Scalp Cyst – Pilar Cyst

Serving Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and surrounding areas

Pilar Cysts:

  • Are a sac filled with dead skin cells and can develop anywhere on the scalp, back of the neck and around the edges of the face
  • Usually look like a round “lump” under the skin
  • May range in diameter from the size of a pea to a tennis ball
  • May get gradually larger with time and do not disappear spontaneously
  • Are not due to diet
  • Are not collections of fat tissue
  • Are not due to an “ingrown hair”
  • Are often genetic with other people in the family affected with scalp cysts
  • Are often multiple with several lesions developing over the course of a lifetime
  • If you are not certain whether a cyst is normal or not you should show it to your doctor
  • The skin around the pilar cyst is injected with a local anesthetic to numb the area
  • It is not necessary to shave the scalp during the procedure
  • The cyst is opened and then the contents and the wall of the cyst are removed
  • Stitches are used to close the opening
  • Antibiotic cream is used to cover the wound
  • The day after and surgery apply a small amount of antibiotic cream to the wound daily until the stitches are removed
  • If you notice redness, pain, swelling or a discharge from your wound, let the doctor know immediately
  • The stitches are removed in 7 to 10 days
  • The removal of stitches is painless
  • You may bathe, shower and do your normal activities
  • There is a small chance that the cyst could grow back
  • Removal of the cyst may leave a small mark but usually does not produce a circular “bald spot”
  • There is no cream at this time that will remove cysts
  • There is no way to prevent a cyst from developing
  • Removal of benign (non-cancerous) cysts is not covered by OHIP or private health insurance
  • A referral from a doctor is necessary to make your first appointment

Pilar Cyst – Face

Pilar (Scalp) Cyst – Easily Removed in the Office

Pilar Cyst

What if you are interested to learn more?

If you would like to learn more please phone the aesthetic centre directly at (905) 549-7873 to book a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable technicians or

E-Mail Us