cebaceous cyst near elbow home remedies?

[jfelice27]

I went to the dermatologist last week as I have a marble sized cyst just near my elbow. She recommended I see a general surgeon to have it excised. She mentioned it would be a lengthy recovery time (up to 8 months) as it is in a bad spot, on a joint. It is not bothersome but it is unsightly. I have been putting castor oil and tumeric on a bandage and putting a heating pad on it the past few days in hopes of shrinking it down, but I'm afraid it is too big at this point. Does anyone have any suggestions of home remedies besides the castor oil? I prefer not to do the surgery. Any input would be appreciated!

[jemma116]

If your cyst is an acne type, you can apply drawing ointment that you can purchase from the pharmacist.  You can only apply the ointment to unbroken skin.

If you cyst is a ganglion type, no amount of any oil or cream application to the outer layer of the skin will get rid of it.  It can only be removed surgically.

Best wishes.

[jfelice27]

The dermatologist said its a sebaceous cyst. She told me it is not  a ganglion cyst as it is not in an area that is common for them. This is why I have been trying the castor oil to draw it out but I'm skeptical that it will work as its marble sized. Any recommendations?

[jemma116]

Your dermatologist probably explained to you that cysts are non-cancerous.  They are closed pockets of tissue that may have fluid, pus, or other foreign substance inside.  Did she say what your cyst is filled with?

As you already know cysts usually do not cause pain unless they rupture or become infected or inflamed. Sometimes they disappear on their own without any treatment. Pus cysts may need to be drained by piercing the cyst with a sharp object to allow it to be drained.

Cysts that are inflamed can be treated with an injection of cortisone medication, this makes the cyst shrink.

If no treatment helps or if the cyst keep reoccurring, the cyst can be removed surgically.

I presume as the dermatologist said it would take 8 months to heal if it was surgically removed, that she did not suggest any home remedies for removal.

Is anything happening with the caster oil?

Magnesium sulphate paste that can be purchased from the pharmacist is a drawing ointment.  Don't know it that would help.  Remember though it can only be applied to skin that is not broken.

Another home remedy may be to apply a poultice made from Bicarbonate of Soda and a little water.  Don't know if this would be helpful though, as I have not tried it.

Best wishes.