A skin cyst is a closed sac under the skin, often filled with fluid, pus, or other material. Cysts can develop anywhere on the body and vary in size. Common types include epidermoid cysts, which are slow-growing and typically harmless. However, when they become infected, painful, or unsightly, removal may be necessary.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
If a cyst is causing discomfort or has become infected, surgical removal is the most effective treatment. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, where the cyst and its capsule are completely excised to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Moles (or naevi) are common skin growths that appear when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) cluster together. Most moles are harmless, but some may become problematic if they change in size, shape, or colour, as they can indicate skin cancer, such as melanoma.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
If a mole is suspected to be malignant, it should be removed and sent for biopsy to determine if it is cancerous. In most cases, mole removal is a simple procedure performed under local anaesthesia. The mole is excised, and the wound is closed with sutures. Early detection and removal can prevent complications, such as the spread of melanoma.
In Australia, skin cancer is the most common cancer, with one in two Australians diagnosed with some form of skin cancer by the age of 70.
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of fatty tissue just beneath the skin. While lipomas are generally harmless and slow-growing, they can sometimes become painful or unsightly, prompting the need for removal.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Lipomas are typically removed through surgical excision. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, and the lipoma is excised along with the surrounding tissue to prevent recurrence.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common condition often affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or injury to the toe.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Initial treatment includes soaking the foot and wearing comfortable shoes to alleviate pressure. If the ingrown toenail is severe or infected, surgery may be required. The procedure involves removing part or all of the toenail under local anaesthesia, allowing the nail to grow back properly.
Warts are small, rough growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly appear on the hands, feet, and face and can be contagious. While warts are usually harmless, they can be bothersome or unsightly, prompting individuals to seek treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Treatment for warts includes topical treatments such as salicylic acid or cryotherapy (freezing). If these methods are ineffective, surgical removal may be necessary. This can be performed via excision or laser therapy, depending on the location and size of the wart.
Skin tags are small, benign growths of skin that typically appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. They are generally harmless but can become irritated or cause cosmetic concerns.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Skin tags can be removed easily using a variety of methods:
At Sydney Surgical Associates, we offer advanced diagnostic techniques and a range of surgical options for the treatment and removal of skin conditions. Our experienced surgeons are committed to providing high-quality care, ensuring the best possible outcomes with minimal discomfort and recovery time.
