After you go through a pilonidal cyst surgery and it heals, you need to restore the lower back area, not just your body. For this purpose, a pilonidal cyst lift is being used by most people.
Pilonidal cyst surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed for the treatment of chronic cases of pilonidal disease. Pilonidal sinus surgery is a procedure that removes the cyst, relieving the pressure and symptoms associated with it. This article will discuss the causes of pilonidal disease, how to get rid of this condition, and what to do after having a pilonidal cyst removed.
Pilonidal cyst surgery is an effective treatment for the painful, bothersome, and sometimes embarrassing pilonidal cyst. It’s also important to know how to care for your wound properly so that it won’t get worse or cause infection.
vitamins for pilonidal cyst
Pilonidal sinus surgery can be a relatively straightforward procedure. It is often performed in the outpatient department with general anesthesia and there are few complications that are important to address immediately following surgery.
Pilonidal cyst removal, known as “pilonidal surgery”, is a simple and safe procedure that can help you feel better, be happier and live your life to the fullest. The result of this surgery is pain relief, improved appearance, and more self-esteem.
Pilonidal cysts are common and can occur in any anatomical area of the body. They usually cause no pain or discomfort and are easily overlooked, even by experienced doctors. In most cases, they will go on to simply resolve themselves on their own. But if left untreated and left to continue to grow they can become disfiguring, painful and potentially life-threatening.
pilonidal sinus surgery
What is a cyst?
Cysts are hard lumps filled with various substances that form in the body. There are many types. The most common type is an epidermoid cyst, which grows right under the skin.
Doctors or surgeons may help you remove this type of cyst. This is the only reliable way to remove one completely.
On the other hand, you can also try home remedies for your epidermoid cyst. These may help shrink it, reduce its appearance, or alleviate discomfort.
A precautionary note
Before discussing home remedies, it’s necessary to go over a few important details:
You should never try to remove or pop a cyst at home. This increases chances of infection. Popping also doesn’t guarantee a cyst will go away permanently.
None of the remedies in this article are known or proven to remove cysts completely. However, science suggests they may help in indirect ways.
Even if they’re not yet proven to work, trying these remedies poses few risks if used correctly.
Remember: If your cyst isn’t causing you problems, you don’t necessarily always need to remove it.
Talk with your doctor if the cyst:
bothers you aesthetically
gets infected
causes pain
grows rapidly in size
- Hot compress
Simple heat is the most recommended and effective home measure for draining or shrinking cysts.
Here’s how it works: Heat may reduce the thickness of liquid in the cyst. In the case of liquid-filled epidermoid cysts, this may help fluid drain quicker into the lymphatic system. This system helps maintain fluid balance in the body and plays a role in protection against infection.
Keep in mind
Though this remedy is widely recommended by doctors and reputable sources, there are still no studies testing or showing that it’s effective. There’s also no research supporting the science for how it works.
As well, it doesn’t permanently remove cysts — only a healthcare professional can do that. Although this method isn’t guaranteed to drain or reduce the appearance of a cyst, it may be worth a try.
To use
Heat clean water to a warm or hot temperature, not boiling.
Wait for the water to cool to a tolerable, but hot, temperature for skin contact.
Dampen a clean cloth with the water and apply to the cyst for 20 to 30 minutes.
Repeat a few times each day.
- Tea tree oil
Essential oil from the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) may help some cysts, albeit in an indirect way.
ResearchTrusted Source shows tea tree oil has antimicrobial activity. This means it kills bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens, though it’s not as strong or effective as synthetic compounds.
Some cysts are caused by ingrown hairs. These form when hair follicles don’t grow properly, leading to infection of a sebaceous gland. This creates a pus pocket that may become a cyst, referred to as a sebaceous cyst.
As an antimicrobial, tea tree oil may help kill bacterial infections caused by ingrown hairs. It may decrease the chances of getting a cyst caused by an ingrown hair or reduce its appearance.
Keep in mind
Overall, tea tree oil isn’t a proven cyst remedy. There are still no studies that show it can remove or prevent cysts.
Also, since not all cysts are caused by ingrown hairs, tea tree oil is highly unlikely to help all types of cysts — though trying it is low risk and may help in shrinking the cyst.
To use
Dilute tea tree essential oil in clean, warm, or hot water. Dilution ratio is two to three drops per 1 ounce of water.
Apply the mixture directly to the cyst several times per day with a clean cloth.
You can also combine tea tree oil applications with the above hot water compress remedy. Simply add essential oil to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.
Avoid applying undiluted tea tree essential oil directly to the cyst or skin. This may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns. Always dilute the oil before topical use.
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- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another recommended natural remedy. It may help with cysts to a limited extent.
There are no studies showing apple cider vinegar reduces cysts or removes them.
But, like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar is shownTrusted Source to be antimicrobial at full strength. This is thanks to the acetic acid. It might not be as effective at lower strengths against some types of microbes, but it’s still important to dilute it before applying it to your skin.
Keep in mind
Apple cider vinegar may be effective for certain kinds of cysts, such as those caused by bacteria, but there’s no guarantee. It may still be worth a try since there are very few health risks.
To use
Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar.
Apply this dilution directly to the cyst several times per day.
You can combine apple cider vinegar applications with the hot water compress home remedy. Simply add the apple cider vinegar to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.
Never apply undiluted apple cider vinegar directly to skin. Acetic acids may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns.
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- Aloe vera
Research shows that aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Both may help with pain and irritation in cysts.
Aloe vera may also help reduce the appearance or get rid of certain cysts caused by bacteria or other pathogens.
Keep in mind
In studies, aloe vera hasn’t been shown to reliably remove, drain, or reduce the appearance of cysts. It could be helpful for discomfort and pain, though more research is needed to fully support this.
To use
Following label directions, apply a pure aloe vera gel, cream, or lotion directly to an irritated or painful cyst as often as needed.
Only source aloe products from reputable and trustworthy companies. It’s best to look at the ingredients list to be sure you’re getting pure aloe.
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- Castor oil
Oil from the castor plant (Ricinis communis) may help cysts in the same vein as apple cider vinegar or tea tree.
Research shows castor oil is antimicrobial. It’s notably effective at killing bacteria that live in the skin, which can cause acne and cysts.
Keep in mind
Castor oil isn’t a proven cure for cysts, nor is it shown to reduce their appearance.
It’s also unlikely to help all types of cysts, only the types caused by bacteria — though there’s no guarantee it helps with those types either.
To use
Make sure to source a 100 percent pure castor oil product. Only purchase products from trustworthy companies with good reputations.
Put one drop of castor oil on your finger and apply to the cyst.
Apply more if needed, as often as needed. A few times each day is recommended.
Avoid ingesting castor oil if you’re pregnant or allergic to the substance. Also, be aware that it can cause diarrhea if consumed.
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- Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a common topical wash for acne. ResearchTrusted Source indicates it may help acne due to the astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties could also benefit epidermoid cysts. It’s possible that witch hazel’s astringent tannins may help shrink them, while anti-inflammatory effects could ease pain.
Keep in mind
There are still no direct studies showing that witch hazel can treat cysts. It’s unlikely that it helps to remove them, though it may ease discomfort.
To use
Dab a cotton ball with witch hazel.
Apply to the cyst area.
Repeat a few times per day or as often as you’d like.
People with sensitive skin may have reactions to witch hazel, but this can be avoided by diluting witch hazel with water.
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- Honey
Some recommend honey for cyst management, though research on this is scarce. However, a 2017 reviewTrusted Source of studies indicated it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Keep in mind
There’s not enough research to call honey a cyst treatment or remover. Using it may help with discomfort as well as cysts caused by bacteria.
To use
One method is to create a poultice by mixing honey, preferably raw and all-natural, with other antimicrobial herbs and ingredients. You then apply the mixture to the cyst and leave it on overnight.
Alternatively, try this simpler technique:
Put a dab of pure honey on the cyst site.
Leave the honey on the cyst for a few hours, as a longer amount of time may help it to be more effective.
Wash the honey away, and apply more as often as you would like.
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- Turmeric
While turmeric alone won’t get rid of a cyst, the spice has well-known anti-inflammatory propertiesTrusted Source that may help with the healing process.
Keep in mind
Turmeric isn’t a cure for cysts. There’s also no guarantee that it’ll prevent or reduce swelling. And it might not help at all with certain types of cysts.
To use
If possible, use fresh turmeric powder.
Mix turmeric with water to create a paste.
Apply it to the cyst as needed.
A word of caution: Turmeric may cause skin reactions in some people. Before applying it directly to your cyst, patch test it on another small area of skin.
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Can you prevent a cyst from forming?
You can’t prevent a cyst from forming, but you can prevent one from getting infected. The best way to do this is to avoid:
squeezing it
popping it
poking it with anything
cutting it open
FAQs about cysts
Is it possible for a cyst to become infected?
Yes. If a cyst is opened and exposed to the elements, bacteria can be introduced into the wound. This can potentially cause an infection.
When should you see a doctor about a cyst?
If your cyst shows signs of infection, it’s time to see a doctor.
Signs of infection include:
redness
swelling
pain
being hot to the touch
pus
Can cysts go away on their own?
It depends on the type of cyst. However, most epidermoid cysts go away on their own and don’t require a doctor’s visit.
The bottom line
Some home remedies can help with certain aspects of cysts, or specific types. Hot water compresses are most recommended by reputable sources.
Before using topical natural remedies, do a skin patch test: Apply a small amount to your forearm, and then wait for 24 hours to see if you have an allergic reaction. Though these are rare, they could happen.
If a home remedy causes discomfort, irritation, or other unusual symptoms, discontinue use immediately. Talk with your doctor instead about cyst treatment.
What is a pilonidal cyst?
A pilonidal cyst is a sac filled with hair, skin, and other debris. It typically forms at the top of the buttocks, right between the cleft, which separates the two cheeks.
You can get a pilonidal cyst when a hair gets lodged inside your skin. Friction on the ingrown hair from sitting or rubbing can irritate your skin and cause the cyst to form.
Sometimes, these cysts become infected and a pocket of pus called an abscess forms.
Pilonidal cysts are more common in men and people who sit for long periods of time, such as office workers are truck drivers. You’re also more likely to get one of these cysts if you have thick, stiff body hair.
What can I do at home?
The only way to get rid of a pilonidal cyst is through a minor surgical procedure. But there are a few things you can do at home to ease pain and discomfort in the meantime.
Try applying a hot, wet compress to the cyst a few times a day. The heat will help pull out the pus, allowing the cyst to drain. This can relieve pain and itching.
You might also try soaking the area in a warm, shallow bath. You can also try taking a sitz bath.
If the cyst hurts, you can take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen (Advil).
Can I pop it?
A pilonidal cyst can look similar to a pimple, tempting some to pop them with their fingers. But popping a pilonidal cyst won’t fix the problem. Remember pilonidal cysts are filled with hair and other debris in addition to pus, and you won’t be able to get it all out by squeezing.
The location of pilonidal cysts can make it hard to see what you’re doing. You also run the risk of developing an infection or leaving a scar.
How will a doctor treat it?
Pilonidal cysts are treated with a simple in-office procedure. A doctor will start by numbing the area with an injection of a local anesthetic. Next, they’ll use a surgical knife to make a small incision to help drain the pus and debris from the cyst.
Once everything has been removed from the cyst, they’ll pack the wound with sterile gauze or close it with stitches, depending on the location. Make sure to follow the wound care instructions from your doctor as you recover.
Sometimes, a pilonidal cyst will reappear in the same area, even if you recently had one drained. When this happens, you may need a more extensive surgical procedure to remove the entire cyst, not just the internal contents.
How can I prevent pilonidal cysts?
Once you’ve had a pilonidal cyst surgically drained, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing another one.
First, try to avoid sitting for long periods of time, which places pressure on the area where pilonidal cysts develop. If you’re job requires you to sit for most of the day, try to set aside a few minutes every hour to stand up and take a quick walk.
Carrying extra weight can also make you more prone to developing pilonidal cysts. Your doctor can give you a better idea of whether your weight may be playing a role in your cysts.
Finally, try to keep the area between the cheeks of your buttocks as clean and dry as possible. Wearing correct-fitting clothes can help to prevent sweat from collecting there. In addition, consider removing any hair you have growing near the top of your buttocks.
The bottom line
Home treatments can relieve discomfort from a pilonidal cyst. But to get rid of it for good, you’ll need to see a doctor. To prevent cysts from forming again in the future, avoid prolonged sitting. Keep the area above your buttocks clean, dry, and free from hair.