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Specialist Service · Edinburgh

Expert cyst removal in Edinburgh.

About this service

Private cyst removal,
done properly.

Sebaceous cysts—often called epidermoid or pilar cysts—are common, non‑cancerous lumps that develop beneath the skin when blocked follicles or oil glands fill with keratin. They’re most often found on the face, neck, scalp or torso and usually grow slowly, causing no pain unless infected. Occasionally, they may discharge a thick, unpleasant-smelling material. Learn more about cysts in our detailed guide on cyst removal.
Our Edinburgh clinic offers precise, minimally invasive removal of sebaceous, epidermoid and pilar cysts. In a private hospital setting, your personalised treatment plan will aim for the best cosmetic outcome and minimal scarring. During your consultation, a consultant from the GMC Specialist Register will assess your cyst and recommend the most suitable excision technique for a safe and satisfactory result.

Read more on Cysts by the NHS

Edinburgh-based, with patients seen from across central Scotland — including Glasgow, Fife, the Scottish Borders, Dundee & Perth, and Stirling & Falkirk.

Make an enquiry → See treatment options
Consultant using a handheld dermatoscope to assess a cyst on the upper back at Skin Surgeons Edinburgh
Consultant performing a dermatological skin procedure at Waterfront Private Hospital
Your journey

From enquiry to aftercare,
in four simple steps.

01 · Make An Enquiry. Complete our simple online form to receive an accurate price and personalised treatment plan.

02 · Arrange Appointment. Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule a convenient time for your visit to our Edinburgh clinic.

03 · Consultation & Treatment. Your private consultation and treatment are completed in one session, usually within 45 minutes.

04 · Aftercare & Follow Up. Enjoy inclusive, high-quality aftercare and follow-up support to ensure the best results.

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On the day

What to expect.

Local anaesthetic, single visit, quick recovery. Here's the shape of an appointment with us.

01 Type of Anaesthetic: Local → 02 Duration: 15 - 45 Minutes → 03 Appointment: See & Treat → 04 Recovery Time: 0 - 1 week →

Type of Anaesthetic: Local. To numb the area for painless surgery.

Duration: 15 - 45 Minutes. Dependent on removal method.

Appointment: See & Treat. Consultation & treatment in one visit.

Recovery Time: 0 - 1 week. Quick return to normal activity.

The dermatological surgical suite at Waterfront Private Hospital, Edinburgh
Why choose us

Three reasons patients choose us
for private cyst removal.

01

Specialist Expertise

Consultant Plastic Surgeon on GMC specialist register with expertise in skin cancer, reconstruction and cosmetic excellence.

02

Premier Edinburgh Hospital

Trustpilot 5-star-rated Edinburgh Waterfront Private Hospital offering comfort, discretion, and convenience.

03

Quick Access To Treament

No long waits. Easy access to appointments when you need them with no GP referral required.

Treatment methods

Cyst
removal options.

We provide a range of private treatment options for sebaceous cysts in Edinburgh, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our approach ensures both symptom relief and attention to cosmetic concerns.

We ensure patients are fully informed and involved in choosing the best treatment option, taking into account factors like the cyst’s size, location, and the patient’s preferences. Learn more about various mole treatment options in our comprehensive guide on cysts. We also provide detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to support proper healing and patient satisfaction.

Observation. For small, symptom-free cysts, we may recommend monitoring for any changes rather than immediate treatment.

Incision and Drainage. This procedure offers quick relief for painful, swollen cysts by draining the contents. However, as the cyst sac remains, there's a higher chance of recurrence.

Surgical Excision. For a more permanent solution, the entire cyst, including its sac, is surgically removed, greatly reducing the likelihood of recurrence. This is performed under local anaesthesia.

Antibiotics. If the cyst is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, although this won’t remove the cyst itself.

See pricing →
Consultant placing a small dressing on the upper back after a cyst removal at Skin Surgeons Edinburgh
Guide pricing

Cyst removal pricing.

Below are guide prices and can vary depending upon the complexity of your procedure. What you pay is always determined prior to committing to any treatment. [Visit our pricing page for more details.](/pricing-main)

Specialist Consultation

£125

  • Consultant Plastic Surgeon
  • Comprehensive assessment
  • Discuss options
  • Treatment on same day

Cyst Removal (Full Excision)

£695

  • Consultant Plastic Surgeon
  • Inclusive Aftercare
  • Additional cyst from £200
  • Pathology £130 if required
Make an enquiry →
Dr Kazem Nassar, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Skin Surgeons Edinburgh
Your consultant

Dr Kazem Nassar
Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

Dr Kazem Nassar is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register. The consultant who sees you in clinic is the same consultant who performs your procedure and reviews the scar at follow-up.

Credentials. MBChB, FRCS (Plast).

Membership. GMC Specialist Register · 10+ years' plastic surgery experience.

Specialism. Excision of epidermoid and pilar cysts via small ellipse incisions, with full removal of the cyst wall to reduce recurrence.

Histology. Where indicated, removed tissue is sent for pathological analysis with the report shared at follow-up.

Read consultant profile →
Frequently asked

About cyst removal.

Cyst removal FAQ

01 What is a cyst?

A cyst is a closed sac under the skin filled with fluid, keratin, or other material. They often appear as round, firm lumps and are usually benign.

02 What causes skin cysts to form?

Skin cysts often develop when hair follicles or skin glands become blocked. They can also form due to trauma, inflammation, or a build-up of keratin beneath the skin.

03 Do cysts go away on their own?

Some cysts may shrink over time, but most persist or grow slowly. They usually do not resolve completely without treatment.

04 How long does a skin cyst last?

Cysts can remain for months or years if untreated. While some may remain stable, others can become inflamed, grow, or become infected.

05 What are the risks of leaving a cyst untreated?

Untreated cysts can increase in size, become infected, or rupture. This may lead to pain, drainage, scarring, or the need for more complex surgical removal.

06 What does a cyst look like?

Most cysts appear as smooth, round lumps under the skin. They may be skin-coloured, white, or slightly red if inflamed or infected.

07 Can a cyst become infected or painful?

Yes. Cysts can become tender, red, and swollen if infected or irritated. Infected cysts may need antibiotics or drainage before removal.

08 Are sebaceous cysts different from other cysts?

Sebaceous cysts, more accurately called epidermoid cysts, form from blocked skin glands. They are one of the most common types seen in clinical practice.

09 How is a cyst removed?

Cysts are usually removed through a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic. The entire cyst sac is excised to prevent recurrence.

10 Is cyst removal painful or will I need stitches?

Cyst removal is typically painless as it’s done under local anaesthetic. Most cases require a few stitches, which are removed within 7–10 days or are dissolving.

11 How much does private cyst removal cost in Edinburgh?

At Skin Surgeons in Edinburgh, cyst removal starts from £695, depending on size and location. This includes aftercare. Your initial consultation is £125.

12 How do I book a cyst removal consultation in Edinburgh?

You can book a consultation by contacting us or using the online enquiry form on our website. Appointments take place at Waterfront Private Hospital in North Edinburgh.

13 Is private cyst removal faster than the NHS in Scotland?

Yes. Private cyst removal typically offers shorter waiting times than the NHS. At Skin Surgeons in Edinburgh, we can often offer appointments within days.

Patient reviews on Google

What cyst & lump patients say.

Top-Rated Service 2026 on Trustindex. We don't filter, edit, or republish — every review is live on Google.

★★★★★ Facial Mole Removal

"Attended for a consultation with Dr Kazem Nassar and subsequent multiple raised mole removal from face. Received really good information and assurance, the procedure went smoothly and relatively pain free. Stitch removal was pain free and all wounds appear to be healing well. Wish I had done this years ago."

— Lesley B

★★★★★ Exceptional Care

"From my first contact with Waterfront Private Hospital to walking out the door after the procedure, I received exceptional care. All staff were professional and approachable, especially Dr Nassar who undertook the procedure. He explained what would happen, the risks and how to manage the wound at home."

— Fiona

★★★★★ Cyst Removal

"The hospital was lovely and clean. The doctor who did the cyst removal on my head was very well informed, told me everything about getting it done. Excellent customer service and care. The procedure took just under an hour, very quick and relatively painless."

— Lindsey W

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Exterior of the Waterfront Private Hospital, Edinburgh
Get in touch

Make an enquiry.

Phone, email, or message us — one of our team will respond within one working day. No GP referral required.

0131 376 2744
Hospital
Waterfront Private Hospital
1 Waterfront Park
Edinburgh EH5 1SD
Hours
Mon–Fri · 08:00–17:00
Access
Step-free entry · Free patient parking
Email an enquiry →
Getting here

How to find us.

Waterfront Private Hospital, 1 Waterfront Park, Edinburgh EH5 1SD. Free patient parking on site. Open one section below for the journey that suits you.

01 Driving & satnav — Satnav postcode EH5 1SD · 5 min from Crewe Toll roundabout

From Waterfront Broadway, turn left at the traffic lights onto Waterfront Park. Pass the hospital on your left, then take the first left — the car park is immediately on your left. Walk through the car park, exit via the metal gate and follow the path round to the hospital entrance. Crewe Toll roundabout (Telford / Ferry / Crewe Road) is the closest major junction.

02 Parking — Free patient parking on site · 3-hr free at Morrisons next door

Free parking is available in the private car park at the rear of the hospital. There is also free 3-hour parking at the Morrisons supermarket a few minutes' walk away. Step-free access to reception.

03 Bus — Lothian routes 8, 9, 16, 19, 22, 24, 38, X37

The hospital is served by Lothian Buses routes 8, 9, 16, 19, 22, 24, 38 and X37, with stops on Waterfront Avenue and Waterfront Broadway only a short walk from reception.

04 Train — Nearest mainline: Haymarket (~15 min by car or taxi)

The nearest major rail station is Haymarket, approximately 15 minutes away by car or taxi. From Haymarket you can connect to the hospital by bus or by tram + short transfer.

05 Tram — Edinburgh Trams · alight Ocean Terminal, then short transfer

The Edinburgh Trams route to Newhaven includes a stop at Ocean Terminal, which is a short bus or taxi ride from the hospital.

06 From the city centre — 20–25 min by bus from Waverley · St Andrew Square · Bus Station

We are approximately 20–25 minutes by bus from central Edinburgh, including Waverley Station, St Andrew Square and the Edinburgh Bus Station. Regular services run throughout the day with stops near the hospital.

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