Cyst Removal in Cardiff

Sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts removal under local anaesthetic

Google 4.9 star rating for Excel Clinic Cardiff - private surgery and dermatology
Award badge stating 'Excellence Award in Skin Surgery and Dermatology 2-25 - Wales'
Award badge stating 'Best Private Medical Clinic in Wales'

Cyst Removal - At A Glance

Duration

20-30 minutes

Anaesthesia

Local Anaesthetic

Return to Work

Same or next day (office)

Full recovery

2-4 weeks

Cyst Removal in Cardiff

Skin cysts, including sebaceous and pilar cysts, are common benign lumps that can become uncomfortable, infected, or cosmetically bothersome over time. At Excel Clinic, we provide expert cyst removal in Cardiff, offering fast access to treatment under local anaesthetic with a strong focus on minimal scarring and safe outcomes.

As a highly rated private minor surgery clinic, we treat patients from Cardiff and across South Wales, providing a convenient, one-stop service with clear, transparent pricing. In most cases, assessment and cyst removal can be completed within a single visit, without long NHS waiting times.

Types of cysts we treat

At Excel Clinic, we remove the most common skin cysts safely and effectively under local anaesthetic. These include:

Sebaceous cysts

One of the most common types of skin cysts, sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts form beneath the skin and may gradually increase in size or become inflamed or infected over time.

Epidermoid cysts

Often used interchangeably with sebaceous cysts, epidermoid cysts arise from trapped skin cells and typically contain a thick, keratinous material.

Pilar cysts

Pilar cysts most commonly occur on the scalp and are usually firm, slow-growing lumps. They are benign but may be removed for comfort or cosmetic reasons.

Hand and wrist cysts

Cysts affecting the hand or wrist may represent a ganglion cyst, which can be connected to a joint or tendon sheath. Where appropriate, these cases are assessed and managed through our orthopaedic hand surgery service to ensure the safest and most effective treatment.

What is a Sebaceous Cyst?

A sebaceous cyst (also known as an epidermoid cyst) is a non-cancerous lump that forms beneath the skin, usually due to trapped skin cells rather than an active sebaceous gland. Pilar cysts commonly occur on the scalp and behave in a similar way.

While harmless, cysts are often removed because they can cause:

  • Pain or tenderness, particularly if inflamed or infected

  • Redness or swelling that may worsen over time

  • Cosmetic concerns, especially on visible areas

  • Discomfort from friction with clothing

Sebaceous and pilar cyst removal is usually completed in under an hour, performed under local anaesthetic, with a short recovery period.

sebaceous cyst diagram

What happens during cyst removal?

Cyst removal is a straightforward procedure performed under local anaesthetic. The area is numbed so you remain comfortable throughout.

Once numb, a small incision is made and the cyst is carefully removed in full, including the capsule, to reduce the risk of recurrence. The wound is then closed with fine stitches where required.

The procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes, and you can return home shortly afterwards with clear aftercare instructions.

diagram of sebaceous cyst removal stages

Why choose private cyst removal?

Surgical removal of sebaceous or pilar cysts is rarely funded by the NHS, as these lesions are often classed as cosmetic. Many patients therefore choose private treatment to avoid long waiting times and recurrent infection.

At Excel Clinic, we offer fast access, experienced surgical care, and a clear pathway from assessment to treatment.

Why Choose Excel Clinic for cyst removal?

Experienced Consultant-led care

Cyst removal performed by a highly experienced surgeon, with careful technique to minimise recurrence and scarring.

Local anaesthetic, walk-in / walk-out

Many larger lipomas are managed in hospital under general anaesthetic. Where clinically appropriate, we offer surgical removal under local anaesthetic, allowing safe treatment without hospital admission.

One-stop assessment and treatment

In many cases, consultation and cyst removal are completed in a single visit.

Dedicated Aftercare Support

Clear aftercare guidance and follow-up are provided to support healing and minimise complications.

Consultant-led cyst removal

Cyst removal at Excel Clinic is performed by an experienced surgeon as part of our consultant-led minor surgery service. Each procedure is carried out with careful technique to fully remove the cyst capsule, helping to reduce recurrence and achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.

One-stop cyst removal service

We offer a streamlined one-stop cyst removal service in Cardiff, designed to minimise delays and unnecessary appointments.

1. Online enquiry & photo upload

Complete our booking form and upload a photo of the cyst for surgical review.

2. Consultation & removal

Your surgeon will examine the cyst and, in most cases, proceed directly to removal during the same appointment.

3. Aftercare & follow-up

Clear aftercare guidance and follow-up are provided to support healing and reassurance.

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.

lady smiling after cyst removal at excel clinic

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

Pricing

Our affordable packages include Consultation, Surgery, Aftercare and Follow-up!

Cyst removal (<3cm)

Sebaceous cysts, Epidermoid Cyst on Body (exc. Genital region)

ÂŁ750

Cyst Removal (<3cm)

Sebaceous cysts, Epidermoid Cyst - Face, Pilar cyst/Scalp, Genital area

From ÂŁ800

Cyst Removal (3-5cm)

From ÂŁ950

Cyst Removal (>5cm)

Contact us

Consultation only

Consultation without surgery during appointment

ÂŁ100

Patient Reviews

Had cyst removal by Dr Wani and Dr Shroff. Very friendly and professional consultation and pain free removal. Modern environment and convenient location. Great post procedure information. Highly recommended
andrew
Newport
Rated 5 out of 5
I had a sebaceous cyst removed that I’d been worried about for a long time. The procedure was straightforward, and the scar is barely noticeable. Highly professional clinic.
Jane
Caerphilly
Rated 5 out of 5
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
Swansea
Rated 5 out of 5

Frequently Asked Questions

Cyst removal is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel a brief sting from the numbing injection, but the removal itself is usually comfortable.

Most cyst removals take 20–40 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cyst. You can return home shortly afterwards.

If the cyst is removed fully, including the capsule, recurrence is unlikely. This is why surgical excision is recommended rather than simple drainage.

Any surgical procedure leaves a small scar, but we aim to keep scars as small and discreet as possible. Scars typically fade over time and are often barely noticeable once healed.

No. You can book directly with Excel Clinic without a GP referral.

If a cyst is actively infected, it may need to be treated first before safe removal. This will be assessed during your consultation.

Yes. We commonly remove cysts from the face, scalp, neck, back, arms and legs, using careful technique to minimise scarring, especially in visible areas.

Cysts on the hand or wrist may be ganglion cysts, which can involve a joint or tendon sheath. These are assessed through our orthopaedic hand surgery service where appropriate.

Most patients return to work the same day or the following day, depending on comfort and the nature of their job.

Pricing depends on the size, location, and complexity of the cyst. Our pricing is clear and all-inclusive, covering consultation, procedure, aftercare and follow-up. Full details are shown in the pricing section above.

Our clinic is based in Cardiff, and we regularly treat patients from Swansea, Bridgend, Newport, and across South Wales, as well as Bristol and the South West.

Want personalised advice? Book your Cyst Removal Appointment today.

Contact us

Book An Appointment

Please complete and submit your booking form below. You will be required to upload photo(s) of the lesion.  Once submitted, a member of the Excel team will shortly be in touch to take care of the rest!

Please note: Hand or wrist cysts may be ganglion cysts and are assessed via our orthopaedic service where appropriate.