When you have fluid trapped in the skin, it can create a painful and unattractive lump. Whether it is an infection like an abscess or boil, or just a fluid-filled cyst, it is never recommended to try and resolve these skin conditions on your own. One of the best treatments for abscesses, boils and cysts are incision and drainage, or I&D, which we offer at MJR Dermatology in Lawrenceville, GA.
Whenever you have fluid or pus trapped under the skin, it often will not go away on its own. Both abscesses and boils are skin conditions where bacteria become trapped under the skin, multiplying and creating a pus-filled sack. Skin abscesses commonly occur in certain areas, often in hair follicles or near oil glands. Armpits, under the breasts and the groin areas are typical places where an abscess can occur, but anywhere bacteria enter the skin can result in an abscess.
Cysts are another under-the-skin growth that can require incision and drainage to resolve. Larger epidermoid or other types of skin cysts may require a dermatologist to drain the fluid and clean the wound once the cyst is removed.
Skin Abscess, Boil and Cyst Removal
If incision and drainage (I&D) are recommended for removal of a boil, cyst or abscess, the procedure can be performed at our medical center in the North Atlanta, GA, area. Dr. Matthew Reschly is a highly skilled and experienced, board certified dermatologist that performs I&D procedures to remove cysts, abscesses and boils. The treatment can be completed in less than an hour – the skin is numbed with a local anesthesia and an incision is made to release the pus or fluid. Once the abscess or other condition is completely drained, it is cleaned and sterilized before it is packed with gauze to allow healing.
In some cases, a large boil or abscess may require a surgical drain inserted to allow fluid to be released over the following days.
Incision and drainage procedures are an effective treatment for abscesses, cysts and boils. If you need an I&D performed near Duluth, Gwinnett or North Atlanta, GA, call us at MJR Dermatology to schedule an appointment at our Lawrenceville, GA, clinic.