A pilonidal cyst is a painful, pimple-like boil that develops at the bottom of the tailbone. If you believe you have this condition, we offer pilonidal cyst treatment for those in Phoenix, Buckeye, Surprise, and the surrounding areas.
A pilonidal cyst is typically found near the tailbone at the top of the buttocks. It is a pimple-like pocket in the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. Pilonidal cysts range in size and severity. They may become infected and filled with pus (a pilonidal abscess), a condition that can be painful. Pilonidal cysts are more common in men than in women, and tend to afflict those who are often sitting down.
Although the exact cause is unknown, pilonidal cysts are believed to develop from ingrown hairs, trauma, obesity, excessive amounts of hair, prolonged sitting, and/or sweating.
Treatment for pilonidal cysts can include:
A cut is made into the cyst to drain it. If there are any hair follicles present inside the cyst, they are removed. The cyst is then packed with gauze and left open. The gauze will need to be changed out frequently until the cyst heals, which may take up to three weeks. This procedure is done under local anesthesia, and is the typical technique done for the first pilonidal cyst.
This technique is the same as incision and drainage, only the wound is closed afterward. With this method, it is more difficult to remove the entire cyst, which may cause future issues with the cyst.
The cyst is cut into a drained, and any hair or pus inside are removed. The edges of the cut will be sewn to the wound edges to make a pouch — like a marsupial. This technique requires a cut that is smaller and more shallow, which means you will not need to change out the gauze every day. There is considerable healing time with marsupialization: about six weeks.
If your pilonidal cyst is severe or continues to return even after treatment, surgery may be recommended. In this surgery, the cyst and pilonidal sinus tracts are completely removed. Pilonidal cyst surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes to perform. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. It’s important for patients to be aware that a pilonidal cyst may return even if they are surgically removed.
To best prevent the return of your pilonidal cyst, it’s very important to carefully follow all of the home care instructions that we provide you with—especially if you’ll be required to change out any gauze. Your follow-up appointments will be important to keep. If you are prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take all of them. Be sure to keep the treated area clean and be mindful of any signs of infection. This can include fever or pus draining from your incision, as well as redness, swelling, warmth, and/or increased pain at the incision. Most patients are able to resume their regular activities 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, and during that time you will need to avoid strenuous activities, use a donut cushion to sit on, and be careful not to sit for prolonged periods of time—and never on a hard surface.
If you’re considering pilonidal cyst surgery in Phoenix, Buckeye, Surprise, or the surrounding areas, you may be a good candidate for the procedure. The best candidates are those:
At Regency, dermatology is one of our specialties. If you’re interested in pilonidal cyst treatment in Phoenix, Buckeye, Surprise, or the nearby areas, schedule a consultation with us. We are a multi-specialty group delivering the very best treatments in dermatology, and our team provides the highest level of care and availability, with professionalism, sensitivity, and warmth. We make you feel welcome from the moment you enter our door to your very last follow-up appointment. To learn more or schedule a consultation, please call 623-243-9077 or contact us online.
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