A cyst is a small sac underneath the surface of the skin. It is smooth and rounded, most often filled with fluid or other soft material. While cysts can grow very large in size, they are slow-growing and not painful. In most cases, cysts are benign so, even though they may look frightening, a quick trip to Park Avenue Skin Care will be enough to remove the cyst and get your skin back to normal. Cysts can appear anywhere on the body and there are hundreds of types of cysts. Most commonly, people will experience:

  • Milia: a small type of cyst, milia present as small, white bumps around the eyes, nose, and cheek. Milia are made of keratin that gets trapped beneath the skin's surface, which is why this type of cyst is often quite hard. Most people do not get this type of cyst removed, but Dr. Schultz frequently removes milia if the patient would prefer to have them gone.
  • Sebaceous Cysts: a slow-growing type of cyst, sebaceous cysts are typically benign and filled with liquid or soft material. This type of cyst most commonly develops on the face, neck, back, or torso. While sebaceous cysts are typically benign, some people may find them uncomfortable as they continue to grow.
  • Cystic Acne: the most serious type of acne, cystic acne is a painful condition marked by redness, large cysts, discomfort, swelling, and scarring. The cysts develop as a result of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells becoming trapped within a pore. It is important to seek treatment from a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Schultz to best manage this condition.

A boil is a painful bump underneath the surface of the skin. Unlike cysts, boils are filled with pus and are typically painful. Boils are most commonly caused by a staph infection that takes hold of a hair follicle or oil gland anywhere on the body. Depending on the boil's location, it may be called an abscess, stye, or carbuncle. Conditions like diabetes, autoimmune conditions, nutritional deficiencies, poor hygiene, and chemical exposure can all contribute to the development of a boil. As boils are an infection, it is important to seek medical care rather than trying to pop the boil at home. Patients with boils may notice that their lymph nodes become more swollen and painful as the boil grows, and a fever may also be present.

While boils and cysts are very different conditions, both appear as sacs underneath the skin. Boils develop as a result of a bacterial infection from staph, which can cause further infection and pain if the boil goes untreated. On the other hand, cysts are slow-growing and contain biological fluid rather than pus since an infection does not cause them. Cysts can be caused by a number of conditions, including inflammation, acne, genetic conditions, and pore blockages.

While boils and cysts are unsightly, they are easily manageable when you work with a dermatologist like Dr. Schultz. The goal of treating boils and cysts is to remove the growth and ensure that the area is clean and closed properly to prevent infection and scarring. Many cysts can be treated by draining the contents with a needle or catheter. Depending on the cyst's size, it may need to be removed through an incision and closed with stitches. In these cases, Dr. Schultz may choose to send the cyst to be evaluated at a lab. Treating boils often requires Dr. Schultz to drain the infection. The fluid may also be sent away for testing at a lab to determine the type of bacteria that caused the boil. You may also be prescribed antibiotics if the infection was severe so that your body is better able to fight the infection and heal.

Dr. Schultz understands that cysts and boils can be painful as well as unsightly. By carefully examining your cyst or boil, Dr. Schultz will be able to recommend a treatment plan. For some individuals, medical intervention may not be needed. However, if your cyst or boil does require draining or removal, Dr. Schultz is highly qualified to do so within the privacy and comfort of Park Avenue Skin Care. That means you’ll be able to go home the same day of your appointment and begin the healing process.

During your appointment, Dr. Schultz will discuss your skin health and concerns with you. Dr. Schultz will closely examine the cyst or boil, palpating it to feel for certain markers of concern. Depending on his findings, he will recommend the best treatment option for you. The goal of treating cysts and boils is to remove the growth, either conservatively or through an in-office surgical procedure, minimize the risk of recurrence, and reduce scars' appearance. If your cyst or boil is suspicious, Dr. Schultz may send a sample to a specialized lab that can study the contents and report their findings. For most people, lab results will determine that a cyst is benign or that a staph infection caused the boil. This information is essential to know as it will help Dr. Schultz get a better understanding of your skin and overall health.

Patient Reviews

I've been seeing Dr. Schultz for the last 8 years and during that time, I've recommended him to countless friends for both cosmetic and medical dermatologic help. I trust him completely both diagnostically and aesthetically. When I had shingles, he was wonderful, incredibly supportive and kind. And when I eased into doing more cosmetic dermatology, he was– and continues to be– patient, careful and cautious. He listens to concerns and really hears what your goal outcome is and works with you to make it happen. I wanted to maintain a natural look while keeping my skin looking fresh and that's just what he's done for me. I always leave his office feeling prettier and well-cared for! If you have a medical concern or something about your skin you want to upgrade, you can't do better than Dr. Schultz and his wonderful team. And the products are amazing as well!

- Laura B.

Dr. Schultz is the most thorough and good natured dermatologist I have ever seen. I have been a patient of his for more than 20 years. He has taught me everything I know about the value of taking care of my skin, a gift that keeps on giving. He also takes the time to listen to me, to see me as an individual and doesn't treat my needs as a one size fits all doctor. I really appreciate his kindness, patience and expertise. I absolutely love his product line and have definitely reaped the rewards from using it, especially his glycolic peel pads and moisturizer, which I can't live without. My skin feels softer, smoother, appears more translucent and actually looks younger! He helped me to see beyond the lines and wrinkles, although he so good at helping to keep those at bay while maintaining a very natural appearance. His staff is outstanding. They make you feel welcome, like family, from the moment you walk through the door. Angela, Monika, Deborah and all of the support staff are extraordinary at what they do. Thank you Dr. Schultz and everyone at Park Ave Skincare. You're the best!

- Laura M.

Dr. Schultz has truly transformed my skin, so much so that I can confidently leave the house without wearing makeup now. During my first meeting with him, he intently listened to my skin concerns, we discussed what my goals were, and he explained pragmatically what treatments and products he recommended for me. I truly appreciate his fantastic bedside manner and conservative approach. I am a perfectionist in every aspect of my life, including my skin, and he understood this and was committed to helping me achieve every skin goal I had. The entire staff is just so fantastic and friendly, from reception to the PAs. They make you feel welcome and extremely comfortable, which to me is very important when visiting any doctor’s office. As someone who works too much and never gets enough sleep, my skin was looking very dull and lifeless. My skin is now full of life again and has an incredible glow to it which I have never had before. And I owe it all to the incredible Dr. Schultz.

- Kelly D.

My partnership with Dr Schultz began more than 30 years ago. As a generous friend, advisor, skilled surgeon, and superb cosmetic diagnostician, he has enabled me to look my best. He has kept me abreast of the most sophisticated procedures and in so doing, has maximized my appearance, always guided by what will be most beneficial for me. He is someone I go to for advice and care and his staff is another manifestation of this care. I don’t know many patients who can say this, and I feel fortunate to be among them.

- Ellen R.

In the four years that I've been a patient of Dr. Schultz, my acne-prone skin has gone from constant breakouts to smooth and clear. These days, I feel confident and comfortable enough in my skin to wear minimal makeup, if any—which I never would have done in years past. He and his warm, friendly staff always go above and beyond; he takes the time to listen, talk with me, and create the best plan for my skin. It's clear he has my best interests in mind, and I trust him wholeheartedly. I would highly recommend him to friends, family, and frankly, anyone who asks.

- Deanna P.

Each session with Dr. Schultz is a mini education in skin care. He approaches each patient as a unique individual with different needs. I’m Asian and he’s explained to me how that impacts treatment in a clear manner that a layperson can understand. At each examination, he recites detailed notes to his staff which he then refers back to at each future appointment, adjusting and tweaking treatment plans when necessary. Over the past two years I’ve seen a remarkable improvement in my blemishes and overall complexion and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their appearance.

- Sherry G.

I have been a patient of Dr. Schultz for many years, and I continue to be amazed at his medical approach, patience, and professionalism. He takes the time to listen to my health concerns, explains how and why he would like to issue a treatment in a way that I understand , answers all of my questions, and all of his procedures and painless and thorough. He is very attentive, results-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable. He follows up and is committed to my health and satisfaction. The Park Avenue Skincare is a calm environment and the staff are all very friendly, warm, and respectful. It's easy to get appointments at a time that works for me and they are always on time and considerate. I think so highly of him and his practice that I sent my mom to him, and continue to go to his office even though my life is based in midtown west! I have great confidence in the care that he gives.

- Katrina A.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I avoid developing a boil or cyst?

    While it isn’t always possible to avoid cysts and boils, hygiene is Read More

  • Can I treat my boil or cyst at home?

    We do not recommend treating cysts or boils at home. Over the Read More

  • Will my boil or cyst come back?

    It is possible for you to develop cysts and boils again once Read More

  • Do boils or cysts increase my risk for cancer?

    The majority of cysts are benign. If Dr. Schultz notices something suspicious Read More

Rejuvenate Your Skin

Make your skin care a priority with leading-dermatologist and New York Magazine’s “Top Doctor”: Dr. Neal Schultz.



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