Sebaceous cysts are slow-growing, benign lumps that often form beneath the skin on the face, scalp, neck, or back. At City Dermatology Clinic, based in Harley Street and the City of London, we offer professional sebaceous cyst removal performed by GMC-registered dermatologists and surgeons – with same-day appointments and quick, discreet treatment options. NHS wait times for cyst removal are often long or unavailable, but our London clinic offers fast access with minimal scarring and trusted clinical care.
Sebaceous cysts (also known as epidermoid or epidermal cysts) are typically harmless but can grow, become infected, or cause cosmetic concern. Our specialists offer expert diagnosis and removal.
Surgical Excision
This is the most effective and permanent treatment. The entire cyst, including its sac, is removed through a small incision under local anaesthetic. This prevents recurrence and allows for histology if needed.
Incision & Drainage (Temporary Relief)
If the cyst is infected or inflamed, drainage may be required first. This helps relieve pressure or infection, but it is not a long-term solution — full excision is needed to prevent regrowth.
Histology
If the cyst is unusual, painful, or rapidly growing, we can send the tissue for lab testing. This is often recommended for reassurance and clinical safety.
Scar-Minimising Techniques
Our surgeons use precise incision lines and fine sutures, especially for cysts in visible areas such as the face or scalp, to reduce scarring and support clean healing.
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Clinical Consultation | A dermatologist or surgeon assesses the cyst to confirm the diagnosis and decide on treatment. If suitable, same-day removal is often offered. |
| Local Anaesthetic | The area is numbed with a small injection to ensure a pain-free experience. |
| Cyst Removal | A small incision is made over the cyst, and the entire sac is removed in one piece. If inflamed, a staged approach may be used. |
| Wound Closure | The area is closed using dissolvable or fine sutures. We minimise scarring by placing incisions in natural skin folds where possible. |
| Aftercare | Patients are given full aftercare instructions, and follow-up is available if needed. Recovery is typically quick with minimal discomfort. |
| Symptoms | Causes |
|---|---|
| Smooth, round lump under the skin, often moveable | Blocked sebaceous (oil) gland or hair follicle |
| Grows slowly and may become swollen or tender | Skin trauma, acne history, or hereditary factors |
| Can become inflamed, red, or discharge pus | Rupture of the cyst sac or bacterial infection |
| Cosmetic concern or discomfort in daily movement | Build-up of keratin beneath the skin surface |
Our London team includes both medical dermatologists and surgical specialists, so you receive the most appropriate care for your skin and cyst type.
We offer fast access to cyst removal – often on the same day as your consultation – without needing a GP referral or waiting list.
Whether your cyst is on the face, scalp, or body, our procedures are performed with cosmetic sensitivity to reduce scarring and preserve your natural appearance.
Located in Harley Street and the City of London, our clinic is convenient for in-person consultations and post-op care with complete privacy.
Our sebaceous cyst removals are performed by an expert team of dermatologists and minor surgery specialists at City Dermatology Clinic, London. Whether for cosmetic, comfort, or medical reasons, our team ensures safe, clean removal with minimal downtime. Each case is assessed individually to provide personalised advice and lasting results.
A sebaceous cyst is a non-cancerous lump beneath the skin that forms when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. It’s filled with keratin or oil-like material. Most are harmless but can grow, become infected, or rupture – in which case removal is recommended.
Not if the entire cyst sac is removed. Our surgeons aim to extract the full capsule in one piece, which greatly reduces the risk of recurrence. Incomplete removal or draining only increases the chance of it returning.
No – the procedure is done under local anaesthetic, making it completely painless. It usually takes 20–40 minutes depending on the size and location. You can leave the clinic immediately after.
Some scarring is possible, but we use fine suturing and incision placement techniques to minimise visibility. On areas like the face or scalp, our surgeons take extra care to support the best cosmetic outcome.
Only in certain cases. The NHS may decline removal if the cyst is classed as “cosmetic” and not infected or medically urgent. Many patients choose private removal with us to avoid delays and ensure a permanent, clean result.
Our clinic is perfectly located in Central London near a number of conveniently located stations.
Warwick House,
65-66 Queen Street
London
EC4R 1EB
0208 050 5981
Nearest Stations:
4 Harley Street
London
W1G 9PB
0208 050 5981
Nearest Stations:
Experience exceptional care with our team of leading dermatologists in London at our private clinic, dedicated to providing outstanding skin health services in a state-of-the-art facility. Choose City Dermatology Clinic for private, expert dermatological care in the City of London.
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