
Immediate clearance of scrotal sebaceous cysts
Using Hyfrecation, you don’t need to wait for results to be seen
Same Day Treatment
For those who filled the questionnaire with images (and it is safe)
Friendly & Professional
We’re here to make the process as smooth & easy as possible for you
Hyfrecation. Our Method of Treatment
Local anaesthetic
Numbing cream
Number of visits
Procedure + Follow Up (if needed)
Length of appointments
60 minutes + 30 minutes (if needed)
Recovery
Continue with your day, minimising physical activity
Locations
Whilst Hyfrecation is an established treatment method and has been in practice for more than 80 years, it is a less well known method of treatment compared to Laser in the UK.
Hyfrecation is a minor surgical procedure that works by burning off skin lesions using electrocautery and results in the immediate clearance of these lesions.
Carried out under local anaesthesia (i.e. the skin around the lesions to be removed is numbed before treating), Hyfrecation is a very safe procedure which achieves clear results in almost 100% of patients for the treatment of scrotal sebaceous cyst. Sometimes a touch up may be needed a couple of weeks later to achieve the best results.
The procedure will leave a small raw area which should heal over in a few days. Being a medical procedure, it is essential to be aware of any possible side effects. Possible short term side effects like bleeding, bruising, soreness and infection and long term consequences like change in skin colour, scarring, development of neuralgic pain and loss of sensation over the treated area.
Want to learn more about Hyfrecation?
Eligibility
It is important to understand that treatment of scrotal sebaceous cysts is a cosmetic procedure. As such, if your life is unaffected by this, then you absolutely do not need to get treated.
However, if you find that your relationships, wellbeing and lifestyle is affected, we will discuss this with you and make sure that treatment is the right option for you.
How do I know if I am eligible for treatment?
Whilst it is only really after seeing you that we can make sure that you’re eligible for treatment, submitting our questionnaire (with pictures) will provide us with a very good idea.
Can I be treated for scrotal sebaceous cysts if I have been treated before?
Absolutely. We occasionally take on patients who have had laser treatment in the past and are seeking further treatment due to an unsatisfactory outcome or recurrence. Hyfrecation treatment can be safely performed in such patients with excellent results.
From what age can I be treated for scrotal sebaceous cysts?
We can see patients from the age of 18 and above at our clinic.
Are there any health conditions that might stop me from getting this treatment?
Occasionally, patients may have one of the following issues affecting the penile skin which needs to be addressed before undertaking the hyfrecation treatment:
- Infection of the surrounding skin.
- An outbreak of Genital herpes.
- Localised active Inflammatory conditions of the penile skin (for example, eczema).
- If you suffer from diabetes, and your sugar levels are out of control.
- If you suffer from hypertension, and your Blood Pressure is not controlled.
The Process
The consultation and procedure happen in one appointment, as long as it’s safe to do so.
Questionnaire
In order to be most prepared and leave plenty of time for discussion and procedure, we will ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire.
Consultation
We will assess and confirm your scrotal sebaceous cysts, discuss any questions you may have and the treatments available.
Procedure
Should you wish to proceed with treatment, we will be able to offer you our Hyfrecation procedure for the same day removal (subject to receiving a quote prior).
Follow Up
We recommend a follow up in 1-4 weeks to ensure there are no residual lesions that need treating and that the skin has healed well.
Aftercare
If you’ve just received treatment for Scrotal sebaceous cysts from us and are seeking advice on recovery and after, we’ve got the right information for you just here.
General
Can scrotal sebaceous cysts be cured?
Most people who are treated with scrotal sebaceous cysts do not show recurrence of their lesions, and therefore do not need to return for further treatment. However, as with any treatment, this is not something we can guarantee.
What benefits are there to treating scrotal sebaceous cysts?
If left untreated, scrotal sebaceous cysts can become infected, causing swelling, redness and tenderness around the cyst and they may burst, producing pus with a foul odour.
Whilst scrotal sebaceous cysts are harmless and normal, their presence can cause marked psychological distress. Their appearance can be perceived as unsightly, or they may be mistaken for a sexually transmitted infection which can cause significant stigma. People who are distressed by their scrotal sebaceous cysts may feel having them removed improves their self-esteem, confidence, and overall sex life.
Is there anything I can do at home if I have scrotal sebaceous cysts?
If you have scrotal sebaceous cysts, it’s highly discouraged to attempt any home remedies, including physical removal, burning, squeezing or ‘popping’ the cysts, or application of any over-the-counter remedies.
Avoid shaving and waxing in the area as this can irritate the skin and cause an infection.
Before the appointment
How can I prepare for my appointment?
Avoid shaving or waxing before your appointment to reduce the risk of infection. You may also want to have a shower on the day of your appointment to avoid the risk of infection further. Otherwise, there is nothing in particular you need to do and you can go about your day as usual.
Will I need to take time off after my appointment?
You typically do not need to take time off after your scrotal sebaceous cyst treatment. You will be able to go about your day as usual, unless you have a very physically demanding job. Avoid undertaking heavy physical exercise for 48 hours after the procedure.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You can bring your partner, friend or family member to your appointment.
However, if you feel that you would rather not bring someone to the appointment, rest assured that our staff are here to support you and make you feel comfortable. Clarewell Clinics is a safe space.
What travel arrangements should I make for after the appointment?
You do not need to make any special arrangements for after your procedure. However, if you would feel more comfortable, you may request a family member/friend/partner to accompany you on the way home.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
We currently do not deal with insurance companies ourselves. You will need to check with your healthcare insurance provider if they cover treatment for scrotal sebaceous cysts. We highly recommend getting approval in writing to avoid any miscommunication with your insurance company.
During the appointment
How will the appointment work?
When you arrive for your appointment, we will invite you in for the initial consultation.
Once we have reviewed your lesions, we will proceed to prepare you for the procedure (as long as you have booked in for same day treatment). This will involve going through the consent form, taking any pre-procedure pictures and applying the numbing cream in privacy.
After letting the numbing cream settle for approx. 15-20 minutes, we will check to make sure the area is numb and then continue to remove the lesions using Hyfrecation.
After the procedure, we will offer you aftercare advice and give you an aftercare pack with some items to help with the recovery.
Will the procedure hurt?
With the numbing cream the procedure will be as painless as possible. Your clinician will confirm the total numbness of skin before undertaking the procedure.
Can I listen to my music during the procedure?
Yes, absolutely you can. Please let us know at the time of your booking (or upon your arrival) so that we are ready to accommodate your wishes.
After the appointment
What should I expect after my appointment?
You may experience a little soreness at the site. This is completely normal and you can take painkillers against the discomfort. It usually takes 1-2 weeks for the skin to heal and most side effects should disappear within this time.
What do I do if I think I have a problem after the appointment?
If you think that something is wrong, please request a follow up call by contacting our clinic.
How soon after my appointment can I have sex?
It’s advised to abstain from sex and avoid masturbation until the area is healed (approx. 1-2 weeks). Intercourse during the healing process can increase the risk of infection, scarring or bleeding.
Will I require a follow up appointment after my appointment?
All patients who have gone through the main procedure are welcome to book in for a follow up appointment within 1-4 weeks after their procedure (included in the fee). This is entirely optional but can be useful for those whose skin requires a touch up.
What are the chances this Scrotal sebaceous cyst will come back after treatment?
Most people who are treated with scrotal sebaceous cysts do not show recurrence of their lesions, and therefore do not need to return for further treatment. However, as with any treatment, this is not something we can guarantee.
Fees
Genital Dermatology Consultation £150
Scrotal sebaceous cysts treatment (inc. consultation) From £550
Health Insurance
Find out if you can claim your visit
Don’t wait months.
Page reviewed by Dr. Manoj Malu (Clinical Director)
Last reviewed date: 19 January 2023
Next review due: 19 January 2026
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
References & Further Reading
- British Journal of Plastic Surgery: Idiopathic scrotal calcinosis: a possible aetiology reaffirmed
- JAMA Dermatology: Idiopathic Calcinosis of the Scrotum
- BMJ: Multiple large infected scrotal sebaceous cysts masking Fournier’s gangrene in a 32-year-old man
- American Family Physician: Sebaceous cyst excision with minimal surgery
- International Surgery Journal: Atypical sebaceous cyst: uncommon and unusual locations
- The Journal of Urology: Painless Scrotal Masses in the Pediatric Population: Prevalence and Age Distribution of Different Pathological Conditions–A 10-Year Retrospective Multicenter Study
- European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine: Clinical Investigation and Management of Scrotal Cysts
- Journal of Clinical and Experimental Investigations: Scrotal Calcinosis: Analysis of 5 Cases
- American Family Physician: Evaluation of Scrotal Masses
- Annals of Surgery: EPITHELIOMAS IN SEBACEOUS CYSTS