Cyst Treatment in Cary, NC: Safe Removal and Relief for Painful Bumps

Cysts are common skin lesions that can develop when a hair follicle or oil gland becomes clogged. They are usually small, round, and filled with a thick, white or yellowish substance. While many cysts are harmless, they can be painful, unsightly, or prone to infection. At Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics in Cary, Dr. Zain Husain, MD offers safe, effective treatment for cysts. Patients come from Raleigh, Apex, and Chapel Hill for his expertise in cyst removal and care.

A Word from Dr. Husain

“Cysts are one of those things that people often try to deal with at home. But squeezing or popping a cyst can make it worse, leading to infection or scarring. I see patients who have been dealing with a cyst for months, and we can usually take care of it in one visit. My goal is to remove it safely and help you prevent future ones.”

Dr. Zain Husain, MD
Board-Certified Dermatologist, Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics

What Is a Cyst?

A cyst is a closed, sac like pocket of tissue that can be filled with fluid, air, or other material. In the skin, cysts often form from clogged oil glands or hair follicles. The most common type is an epidermoid cyst, which is usually filled with a thick, yellowish substance made of keratin.

Cysts can appear anywhere on your body, but they are most common on the face, neck, chest, back, and scalp. They can vary in size from a small pea to a large grape. Dr. Husain has treated patients from Morrisville, Durham, and across the Triangle, helping them find relief from painful or bothersome cysts.

What Causes Cysts?

Cysts develop when a hair follicle or skin pore becomes blocked. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including trauma to the skin, a buildup of dead skin cells, or a genetic predisposition. Some people are simply more prone to developing cysts than others.

Infection or inflammation can also cause a cyst to form or enlarge. That is why it is important to avoid picking or squeezing them.

Treatment Options for Cysts at Noor Dermatology

Dr. Husain offers several treatment options depending on the size, location, and type of cyst.

Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and shrink a cyst, especially if it is red, painful, or swollen. This is a quick, in-office treatment that can provide significant relief.

For cysts that are large, persistent, or painful, surgical excision is the most effective option. Dr. Husain numbs the area, makes a small incision, and removes the entire cyst, including its outer wall. This is important because if the wall is left behind, the cyst is likely to grow back.

In some cases, Dr. Husain may recommend drainage or a smaller procedure called an incision and drainage, which relieves pressure and pain but may not prevent recurrence.

What You Can Do at Home

If you have a cyst, the most important thing is to leave it alone. Do not squeeze, pop, or pick at it. This can lead to infection, scarring, and a worse outcome. Keep the area clean and dry with gentle, non-irritating skincare products.

If your cyst becomes red, painful, or swollen, or if it starts to drain, call our office. Dr. Husain may want to see you sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cysts

Q: Are cysts dangerous?
Most cysts are benign and not harmful. However, they can become infected, painful, or grow large enough to cause discomfort. Some cysts can also be a sign of an underlying condition, so it is a good idea to have any new or changing growth evaluated.

Q: Will a cyst go away on its own?
Some small cysts may go away on their own, but many persist and require treatment. If a cyst is bothering you, it is best to have it looked at.

Q: Can I drain a cyst at home?
No. Attempting to drain a cyst at home can lead to infection and scarring. Let Dr. Husain handle it in a sterile, controlled environment.

Q: Will a cyst come back after treatment?
If the cyst wall is completely removed during surgery, it is unlikely to come back. If only drained or partially removed, it can recur.

Q: Are cysts related to acne?
Not directly. Acne is caused by clogged pores and bacteria, while cysts are usually caused by blocked hair follicles or oil glands. However, some people with acne are more prone to developing cysts.

Ready to Have Your Cyst Evaluated?

If you have a cyst that is painful, growing, or just bothering you, Dr. Husain can help. He will evaluate it and recommend the best treatment for your skin.

Call our Cary office today or request an appointment online. You do not have to live with a painful or unsightly bump.

Noor Dermatology & Aesthetics – Cary, NC
Serving patients from Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Morrisville, Chapel Hill, and across the Triangle