Removing a fairly large epidermal cyst on the elbow typically involves a minor surgical procedure that is usually performed under local anesthesia. Here’s a general idea of what the procedure might involve:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the area around the cyst to prevent pain during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision in the skin over the cyst. If the cyst is large, the incision might need to be a bit longer to remove it properly.
- Cyst Removal: The surgeon will carefully separate the cyst from the surrounding tissue and remove it entirely. In some cases, if the cyst has ruptured or is difficult to remove in one piece, they may need to remove the contents first before excising the cyst sac itself.
- Closing the Incision: Once the cyst is fully removed, the incision will be closed with sutures. Depending on the size, stitches may be dissolvable or require removal after a week or so.
- Aftercare: You’ll need to care for the wound after the procedure by keeping it clean and dry. The surgeon may advise you to avoid strenuous activity for a period to allow the area to heal properly.
The recovery time is usually short, but it can vary depending on the size of the cyst and the specific surgical method used. Most people can return to normal activities within a week or two, though the healing process for the skin might take a bit longer.
Have you been considering this procedure, or are you just gathering info about it?
