Pilonidal Cysts in Chandler & Scottsdale, AZ

Pilonidal cysts can be especially painful and require treatment from a colorectal surgeon. At ACE Clinic, we can help you manage symptoms and learn the right steps to take to treat them and prevent them from reoccurring.

What is a Pilonidal Cyst?

A pilonidal cyst is a type of chronic skin infection that occurs around the crease of the buttocks and near the tailbone. Because of their location, pilonidal cysts can be very painful, especially when sitting down.

What are the Symptoms of a Pilonidal Cyst?

Pilonidal cysts require prompt treatment from a colorectal expert. Symptoms typically include:

  • Pain that worsens when sitting
  • Swelling, redness, or tenderness between your buttocks
  • A small dimple or bump
  • Draining and foul smell
  • Fever, fatigue, or nausea

What Causes Pilonidal Cysts?

We’re unsure what exactly causes pilonidal cysts, but they’re often found to be tied to ingrown hairs that infect the skin. Men are much more likely to experience pilonidal cysts than women, although women can get them too. People who sit for extended periods of time because of their job or lifestyle are more likely to develop them. Additionally, people with thick or coarse body hair can be more likely to develop pilonidal cysts.

What Are My Treatment Options for Pilonidal Cysts?

Treatment depends on disease pattern.

If there is an infection, your surgeon needs to drain the fluid by making a small incision. Depending on the severity of your cyst, your colorectal surgeon might prescribe antibiotics to help control inflammation and reduce infection.

Chronic or recurring cysts may need complete surgical excision.

Pilonidal Cyst Outlook and Steps to Take

Pilonidal cyst requires prompt treatment from a colorectal surgeon if it is infected. Make sure to follow aftercare steps given by our team to ensure the area heals quickly and effectively.

Schedule an Appointment

With the help of our expert team, you can achieve relief with effective, professional treatment. To schedule your appointment, we invite you to contact us by calling or filling out our online contact form.

Pilonidal Cyst FAQs

What do I do if my pilonidal cyst pops?

You will want to see your doctor as soon as possible and clean the area as best as you can until you can get in for an appointment.

How long do pilonidal cysts last?

Some people may have one pilonidal cyst, and once it disappears or is removed via surgery, it never returns. Others see them appear over and over again, even after they have them removed.

How do I know if I have a pilonidal cyst?

You likely have a pilonidal cyst if you have pain that gets worse when you're sitting, notice a dimple or swollen area between your buttocks, have an abscess with draining pus or blood, and or are experiencing nausea and fatigue.

Who gets pilonidal cysts?

Men tend to get pilonidal cysts more often than women. People who sit all day, are overweight, and are between puberty and 40 years old are also more likely to develop a pilonidal cyst.

What causes pilonidal cysts?

The exact cause is unknown, but ingrown hairs in the crease of the buttocks have been known to lead to an infection that causes pilonidal cysts.

Do pilonidal cysts go away on their own?

Some pilonidal cysts drain and go away on their own, but if you have chronic cysts, they will likely return.

Will my pilonidal cyst come back?

It is possible. Chronic cysts can come back, and if left untreated, abscesses and even sinus cavities can develop in and around the buttocks.

Meet the Doctors

At Arizona Colorectal Experts, we are dedicated to providing you with effective and timely treatment to help you feel your absolute best. Our team of skilled doctors, Dr. Hekmat Hakiman FACS, FASCRS, Dr. Arpit Patel FACS, FASCRS, and Dr. Shawn Webb, MD, FASCRS are dedicated to providing outstanding care through the use of forefront technologies and techniques. Our doctors are board-certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery to provide you with the best possible outcomes.

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Please do not hesitate to call us at 602-844-5157 or fill out our online form if you have a question.