Ganglion Cysts

Name: Ganglion Cysts
Brand: Elevate Plastic Surgery

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the hand or wrist that can sometimes require surgical removal, which we offer at Elevate Plastic Surgery.

Reliable Ganglion Cyst Treatment in Thousand Oaks

Ganglion cysts are a common condition that takes the form of small, fluid-filled lumps, which tend to develop along tendons or joints in your hands or wrists. These cysts are often harmless, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or limit movement if they press on a nerve. In those cases, the symptoms can continue to grow worse if the cysts are left untreated. If you have a ganglion cyst causing significant discomfort or other symptoms, you should consider undergoing treatment at Elevate Plastic Surgery.

What Are Ganglion Cysts?

Ganglion cysts are sacs filled with a jelly-like fluid that form on or near joints or tendons, most commonly on the wrist or hand. They can also occur on the ankle or foot. The exact cause of ganglion cysts is unknown, but they may develop as a result of repetitive stress or injury to the affected area. Oftentimes, ganglion cysts will develop without causing any pain or other symptoms. However, when one of these cysts presses on a nerve in your hand or wrist, it can start to cause discomfort and limit your ability to complete certain tasks. This is when it becomes essential to seek medical attention.

Symptoms of Ganglion Cysts

If you have a ganglion cyst, you may notice a small, round lump or bump located near a joint or tendon in your hand or wrist. The lump may be firm or spongy to the touch and can range in size from a pea to a golf ball. If the lump is pressing against a nerve, it will likely be painful.

You may also experience some discomfort or pain when you move the affected joint or tendon. This is because the cyst can put pressure on these structures, causing irritation and inflammation. In some cases, the cyst may also cause weakness or numbness in the affected area.

It’s important to note that not all ganglion cysts cause noticeable symptoms. In some cases, the cyst may be present for years without causing any problems. However, if you do experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment for Ganglion Cysts

If you have a ganglion cyst, there are several treatment options available. The type of treatment that’s best for you will depend on the size and location of the cyst, as well as your symptoms and medical history. When you sit down for a private consultation with Dr. Rahgozar, he will examine your ganglion cyst and ask you about the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. This will allow him to determine an ideal treatment plan. Potential treatment options for ganglion cysts include the following:

Watchful Waiting

If your ganglion cyst is small and not causing any pain or discomfort, Dr. Rahgozar may recommend a "watchful waiting" approach.

This means that you will not receive any treatment, but he will monitor the cyst to make sure that it does not grow or cause any problems.

Aspiration

If your ganglion cyst is causing pain or limiting your range of motion, Dr. Rahgozar may want to try aspiration.

This procedure involves using a needle to drain the fluid from the cyst.

Aspiration is a quick and relatively painless procedure, but there is a chance that the cyst may return.

Surgery

If your ganglion cyst is large, painful, or causing other problems, Dr. Rahgozar may determine that surgical removal is the best option. This procedure is administered on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia with IV sedation. During the surgery, Dr. Rahgozar will make a small incision in your hand or wrist and carefully remove the cyst. In some cases, he may also need to remove a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath.

What Is the Recovery Like After Ganglion Cyst Removal Surgery?

After undergoing ganglion cyst treatment in Thousand Oaks, you can expect a period of recovery as your body heals. Recovery time can vary depending on the size and location of the cyst, as well as the extent of the procedure. During the first few days after surgery, it’s important to rest and avoid any strenuous activities that could cause strain on the surgical site. You may also need to keep the affected area elevated to reduce swelling. Dr. Rahgozar will provide instructions on how to care for the surgical site and when to change the dressing.

You may be able to return to work after a few days or a week, but if your job requires frequent use of your hands, you might need to take several weeks off. As the days go by, you can gradually increase your activity level, but be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions. You may need to avoid certain activities, such as heavy lifting or sports until Dr. Rahgozar gives you the green light. You may also need to attend physical therapy sessions to help restore strength and mobility to the affected area.

Why Choose Elevate Plastic Surgery for Ganglion Cyst Treatment in Thousand Oaks?

We at Elevate Plastic Surgery take pride in treating our patients with respect, empathy, and professionalism while providing fully personalized hand care. Our staff surgeon, Dr. Paymon Rahgozar, is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in treating hand and wrist injuries and has trained at several prestigious institutions. At our clinic, we take the time to get to know each patient on a personal level and curate a unique treatment plan that’s custom-tailored to their needs. This allows us to consistently deliver exceptional results that help our clients improve their quality of life. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rahgozar, simply contact our office today.