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Pilonidal Cystectomy Surgery

Dr Ganesh Ramalingam

Specialist in General Surgery

Procedure

Pilonidal Cystectomy Treatment In A Nutshell

  • Pilonidal cystectomy is a recommended procedure to treat an infected pilonidal cyst effectively.
  • It is a minor surgery that can be done as an outpatient procedure with local anaesthesia.  
  • Recovery from pilonidal cystectomy may involve some level of pain, but you will be prescribed painkillers to relieve the discomfort. 
  • It takes approximately four weeks to completely heal after pilonidal cyst removal.
  • Downtime: No physical or strenuous activities for 2 weeks. You may be discharged the same day after surgery.

Table of Contents

Pilonidal Cystectomy

What Is A Pilonidal Cystectomy?

Pilonidal cysts are a type of skin tag that can form near the crease between one’s buttocks. These growths contain an impacted or ingrown hair follicle along with debris such as dead cells and dirt, which becomes enclosed in a pocket.

A pilonidal cystectomy is usually recommended by doctors to treat a pilonidal cyst effectively and aids in clearing out any form of infection. 

Pilonidal cyst removal is a minor surgery that can be done as an outpatient procedure with local anaesthesia. This will aid in numbing the area and managing the pain during the removal of the infected pilonidal abscess. The procedure is usually conducted in the doctor’s clinic, and you will be able to resume normal activities right after the surgery.

When Should I See A Doctor For A Pilonidal Cyst?

You are recommended to seek medical advice if you notice swelling near the cleft of the buttocks that do not reduce after 2-3 days. 

In most cases, when a pilonidal cyst becomes infected, you will experience significant pain and will require relief, so you are advised to visit the doctor if:

  • You notice the swelling is starting to redden
  • You experience increasing pain due to the swelling
  • Pus begins to ooze from the swelling
  • You experience a fever

Infected Pilonidal Cyst can be a significant cause for concern as it can lead to pilonidal abscesses (or boils) that can develop further into sinus cavities, leaving holes on your skin where the abscess occurred. 

Can I Get Rid Of A Pilonidal Cyst Without Surgery?

When treated early, doctors may prescribe antibiotics as the first manner of treatment for your pilonidal cyst. This will not immediately treat the cyst as it will still be present beneath the skin (hair follicles & debris). However, it can help to prevent the cyst from becoming infected. 

You will be required to schedule regular follow-ups with our doctor to ensure that the cyst shows no signs of infection. Should an infection be detected, you will be advised to opt for surgery to remove the cyst entirely. 

What Happens If A Pilonidal Cyst Goes Untreated?

An untreated pilonidal cyst can lead to infection and subsequent recurring boils around the crease of the buttocks. This not only causes severe pain, but can result in pilonidal sinus disease where one or more infected pilonidal cysts will form. The sinus is a cavity below the skin that connects to the surface through your pores. The infection spreads from the cyst into the sinus tract and, over time, can lead to recurring infections that become increasingly severe and painful.

Surgery will usually be recommended to remove all traces of infection from the region.

Is Pilonidal Cyst Surgery Painful?

A pilonidal cystectomy is usually not painful. Local anaesthesia will be applied to the surgical site to numb the region before the procedure begins. While you may feel the scalpel used to remove the cyst, you should not feel any pain. 

Recovery from the surgery may involve some level of pain, but you will be prescribed painkillers to aid in relieving the discomfort. 

Additionally, it is important to take note that you will need to follow the instructions provided by our doctor following the surgery to ensure that the wound is managed correctly to ensure a full recovery.

What To Expect From Pilonidal Cyst Surgery?

  • Fast as instructed by your doctor (situational).
  • You will be placed under local anaesthesia to numb your skin.
  • Our surgeon will make a cut in the skin to remove the cyst and any surrounded region that is infected.
  • The resulting scar might leave a small hole that will recover over the course of a month.
  • Six to seven stitches will be in place.
  • A bandage is used to cover the wound.
  • The operation is usually completed within 30 minutes.
  • You may be able to go home on the day of the procedure.
  • Pain is minimal and can be controlled with painkillers.
  • Change your dressing daily.
  • You may shower with or without your dressing.
  • Eat a diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and other light foods.
  • Avoid spicy food.
  • Cut out alcohol.
  • Schedule a follow-up appointment with our doctor within 1 to 2 weeks.

What Happens During A Pilonidal Cystectomy?

A pilonidal cyst surgery is usually conducted in the doctor’s clinic. Our doctor will inform you if you are required to fast before the procedure. 

Local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the surgical site. Our doctor will use a scalpel to make an excision to remove the cyst, sinus, skin, and underlying tissue that has become infected. 

Pus and any signs of infection will be removed entirely, and the region will be cleaned and sterilised with saline. 

Depending on the size of the area that is saucerised, the wound may be kept open to observe for infection. In most cases, the wound will be packed with gauze to ensure that the area remains as dry and sterile as possible. 

The surgical site will then be closed up with stitches, and you can be discharged right after the surgery has been completed. 

In the next four weeks, you will be required to adhere to the management of your wound to ensure a full recovery. Recovery from a pilonidal cyst surgery takes approximately four weeks.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Pilonidal Cystectomy?

If you had your wound closed with stitches, complete recovery should take four weeks, while open wounds may require months to heal completely.

You will likely need several follow-up appointments, but it is advised to avoid strenuous exercise and activity until the area has healed. With proper rest, most people can return to their regular activities within two weeks. 

However, you should wait longer if possible to avoid straining yourself or further irritation, which could cause scarring/healing issues later down the road. 

Can A Pilonidal Cyst Come Back After Removal?

It is common for pilonidal cysts to return even after surgery. Several factors can influence this recurrence, such as:

  • Improper care during the healing process
  • Genetic factors
  • Lifestyle/work habits

Pilonidal sinus disease is a chronic, recurring condition that can be difficult to resolve. In a study conducted on pilonidal sinus and its recurrence, about 20% of people who have had a pilonidal cyst removed required another procedure as the cyst recurred. 

It is important to note that patients who have a history of pilonidal cysts should keep the area between the buttock crease clean and hair-free. You may be advised to consider permanent hair removal or shaving every two to three weeks to prevent hair buildup in the area.

Apart from that, people who hold jobs that require long hours of sitting have an increased risk of recurrence. Consider taking a walk every other hour and stay active throughout the day instead of spending the entire period at your desk or vehicle.

How Much Does It Cost To Treat A Pilonidal Cyst In Singapore?

The professional fees for a pilonidal cystectomy ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. Do note that the charges listed here refer to the doctor’s fees. This is before you take into account any hospitalisation fees along with your eligibility for insurance claimables. To obtain an estimated fee for Pilonidal Cyst removal, visit MOH’s Historical Transacted Bill Sizes and Fee Benchmarks.

To understand your financing options and out-of-pocket costs, speak to your insurer, or you may contact our friendly staff via WHATSAPP or call our CLINIC for assistance.

Is Pilonidal Cyst Surgery Insurance Claimable?

A pilonidal cyst surgery is insurance claimable, although the amount may vary depending on your insurer. 

The Integrated Shield Plan allows Singaporeans to obtain additional coverage on top of what is offered by Medishield Life for private healthcare. If you have purchased a hospital plan rider from your insurer, it typically covers the cost of the deductible along with co-insurance.

In that case, you may be eligible for a cashless procedure during your hospitalisation. If you are unsure of your eligibility for a cashless procedure, contact us or speak to your insurer to find out more.

Can I Use My Medisave For Pilonidal Cyst Removal?

Medisave can be used to pay for your pilonidal cyst removal. With the help of our experienced staff at G&L Surgical Clinic, you will be able to make ease-of-use of your Medisave for your pilonidal sinus treatment. However, prevailing limits may be set on how much can be utilised in such procedures. 

Do not hesitate to approach us if you have concerns about your treatment plans, and we will be glad to assist you with them. 

Why Choose Us For Your Pilonidal Cyst Removal In Singapore?

Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort. Having had adequate experience in performing pilonidal cyst removals for numerous patients for many years in Singapore.

Furthermore, the G & L Surgical Clinic staff have been thoroughly and adequately trained to make your experience a comfortable and hassle-free one. Whether you intend to undergo our pilonidal cystectomy or other medical services in Singapore, you can rest assured that you will be properly and sufficiently cared for by trained professionals.

Organise a consultation with our surgeons for further assistance on pilonidal cyst removals in Singapore.

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