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Cyst Removal in Dublin — Expert, Private Surgery for Sebaceous, Epidermoid and Pilar Cysts

Walk-in, walk-out sebaceous cyst removal under local anaesthetic. No HSE waiting list. Free photo assessment. Same-day treatment available.

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Cyst Removal - At A Glance

Duration

20 to 40 minutes

Anaesthesia

Local Anaesthetic

Return to Work

Same or next day

GP referral

Not required

Private Sebaceous Cyst Removal in Dublin

Sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts, and pilar cysts are common, benign skin lumps that the HSE rarely treats — classifying them as non-urgent or cosmetic regardless of how uncomfortable or troublesome they have become. At Excel Clinic in Dublin, we provide fast, consultant-led cyst removal under local anaesthetic with no waiting list, transparent pricing, and a one-stop service that allows most patients to move from photo assessment to treatment in a single visit.

Complete surgical excision — including full removal of the cyst capsule — is our standard approach, giving you the best chance of a permanent result without recurrence.

Types of Skin Cysts We Remove

We remove the most common types of skin cysts safely and effectively under local anaesthetic. If you are unsure what type of cyst you have, submit photos for a free assessment and our surgical team will advise.

 

Sebaceous Cyst (Epidermoid Cyst)

The most common type of skin cyst. Sebaceous and epidermoid cysts form beneath the skin when skin cells become trapped rather than shed normally. They can appear anywhere on the body and may gradually enlarge, become tender, or periodically become inflamed or infected. Surgical excision including the full capsule gives the lowest recurrence rate.

Pilar Cyst

Pilar cysts arise from hair follicles and most commonly appear on the scalp. They are firm, smooth, and slow-growing. Often multiple. Benign and not dangerous, but frequently removed for comfort or cosmetic reasons. Pilar cysts are treated in the same way as epidermoid cysts — surgical excision under local anaesthetic with full capsule removal.

Cysts in Cosmetically Sensitive Areas

Cysts on the face, neck, and scalp require particular care with incision placement and tissue handling to achieve a discreet scar. Dr Butt pays close attention to cosmetic outcome in visible areas, using fine sutures and careful technique to minimise the appearance of the resulting scar.

Cysts on the Hand or Wrist

Cysts affecting the hand or wrist may represent a ganglion cyst, which is connected to a joint or tendon sheath rather than the skin. These are assessed and managed through our orthopaedic hand surgery service with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. See Ganglion Cyst Removal.
Ganglion Cyst Removal
Submit photos for Free Assessment

What is a Sebaceous Cyst?

Overview

A sebaceous cyst — more accurately called an epidermoid cyst — is a benign, non-cancerous lump that develops beneath the skin. Despite the name, most are not formed from sebaceous glands but from trapped skin cells that form a sac filled with a soft, cheesy keratin material. They are completely harmless but can cause pain, embarrassment, recurrent infection, and significant discomfort depending on their size and location. Surgical removal is the only definitive treatment.

diagram of sebaceous cyst
  • Blocked hair follicles or skin ducts — the most common cause
  • Skin trauma — a cut or wound can trigger cyst formation
  • Acne — particularly on the face, back, and chest
  • Genetic conditions — some people are predisposed to developing multiple cysts
  • Sun damage — chronic sun exposure can increase risk on exposed skin
  • In many cases no clear cause is identified

Cysts often cause no symptoms other than a visible lump, but can also present with:

  • A smooth, round, firm lump beneath the skin — often with a central dark dot (punctum)
  • Gradual enlargement — cysts tend to grow slowly over time
  • Tenderness or pain — particularly if the cyst becomes inflamed or infected
  • Redness and swelling — during episodes of inflammation
  • Discharge — a thick, unpleasant-smelling material if the cyst ruptures
  • Discomfort from clothing friction — particularly in areas like the back, armpit, or groin

Surgery is recommended when the cyst is causing pain, has become infected, is growing, is in a cosmetically sensitive location, or has returned after previous drainage. Draining a cyst without removing the capsule almost always results in recurrence — complete surgical excision is the only reliable permanent solution.

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The Sebaceous Cyst Removal Procedure

Cyst removal at Excel Clinic is straightforward and comfortable. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic with complete excision of the cyst and capsule as standard — the approach that gives the best chance of a permanent result.

 
1
Local anaesthetic administered
A small injection numbs the area completely. You remain awake and comfortable — no pain during the procedure.
2
Incision made
A small, carefully placed incision over the cyst, positioned to minimise visible scarring.
3
Full cyst excision
The cyst is carefully removed in full including the entire capsule wall — preventing recurrence.
4
Wound closure
Closed with fine dissolvable sutures and a dressing applied.
5
Walk out same day
You leave within 60–90 minutes of arrival. No overnight stay required.
1
Local anaesthetic
Numbs the area completely. You stay awake and comfortable throughout.
2
Incision made
Small, carefully placed cut over the cyst to minimise scarring.
3
Full cyst excision
Cyst removed in full including the entire capsule to prevent recurrence.
4
Wound closure
Fine dissolvable sutures and a dressing applied.
5
Walk out same day
Discharged within 60–90 minutes. No overnight stay needed.
1
Local anaesthetic administered
A small injection numbs the area completely. You remain awake and comfortable throughout.
2
Incision made
A small, carefully placed cut over the cyst, positioned to minimise visible scarring.
3
Full cyst excision
The cyst removed in full including the entire capsule wall to prevent recurrence.
4
Wound closure
Fine dissolvable sutures and a dressing applied.
5
Walk out same day
You leave within 60–90 minutes. No overnight stay, no general anaesthetic.

Not sure if your lump is suitable for removal?

Submit photos of your lesion using our secure booking form and our surgical team will review them and advise before your appointment — reducing unnecessary visits.

Submit Photos

What to expect after cyst removal

Most patients recover quickly following cyst removal under local anaesthetic. Initial healing usually occurs within 1–2 weeks, with swelling settling over time.

If the cyst is removed in full, including the capsule, recurrence is unlikely. This is why surgical excision is preferred over drainage.

As with any minor surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, bleeding, or scarring, but complications are uncommon. You’ll be given clear aftercare advice to support smooth healing.

What does early healing look like?

The images below show typical early healing following cyst removal. Swelling and redness settle, and scars continue to soften and fade over time.

Skin Cyst on thigh
Skin Cyst on thigh
Skin Cyst on thigh

Why Patients Choose Excel Clinic

HSE waiting lists for elective hand surgery (including ganglion cyst removal) currently stretch to 18 months to 2+ years in many parts of Ireland. We’ve designed our service to be as efficient — and cost-effective — as possible for patients travelling from across Leinster and beyond.

Cosmetic Focus

Careful incision placement and fine sutures in visible areas. Minimising scarring is a priority, not an afterthought.

One stop service

Photo assessment, consultation, and surgery in as few visits as possible — often just one. Saving you time and reducing costs.

Transparent Pricing

All-inclusive fees confirmed before treatment. No hidden charges. Finance options available on enquiry.

Convenient Location

Easily Accessible from Dublin and surrounding counties

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Meet your Surgeon

Dr Javaid Butt
Consultant General Surgeon
FRCS

Dr Javaid Butt is an experienced Consultant General Surgeon with a broad background in both NHS and private surgical practice. He has performed hundreds of cyst excisions across all sites including the face, scalp, neck, back, and body.

His surgical approach places a strong emphasis on complete capsule removal to minimise recurrence, careful incision placement for cosmetically sensitive sites, and precise wound closure to achieve the neatest possible scar.

At Excel Clinic Dublin, Dr Butt provides a consultant-led cyst removal service that the HSE waiting list cannot offer — fast, expert, and focused entirely on your outcome.

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Dr Javaid Butt consultant general surgeon offering minor surgery in Dublin at Excel Clinic

Your Sebaceous Cyst Removal Journey

1. Submit Photos Online

Complete our secure booking form and upload photos of your lesion. Our team reviews them and confirms suitability before your appointment — no unnecessary visits.

2. Assessment & Treatment

Your surgeon examines the cyst and, where appropriate, proceeds with removal in the same visit — our one-stop service saves you time and travel.

3. Walk Out Same Day

Most patients go home within 60 minutes of arriving. No hospital stay, no general anaesthetic, no need for a driver in most cases.

4. Aftercare Support

Clear written aftercare instructions provided. WhatsApp access to our team throughout your recovery. Follow-up included in your fee.

5. Results

Included in your all-inclusive fee. Virtual follow-up available for patients travelling from further afield.

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Pricing

Pricing depends on the size, type, and location of the cyst and is confirmed after physical examination. We are able to provide an approximate quote based on photos. All fees are all-inclusive — no hidden costs.

Photo Assessment

Free

Submit photos online for a free review by our surgical team before your appointment

Consultation Only

€150

In-person consultation if required prior to surgery

Minor Surgery

TBC

All-inclusive fee confirmed after assessment. Covers surgery, anaesthetic, aftercare and follow-up

Histology (laboratory testing of removed tissue) is charged separately if needed and will be confirmed with you in advance. Finance options are available — enquire for details.
Spread the cost of your treatment — 0% Finance options available

Patient Reviews

Excel Clinic’s wider group has received hundreds of verified reviews, reflecting consistent standards of care, communication, and patient experience.

★★★★★

"I had a large lipoma removed from my back that the GP said wouldn't be done through the hospital. Excel Clinic saw me within a week and removed it the same day as my assessment. The scar is minimal and I wish I'd done it sooner."

— Tom B.
★★★★★

"The surgery And doctors Were Amazing throughout , I had a boil removed , the atmosphere is calming and relaxing and doctors made the procedure painless and smooth , cannot recommend this clinic enough"

— Moe C.
★★★★★

"Clinic is well presented, clean and tidy. Costing is transparent and communication is good. Having a clinical background myself, I can write with confidence that my procedure was performed effectively and felt that my comfort and safety was given the utmost importance. I would certainly consider using this team again."

— Mark S.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Cysts

A sebaceous cyst — more accurately called an epidermoid cyst — is a benign, non-cancerous lump that develops beneath the skin when skin cells become trapped and form a sac. They are completely harmless but can cause pain, embarrassment, or recurrent infection. Surgical removal is the only permanent treatment.

The terms are used interchangeably. Technically, true sebaceous cysts arise from sebaceous glands while epidermoid cysts form from trapped skin cells. In practice most cysts called sebaceous cysts are epidermoid cysts. Both are benign and treated in the same way — surgical excision under local anaesthetic.

A pilar cyst is a type of skin cyst that most commonly occurs on the scalp. They are firm, smooth, and slow-growing — often multiple. Pilar cysts are benign and treated by surgical excision in the same way as epidermoid cysts.

If a cyst is actively infected it may need to be treated with antibiotics first before surgical removal is safe. Operating on an infected cyst increases complication risk and makes complete capsule removal more difficult. Once the infection has settled, removal can be planned. This will be assessed at your consultation.

The Procedure

Sebaceous cyst removal typically takes 20–40 minutes under local anaesthetic depending on the size and location. Your total time at Excel Clinic from arrival to discharge is usually under 60 minutes — no overnight stay required.

No. Sebaceous cyst removal at Excel Clinic Dublin is performed entirely under local anaesthetic. You remain awake and comfortable throughout, can eat and drink normally beforehand, and go home the same day.

Sebaceous cyst removal is not painful. Local anaesthetic fully numbs the area before surgery begins. You may feel a brief sting from the injection but the removal itself is comfortable. Post-operative discomfort is mild and manageable with standard over-the-counter pain relief.

Sebaceous cyst recurrence after surgical removal is unlikely if the entire capsule is removed. Draining a cyst leaves the capsule in place and almost always results in it returning. At Excel Clinic, complete excision of the cyst and capsule is our standard approach.

Yes. We regularly remove sebaceous cysts from the face, scalp, neck, back, arms, and legs. Particular care is taken with incision placement in cosmetically sensitive areas to minimise visible scarring.

Access and Waiting Times

Sebaceous cysts are rarely treated on the HSE as they are considered benign and non-urgent. Where treatment is available, waiting times range from 12 to 24 months. At Excel Clinic Dublin, treatment is available within days to weeks of your initial photo submission.

No referral is needed. You can self-refer by submitting photos of your cyst online via our booking form. Our team will review them and confirm suitability and pricing before your appointment.

Yes, in most cases. Submitting photos in advance allows suitability to be confirmed before your visit. Consultation and removal are typically completed in a single appointment.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients recover within 2–4 weeks. Days 1–3: keep the dressing dry. Week 2: sutures absorbed or removed and return to normal activities. Months 2–6: scar softens and fades. Most patients return to desk work the same day or the day after surgery.

All surgical procedures leave some mark, but our surgeon uses precise technique and careful incision placement to keep scars as small and discreet as possible. Scars typically fade significantly over 3–6 months and are often barely noticeable once fully healed.

Cysts dont usually need histology unless there is doubt about the diagnosis. You will be informed if this is the case. A histology fee applies where testing is required and is confirmed with you.

Pricing

Minor surgery pricing at Excel Clinic Dublin is confirmed after assessment and depends on the type, size, and location of the lesion. All fees are all-inclusive covering consultation, procedure, aftercare, and follow-up. There are no hidden costs. Submit photos for a free assessment and we will provide a quote before your appointment.

Yes. Interest-free finance options are available subject to eligibility. Enquire at the time of booking for details.

 
 
 
 
 

Want personalised advice? Submit your photo and our minor surgery team will provide you with a quote.

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How to find us

Our clinic is easy to access from Dublin and other parts of Ireland.

Free parking is available on site

By Car Easily accessible from Dublin city centre (20–25 mins), Swords (10–15 mins), Malahide (5 mins), Drogheda via M1 (45 mins), Navan (50 mins), Belfast via M1 (90 mins), and Cork via M8/M50 (2.5–3 hours). For patients travelling from outside Dublin, our one-stop service means assessment and surgery in a single visit — and virtual follow-up when suitable, means no second long journey.

By DART Portmarnock has its own DART station — approximately 25 minutes from Dublin Connolly. The station is a 3-minute taxi ride from our clinic (not walkable post-surgery). Belfast patients can take the Enterprise to Connolly then the DART directly. Pre-book your taxi from the station in advance — our team can help on the day.

By Taxi FreeNow and Lynk both serve Portmarnock. Please arrange your return taxi before your procedure.

From Dublin Airport Approximately 15 minutes by car or taxi (€16–€35).

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