Seeking Alternatives for Epidermoid Cyst Removal
At 26 years old and standing 5'6", I find myself dealing with a situation that seems increasingly frustrating. I am dealing with epidermoid cysts, and unfortunately, I've developed one that necessitates removal. There is no family history of these cysts, nor do I have any known genetic conditions that could be contributing to their formation. Interestingly, I am the only member of my family who experiences this issue. Additionally, I have a case of seborrheic dermatitis affecting my scalp, but I'm not sure if it relates to the cysts. Over the years, I’ve had three epidermoid cysts surgically excised. One was calcified, another turned into an emergency situation due to a severe infection, and the third was removed purely for cosmetic reasons. All of these cysts were sent for biopsy and fortunately returned benign results. Currently, I have a total of nine epidermoid cysts, in addition to one pilonidal cyst. There's another cyst in the vulvar area that I'm unsure about, and I have one located on my chin whose type is also unknown. One of the cysts is specifically located on my forehead, which is particularly concerning to me. I had anticipated a long wait when I contacted the dermatologist, but I was taken aback to learn that the next available appointment is in late February of 2026. This timeline feels excessively long given my circumstances. Is there an alternative pathway for me to pursue to have this cyst removed sooner? In the past, I had a surgeon perform the emergency removal of one of my cysts, but I’m unclear if this option is feasible for routine cases like mine. With my wedding approaching next July, it's important to me to allow adequate time for the scar to heal and improve in appearance before the big day. Thank you for your guidance on this matter.
Answers (1)
8/7/2025, 6:10:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are feeling overwhelmed with your current situation concerning the epidermoid cysts, especially with your upcoming wedding and the long wait for a dermatologist appointment. Let’s address your concerns step-by-step.
Main Points
You have multiple cysts that need attention, and the long wait for a dermatologist is understandably stressful, especially with your wedding coming up. Exploring alternative options for cyst removal can help expedite the process.
Explanation
Epidermoid cysts are generally benign growths that can vary in size and may require surgical removal if they become bothersome or infected. Given your history and the presence of multiple cysts, it's understandable that you want a timely solution. The scalp condition (seborrheic dermatitis) isn’t typically related to cyst formation but should be managed to keep your skin healthy overall.
Next Steps
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Contact Your Previous Surgeon: Since you have had surgical excisions previously, reach out to the surgeon who performed the emergency procedure. Explain your current situation and the number of cysts you would like to have removed. They may have availability sooner or could provide alternative options.
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Seek a Second Opinion: If the wait for your dermatologist is too long, consider consulting another dermatologist or healthcare provider to assess your cysts. Sometimes different clinics may have varying wait times.
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Explore Urgent Care or Minor Surgery Facilities: Certain urgent care clinics or specialized skin clinics may offer treatment for skin cysts and could provide quicker access to removal services. Check if there are accredited facilities in your area.
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Monitor Your Cysts: While you're working on getting an appointment, keep an eye on the cysts. If you notice any changes (like redness, swelling, or pain), this could necessitate more immediate intervention, which could potentially shift your care options.
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Plan for Healing: Once you have a plan for removal, discuss with your provider the best care practices post-surgery to minimize scarring and promote healing. This would be important to ensure you're looking your best for your wedding.
It's completely reasonable to feel anxious about this situation, especially with your significant event approaching. By reaching out to other medical professionals and exploring different pathways for removal, you can work towards finding a timely solution. Please keep me updated on your progress or let me know if you have any other questions!
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