Small cysts do not usually need treatment, but can be readily removed by a minor surgical procedure. Cysts can remain untreated for years. Larger cysts are usually removed if they become inflamed or infected.
Cysts are treated by making a small surgical opening into the skin and removing their contents and the sac. This procedure is called an excision. This is done under local anesthetic and may require stitches, which are removed a few days later. Occasionally cysts recur and need further treatment.