Epidermoid cyst

I have an epidermoid cyst on the tip of my nose, it has been there for about 18 months following a spot. I am really self conscious about it. I asked my doctor the other day if it could be removed but he was quite dismissive and said it would scar. Is there any other treatment that can be done to remove it. I was thinking of using salicylic acid out of desperation but was concerned it would make it worse. I feel a scar would be better than a cyst as at least it may be flat and I could then cover it with make up.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Epidermoid cyst is a benign cyst which can be caused by a blocked pore adjacent to a body piercing. It needs to be excised when infected/painful or when cosmetically causing problems. It has to be removed surgically and no topical treatment is not effective.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.