Say goodbye to bothersome cysts and unwanted scars. Our board-certified dermatologists deliver precise treatment with beautiful, natural-looking results
Cysts can be found nearly anywhere in the body and the most common type of cyst that you can experience are sebaceous and epidermoid cysts. They typically appear as small round bumps that may sometimes have small openings that appear like clogged pores.
These bumps can be found on the face, neck and even on your bikini line.
Even though these are normal types of cysts, there are also some that may have abnormal symptoms like those that form deep within your tissues. This kind of cyst is usually formed when a part of your body or any organ gets trapped in another part which results in the growth of a bubble which is known as an encapsulated cyst.
Acne Cysts
Acne Cysts usually develop deep underneath your skin and usually result from clogged hair follicles or oil glands. The severe form can be identified by several red bumps that have swollen tissues surrounding it.
These types of acne cysts are often difficult to treat especially when it has reached an advanced stage.
Pilar Cysts
Pilar Cyst is a cyst that forms on the hair follicle and most likely to appear around the head area.
This type of cyst can affect people from all ages and when they form, it will result in a very small, firm bump under your skin. It’s possible for you to notice these bumps because they usually appear in a group which are known as poliosis.
The reason why this kind of cyst can form is still unknown and it does not have any symptoms that can be associated with it.
Cysts are usually harmless, but sometimes it is possible for them to become infected or inflamed.
Surgical excision is the most common tool for cyst removal, and it involves a small incision being made at the site of the cyst and the cyst itself along with nearby tissue being removed surgically to ensure complete excision. This is usually done under local anesthesia. The surgery is known as a cystectomy. If the patient has multiple cysts or they are very large, this can result in scarring of the skin and cosmetic issues that could be improved if these were removed.
Cosmetic plastic surgery techniques such as abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck), can remove the scars from this surgery.
We safely remove your cyst under local anesthesia using precise surgical techniques. The entire cyst and capsule are removed to prevent recurrence, with careful attention to minimizing scarring.
If needed, we offer laser scar removal to improve the appearance of any surgical scars. Our advanced laser technology stimulates collagen production, smoothing texture and fading discoloration for optimal cosmetic results.
Laser scar removal uses flashes of light absorbed by red hemoglobin pigment in blood cells and tissues like bones, muscles, and connective tissue. The heat generated destroys superficial skin layers through photothermolysis, stimulating new collagen growth as the skin heals. This heat also makes pre-cancerous cells within cysts more responsive to other treatments like surgery or medication.
Laser Scar Removal Side Effects
Common side effects include redness, swelling, and blistering of treated skin. Some patients experience a burning sensation during treatment that may cause faintness or nausea. Permanent lightening of surrounding skin can occur, which means patients with tanned or dark skin may need multiple treatments to achieve desired results.
Smoking before and after treatment reduces blood flow, weakening treatment effectiveness. Protective clothing is important during treatment to prevent damage to skin around the scar.
Treatment Guidelines
Multiple treatment sessions achieve the best results. The exact number needed—typically 3-6 sessions—depends on scar type, severity, size, and location. Treatments should not be performed too close together to minimize risk of side effects and skin damage.
Advanced Laser Technologies
Fractional lasers are increasingly popular for scar removal because they treat smaller, more precise areas than traditional methods. They work effectively on scars that haven't fully healed and can remove tattoos or permanent marks. These lasers are particularly effective on darker pigmentation like sun spots and stretch marks, helping skin produce more collagen to make scars less noticeable over time.
Recovery Time
Recovery from fractional laser scar removal typically takes 2-3 weeks, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two. Common side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and small white spots that develop as the area heals. These effects generally resolve within 2-3 weeks. Patients should protect treated skin with sunscreen or aloe vera lotions if sunburn-like appearance develops.
Treatment Considerations
Laser scar removal is highly effective for most scar types, but darker pigmentation like freckles or moles can interfere with the laser's effectiveness. Treatment is not recommended for patients with sun-damaged skin, as it may cause further damage and reduce results. Lasers are also not ideal for raised scars that haven't healed properly.
We'll start by getting to know you and understanding your concerns. Our dermatologist will examine your skin and take time to answer all your questions in a relaxed, friendly setting.
We'll walk you through treatment options that make sense for you and your lifestyle. You'll leave feeling informed and confident about the path forward.
From your treatment to recovery, we'll provide clear guidance and support. We'll check in with you along the way to make sure you're happy with your results.
"Dr. Alvarez is a conscientious and compassionate physician. My family and I have been seeing him for 8+ years and I’ve referred him to family and friends alike.
Everyone is always pleased with the referral and the care they receive."
- V.R.
"Dr. Alvarez is incredible - by far my favorite doctor. He has helped me with a multitude of issues - advocating to my insurance for necessary care and offering me options for everything.
He and his team are dedicated to giving excellent, welcoming, quality care - and they have great views from their office."
- B.G
"Dr. Karp is truly amazing! When I walked in, I felt welcomed and at ease. She's knowledgeable and explained everything clearly. I felt comfortable and confident in her care.
I actually came to see her when my regular dermatologist couldn't get me in, but honestly, I won't be going back. Her exceptional care and welcoming demeanor have won me over completely. "
- K.P
