Cyst Removal in Glasgow
Cyst Removal
in Glasgow
Private cyst removal carried out by experienced GPs at a practice with over 20 years of minor surgery expertise. Complete excision for lasting results — with full histological analysis as standard.
Your £50 consultation fee is deducted from the cost of your procedure if you choose to proceed. No hidden fees.
What is a cyst, and when should you have it removed?
A cyst is a closed, fluid-filled sac that develops beneath the skin. The most common types seen in our clinic are epidermoid cysts — which form from keratin-producing skin cells — and pilar cysts, which typically appear on the scalp. Both are entirely benign but can grow, become uncomfortable, or develop infection if left untreated.
Cysts will not resolve on their own. Squeezing or draining a cyst at home provides only temporary relief — the cyst wall remains intact beneath the skin and the cyst will almost always return. Surgical removal of the entire cyst, including its wall, is the only reliable treatment.
Cyst or lipoma? The two are easy to confuse because both present as a lump beneath the skin. Cysts tend to be firmer and rounder, often with a small central pore or blackhead visible on the surface, whereas lipomas are softer, more mobile under the skin, and have no central pore. Your consultation includes a clinical examination so we can confirm exactly which one you have before recommending treatment.
At Waverley Park, every cyst is assessed thoroughly before any procedure is planned. Our GPs will examine the cyst, confirm the diagnosis, and explain your options clearly. Read our complete cyst removal guide →
When to act promptly: if your cyst is growing rapidly, has become red, painful, or hot to the touch, or has started to discharge, seek assessment with your own GP. An infected cyst may require antibiotics before surgical removal can take place. What happens if a cyst gets infected or bursts? →
Common types of cyst we treat
Epidermoid — the most common type, filled with keratin; often found on the face, neck, or trunk.
Pilar — typically found on the scalp, smooth to the touch and often run in families.
Sebaceous — arising from blocked sebaceous glands; common on the back, chest, and face.
How we remove cysts at Waverley Park
Every step is carried out by an experienced GP in our clinical treatment room. You'll be guided clearly through what to expect at each stage.
Consultation & Clinical Assessment
Your first visit is a dedicated consultation — separate from the procedure itself. Your GP will examine the cyst, assess its size, location, and type, and confirm it is suitable for removal. The procedure is fully explained so you can make an informed decision. If removal is appropriate, a date for your procedure is provided at the end of this appointment. Will a doctor remove a cyst on the first visit? → · At what point does a cyst need to be removed? →
Local Anaesthetic & Cyst Removal
On the day of your procedure, a small injection of local anaesthetic numbs the area — most patients feel only a brief sting. Once numb, your GP makes a precise incision and removes the cyst in its entirety, including the cyst wall. This is essential to prevent recurrence. The wound is closed with fine sutures and dressed. The procedure itself is entirely painless.
Histological Analysis
All removed tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for histological analysis. The results are sent directly to your own GP, who will advise on any further steps if required.
Aftercare & Follow-up
You'll leave with clear written aftercare instructions and a follow-up appointment booked to remove sutures — typically 7 to 14 days later, depending on the site. Our team is available to answer any questions during your recovery. How many days does it take to recover from cyst removal? →
Why complete excision matters
Draining a cyst — whether at home or in a clinical setting — only removes the contents. The cyst wall remains beneath the skin and the cyst will almost certainly return. At Waverley Park, we always aim for complete surgical excision, removing the entire cyst sac to give you the best chance of a lasting result. Can you remove a cyst without surgery? → · Do cysts grow back after removal? →
What about scarring?
All cyst removal results in some degree of scarring, but our GPs use fine sutures and careful closure technique to keep this as minimal as possible. The scar is typically a fine line that fades significantly over 6 to 12 months. We discuss realistic expectations for your specific cyst at your consultation.
Is cyst removal right for me?
Cyst removal at Waverley Park may be suitable if you:
- Have a cyst that is growing in size or causing discomfort
- Have a cyst that has become infected or has previously discharged
- Have a cyst that catches on clothing or causes irritation
- Want the cyst removed for cosmetic reasons
- Have been unable to get a timely NHS referral and want prompt private treatment
- Want a medically led procedure in a proper clinical environment
What to expect on the day
Your procedure appointment takes around 30 to 45 minutes in total, including the local anaesthetic, removal, closure, and dressing. No hospital admission is required. Most patients drive themselves home and return to work or normal daily activity the same day. Some mild soreness is normal for a day or two and is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
No referral, no waiting
You do not need a GP referral to book an appointment with us. Simply contact us directly by phone or through our online form. We typically have appointments available within a few days — not weeks or months.
Not sure if it's a cyst?
Some lumps beneath the skin turn out to be lipomas rather than cysts — both feel like a lump under the skin but differ in consistency and texture. If the lump is soft, mobile, and doughy rather than firm and round, a lipoma is more likely. Your consultation will confirm exactly what you have and the correct removal approach.
Important: benign cysts only
We remove benign (non-cancerous) cysts only. We do not treat or remove suspected malignant lesions. If our clinical assessment raises any concern, you will be advised to seek urgent referral through the appropriate NHS or specialist pathway.
No hidden fees.
All costs are confirmed at your consultation. You will never be surprised by an unexpected charge. How much does cyst removal cost in the UK? →
Cyst Removal — Price Guide
Final price confirmed at your consultation based on cyst size, location, and complexity
Multiple cysts? We're happy to discuss package pricing at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Will the cyst come back after removal?
Is cyst removal painful?
How long does it take to heal after cyst removal?
Can I just have the cyst drained instead?
Do I need a referral from my NHS GP?
What if the cyst is infected?
What if the histology shows something concerning?
Your procedure is carried out by a qualified GP
Every cyst removal at Waverley Park is performed by one of our experienced GPs, at a practice with over 20 years of minor surgery expertise gained across NHS and private settings. All procedures are medically led, giving you the reassurance of proper clinical care throughout.
Meet the team →Cyst Removal Guides & Articles
What Our Patients Say
"I went to the doctor to have a small growth on my back checked. After being reassured it was bleeding because it was catching on my clothing — annoying, not sinister — I was offered the opportunity to have it removed at the surgery. It was duly removed one week later in a painless procedure in a calm environment. Highly recommend."
"She was excellent and dealt with all my issues in one appointment with no need for any follow up. Lovely staff to welcome you in the door too. I will definitely go back for any future treatments if needed and thoroughly recommend Dr Fraser for her kindness too."
"Have had an excellent experience at WPMP over the past few months. I was referred in from my GP to Dr Newman's clinic to have some painful lumps and bumps removed from my scalp. Have received excellent care from everyone at the Practice and would highly recommend."
Meet the Team
Conveniently Located on the Southside of Glasgow
Southside Glasgow — Shawlands / Pollokshields area
Waverley Park Minor Surgery is an NHS GP practice offering private minor surgery on the Southside of Glasgow, serving patients across Shawlands, Pollokshields, Pollokshaws, Giffnock, Newlands, Cathcart, Battlefield and the wider Glasgow G41, G43, G44 and G45 postcodes. We are easily accessible from the M77 and M8 motorways. For patients travelling by public transport, we are a short distance from Shawlands train station and served by multiple First Bus routes along Pollokshaws Road.
Ready to have your cyst assessed?
Book a £50 consultation with one of our GPs. If you proceed with removal, the consultation fee is deducted from your treatment cost.