✦ Cyst Aspiration

Cyst Aspiration

Q: Will the cyst come back?

Sometimes — recurrence rates vary by cyst type. Breast cysts often resolve permanently after aspiration. Ganglion cysts have high recurrence rates (50–60%). Repeat aspiration or definitive excision may be needed for recurrent cysts.

Q: Is aspiration painful?

Minimal — the needle is fine, and local anaesthetic numbs the skin. There is brief discomfort during insertion but the relief afterwards is usually dramatic.

Q: Can all cysts be aspirated?

No — solid cysts (sebaceous, dermoid) cannot be aspirated. Aspiration suits fluid-filled cysts only. Solid or mixed cysts need surgical excision for definitive treatment.

Q: When is excision recommended over aspiration?

For recurrent cysts after multiple aspirations, suspicious or complex cysts on imaging, solid components, or patient preference for definitive treatment. Excision provides histology and prevents recurrence.

Fluid is drained from a cyst through a fine needle — quick, scarless, and ideal for tense painful cysts where surgery is not yet needed.

5–15 min PROCEDURE

Outpatient HOSPITAL STAY

70–85% INITIAL SUCCESS

Same Day RECOVERY

What is Cyst Aspiration?

Cyst aspiration is a minimally invasive procedure in which fluid is drained from a cyst using a fine needle and syringe under local anaesthesia and sometimes ultrasound guidance. It provides immediate symptomatic relief for tense, painful, or cosmetically concerning cysts — particularly breast cysts, ganglion cysts, and Baker's cysts. Aspirated fluid can be sent for cytology when the cyst is suspicious. Dr. Abhishek performs cyst aspiration at Lux Hospitals as a quick outpatient procedure — though recurrence rates can be high, especially for ganglion cysts.

How the Procedure Works

Skin Preparation

Skin is cleaned with antiseptic; local anaesthetic is applied or injected for comfort.

Imaging Guidance

For deep or breast cysts, ultrasound guides accurate needle placement; superficial cysts use direct palpation.

Needle Insertion

A fine needle is inserted into the cyst cavity, often through normal skin to avoid puncture site issues.

Fluid Aspiration

Cyst fluid is aspirated; the cyst typically collapses with relief of pressure and pain.

Cytology if Indicated

Aspirated fluid is sent for cytology if there is any clinical suspicion of malignancy.

Outcomes

5–15 minDURATION

OutpatientHOSPITAL STAY

70–85%INITIAL SUCCESS

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Quick — usually under 15 minutes
→No incision, no sutures, no scar
→Immediate relief of pain and pressure
→Allows cytology of fluid for diagnosis
→Outpatient procedure with same-day return to activity
→Avoids surgery in many simple breast cysts

Aspiration is the gentlest option for the right cyst — instant relief, no scar, and often a useful diagnostic step. We're upfront with patients about recurrence rates, especially for ganglion cysts, so expectations are realistic.

— Dr. Abhishek Katha, Consultant General & Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the cyst come back?+

Is aspiration painful?+

Can all cysts be aspirated?+

When is excision recommended over aspiration?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Abhishek Katha and get a personalised treatment plan.

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