Depending on the case, surgical drainage may help reduce pain and inflammation. This relatively simple procedure can take place in the doctor’s office. Using local anesthetics, the doctor makes a small cut in the cyst, which allows drainage of pus and fluid. Once complete, the wound is packed with sterile gauze and left open; this helps to heal the infected cyst from the inside out, a process that can take upwards of four weeks. During this period, the individual must make sure to regularly change the gauze.

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