling around the wound, avoid scratching or picking, and keep combs, hats, and helmets from rubbing the area until advised. Take only recommended pain relief and keep any stitch-removal appointment.

If hair makes the dressing difficult to manage, ask the clinic to demonstrate the technique. Do not pull at dried blood or crusts. Once the wound has closed, ask how to protect the scar from sun and friction.

Contact the treating clinic if bleeding continues, the wound opens, or scalp pain, swelling, or redness increases. Pus, a bad smell, fever, or feeling unwell needs medical assessment. Seek review if the lump reforms, becomes rapidly tender, or develops drainage, since that may represent recurrence or a separate cyst.

Ask when hair washing is safe, how to protect the incision while combing, whether the cyst will be examined, when stitches come out, and what recurrence would look like.