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Permanent Hole After Cyst Removal

7/9/2025, 3:01:05 AMMale25-34

I'm a 33-year-old male, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds. I have never smoked, nor do I use any drugs or alcohol, and I'm not on any medication. As described in the title, I’ve had a small cyst, roughly the size of a pea, located in the center of my lower back for as long as I can remember. At one point, my wife decided to try to extract it. After we applied some pressure, it became infected and painful for a few days. Once the swelling subsided, I was under the impression that the cyst was completely eliminated. It seems we may have ruptured it beneath the skin since there’s no longer any noticeable cyst. However, I’m left with a permanent indentation, which has raised concerns for me. Although the hole itself isn't causing any problems, my online searches about it have been unsettling, as I’ve encountered alarming information. Currently, I’m awaiting a referral to see a dermatologist. I wonder if there is anything they can do regarding this hole. What can I anticipate during the visit? Is surgical intervention necessary to address it? Can this issue be resolved?

WellnessFamily MedicineInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

7/9/2025, 3:01:37 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's natural to feel concerned about changes to your skin, especially after an incident like this. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know about the indentation left after cyst removal.

What You Should Know

The indentation on your lower back may be the result of cyst removal or rupture. It can also be caused by tissue damage or scarring from inflammation. While it might not cause direct issues, it’s understandable to want to explore options for improvement in appearance or texture.

Anticipated Visit to the Dermatologist

During your visit, here’s what you can expect:

  1. Assessment: The dermatologist will examine the area and ask about your medical history and the events leading up to the current state of your skin.
  2. Diagnosis: They will determine whether the indentation is a scar or if there are other factors at play.
  3. Options: Depending on the assessment, they may suggest treatments such as:
    • Topical treatments: Creams or gels to improve skin appearance.
    • Injectables: Fillers that can help raise the indentation.
    • Surgical options: If significant skin alteration is needed, procedures like scar revision might be discussed.

Next Steps for You

While you wait for your appointment, consider the following actionable steps:

  1. Avoid irritating the area: Prevent any further injury by keeping the area clean and protected from the sun.
  2. Monitor changes: Keep an eye on any changes in the size or color of the indentation, noting anything unusual to discuss with your dermatologist.
  3. Self-care: Maintain good hydration, ensure a balanced diet, and consider over-the-counter creams formulated for scar treatment, but only after discussing it with your dermatologist.

Finally, it's important to remember that many skin concerns can be treated effectively, and your dermatologist will help guide you through the options available. If you have further questions or need reassurance, don't hesitate to seek out supportive resources or discuss your concerns with trusted friends or family.

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