Cyst Removal in Chichester
Assessment and surgical removal of cysts and lipomas by Dr Etienne Raffner. Not every cyst is suitable for private removal — honest advice at consultation.
"I've had several appointments with Dr Etienne Raffner now. He's a great doctor as he always listens to my concerns and gives plenty of advice and encouragement."
— Google Review"Dr Raffner is an incredibly skilled and knowledgeable surgeon. His attention to detail and care for his patients is second to none."
— Google Review"Absolutely fantastic experience with Dr Raffner. He made me feel completely at ease and the results are beautiful and natural."
— Google Review"Dr Etienne is so professional and reassuring. He took the time to explain everything in detail. I couldn't be happier with the results."
— Google Review"Outstanding care from Dr Raffner. You can really tell he has a surgical background — so precise and thorough. Highly recommend."
— Google Review"The most natural-looking results I've ever had. Dr Raffner's medical expertise really shows. He has a wonderful, calming manner."
— Google Review"I felt completely confident in Dr Raffner's hands. His knowledge as a maxillofacial surgeon makes such a difference to the quality of results."
— Google Review"I've had several appointments with Dr Etienne Raffner now. He's a great doctor as he always listens to my concerns and gives plenty of advice and encouragement."
— Google Review"Dr Raffner is an incredibly skilled and knowledgeable surgeon. His attention to detail and care for his patients is second to none."
— Google Review"Absolutely fantastic experience with Dr Raffner. He made me feel completely at ease and the results are beautiful and natural."
— Google Review"Dr Etienne is so professional and reassuring. He took the time to explain everything in detail. I couldn't be happier with the results."
— Google Review"Outstanding care from Dr Raffner. You can really tell he has a surgical background — so precise and thorough. Highly recommend."
— Google Review"The most natural-looking results I've ever had. Dr Raffner's medical expertise really shows. He has a wonderful, calming manner."
— Google Review"I felt completely confident in Dr Raffner's hands. His knowledge as a maxillofacial surgeon makes such a difference to the quality of results."
— Google ReviewAssessment
Every appointment begins with a clinical assessment. Dr Raffner examines the lump, takes a history of how long it has been present and whether it has changed, and advises on the most likely diagnosis and the appropriate course of action. Not every lump requires removal — some are best monitored, and others warrant a different pathway.
Common lesions assessed include epidermoid cysts (sebaceous cysts), pilar cysts on the scalp, and lipomas (fatty lumps). The assessment determines whether the lesion is suitable for private removal and, if so, the most appropriate timing and technique.
Inflamed vs Non-Inflamed Cysts
Non-inflamed cysts
Stable, painless lumps beneath the skin with no redness or swelling. These are typically suitable for surgical excision once assessed.
Inflamed or infected cysts
Red, tender, swollen or discharging cysts. These are not suitable for straightforward excision until the inflammation has settled. Dr Raffner will advise on the appropriate approach, which may include a period of treatment or drainage first.
The Procedure
Consultation
Dr Raffner assesses the cyst, confirms the likely diagnosis, and advises whether removal is appropriate and when.
Excision under local anaesthetic
The area is numbed. The cyst and its wall are removed entirely to reduce the chance of recurrence. Fine sutures are placed to close the wound.
Follow-up
Sutures are removed at a follow-up appointment 7–14 days later. The wound is reviewed and aftercare advice reinforced.
Scar
All surgical excision leaves some degree of scarring. The size of the scar depends on the size of the cyst and the amount of skin removed. Dr Raffner uses careful technique and precise suturing to minimise scarring, and scars typically fade over several months. Realistic expectations are discussed at your consultation.
Histology
Excised cyst tissue is commonly sent for histopathological analysis to confirm the diagnosis. Whether this is recommended in your case is discussed at your consultation. Results are communicated promptly once available.
Aftercare
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Written aftercare instructions are provided, including guidance on wound care and keeping the area protected. If sutures have been placed, these are removed at a follow-up appointment 7–14 days after the procedure.
When NHS or Specialist Treatment May Be More Appropriate
Not every cyst is suitable for private removal. Dr Raffner will advise honestly where a different pathway is more appropriate, including:
- Inflamed or infected cysts requiring antibiotics or drainage before any excision
- Very large cysts or lipomas that are better managed under the NHS
- Cysts in sensitive locations requiring specialist surgical input
- Lesions where the diagnosis is uncertain and further investigation is warranted
As a core member of the Kent & Sussex Skin Cancer MDT, Dr Raffner is well placed to identify when referral is the right course of action.
Pricing
Full pricing for cyst removal is confirmed at your consultation.
View Full PricingFrequently Asked Questions
Related Services
Book a cyst assessment
Concerned about a lump or cyst? Book a consultation with Dr Raffner for an honest assessment and clear advice.
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