Ganglion Cyst Removal
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
If you’ve noticed a lump on your wrist or hand that’s causing discomfort, restricting movement, or affecting your confidence, you may have a ganglion cyst. These fluid-filled swellings are common and benign, but can sometimes interfere with everyday activities.
Mr Rikki Mistry, a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in hand and wrist surgery, offers expert assessment and precise treatment to safely remove ganglion cysts and restore comfortable, confident use of your hand.
Understanding Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps that commonly develop near joints or tendons in the wrist and hand.
Where do they occur?
Back of the wrist (most common)
Front of the wrist
Base of the fingers
Around finger joints
What causes them?
Ganglion cysts arise when synovial fluid (joint fluid) leaks out and collects in a sac. The exact cause is not always clear, but they may be linked to:
Joint or tendon irritation
Repetitive hand use
Previous injury
Degenerative changes
Common symptoms
A visible lump that may change in size
Aching or discomfort, especially with movement
Reduced range of motion
Occasionally, tingling if nearby nerves are affected
Do they need treatment?
Not always. Many ganglion cysts are painless and can be monitored. Treatment is recommended if:
The cyst is painful
It restricts movement or function
It presses on nearby nerves
It is cosmetically concerning
Tailored Care for Every Patient
During your consultation, Mr Mistry will:
Examine the lump and assess your hand function
Confirm the diagnosis (sometimes using ultrasound if needed)
Discuss your symptoms and how the cyst affects your daily life
Explain treatment options, including observation, aspiration or surgery
Recommend the most appropriate approach based on your goals
Because ganglion cysts vary in size, location and impact, treatment is always personalised to achieve the best functional and cosmetic outcome.
Ganglion Cyst Removal Procedure
Non-surgical option (Aspiration)
Fluid is drained from the cyst using a needle
Quick and minimally invasive
However, recurrence is relatively common
Surgical removal (Excision)
Anaesthesia Usually performed under local or regional anaesthetic (sometimes general anaesthetic depending on the case).
Incision A small incision is made over the cyst.
Removal of the cyst The cyst is carefully removed along with its stalk (connection to the joint or tendon), which helps reduce the chance of recurrence.
Closure The incision is closed with fine stitches and dressed.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 20–40 minutes and is usually performed as a day-case surgery.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediately after surgery:
A light dressing or splint may be applied
Mild discomfort, swelling or stiffness is normal
First 1–2 weeks:
Keep the wound clean and dry
Stitches are usually removed after 10–14 days
Gentle movement is encouraged to prevent stiffness
Return to normal activities:
Light use of the hand can resume within a few days
Most patients return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks
Heavier activities may take slightly longer
What to expect:
Swelling gradually reduces
Scar softens over time
Function improves as healing progresses
Risk of recurrence:
While surgery significantly reduces the chance of recurrence, a small risk remains.
When to seek advice
Contact your surgeon if you notice:
Increasing pain or swelling
Redness or signs of infection
Persistent stiffness or reduced movement
Why Choose Rikki Mistry
Specialist hand surgeon:
Extensive experience in treating hand and wrist conditions, including ganglion cysts.
Precision techniques Careful removal of the cyst and its root helps minimise recurrence.
Focus on function and appearance The goal is to restore comfortable movement while achieving a neat, minimal scar.
Personalised care Treatment is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle and preferences.
Comprehensive support From diagnosis to recovery, you’ll receive clear guidance and attentive follow-up care.
