Eliminate pain and recurring infections with expert pilonidal cyst treatment at Millennia Wellness MD. We treat active cysts, chronic inflammation, and recurrent abscesses with advanced, physician-led care. To reduce recurrence, we also offer laser hair removal to target the root cause: ingrown hairs in the natal cleft.
What is a pilonidal cyst?
A pilonidal cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms near the tailbone, typically at the top of the buttocks. It often contains hair and skin debris and can become infected, causing pain, swelling, and drainage of pus. Pilonidal cysts are most common in young adults and may result from ingrown hairs or friction from prolonged sitting. While some cysts remain small and asymptomatic, others become chronic and require medical treatment.
Signs and symptoms of pilonidal cysts:
- Pain or tenderness near the tailbone, especially when sitting
- Swelling or a lump at the top of the buttock crease
- Redness or inflamed skin in the area
- Pus or blood draining from a small opening in the skin
- Foul odor from the draining fluid
- Warmth or heat around the cyst
- Fever (in cases of severe infection)
- Recurrent abscesses or flare-ups in the same area
What is the root cause of a pilonidal cyst?
The root cause of a pilonidal cyst is believed to be ingrown hairs that penetrate the skin in the cleft between the buttocks. Friction, prolonged sitting, tight clothing, and excessive body hair can cause hairs to become embedded in the skin, triggering an inflammatory response. Over time, this leads to the formation of an abscess. At Millennia Wellness MD, we offer laser hair removal to prevent future hair-related irritation and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
The risk of recurrence is particularly high
Pilonidal cysts have a high recurrence rate, with studies showing up to 30-40% of cases returning after initial treatment. Recurrence is especially common if the underlying cause, i.e., ingrown hairs, is not addressed. Even after surgical drainage, patients often experience flare-ups without long-term preventive care. We minimize this risk by offering preventative strategies, including laser hair removal, to reduce hair growth in the affected area.
How laser hair removal can reduce the risk
Laser hair removal targets and destroys hair follicles using concentrated light energy, reducing hair regrowth in the treated area. By eliminating hair near the natal cleft, it minimizes the risk of loose hairs penetrating the skin, a key trigger for pilonidal cysts. The laser’s heat damages the follicle at the root, disrupting its growth cycle. At Millennia Wellness MD, we use medical-grade laser technology to provide long-term hair reduction, helping prevent cyst recurrence.
The benefits of laser hair removal for pilonidal cysts:
- Reduces hair regrowth in the affected area
- Lowers the risk of cyst recurrence by preventing ingrown hairs
- Minimizes friction and skin irritation
- Long-term results with minimal maintenance
- Non-invasive and virtually painless procedure
- Improves hygiene and ease of skin care in the natal cleft
- Safe for most skin types with minimal downtime
Note: laser therapy is done after pilonidal surgery
Laser hair removal is recommended only after the active pilonidal cyst or infection has been fully treated, typically through drainage or surgery. Once the area has healed, laser hair removal can help prevent recurrence by targeting hair follicles responsible for irritation and cyst formation. At Millennia Wellness MD, we schedule laser sessions as part of a post-surgical maintenance plan to minimize future flare-ups and promote long-term skin health in the affected area.
We don’t treat disease… we optimize your life
Millennia Wellness MD is more than a clinic; we’re your partner in long-term wellness. Led by Dr. Biju Mathew, a board-certified internal medicine physician with over 10 years of experience, we take a multidimensional approach to health. From treating active pilonidal cysts to offering laser therapy and lifestyle guidance, Dr. Mathew is personally involved in your care. We go beyond symptom relief to prevent future issues through regular follow-ups. Schedule your consultation to start your path toward lasting relief and optimized wellness.
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