Ganglion Cyst Removal
Also known as: excision of ganglion cyst
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps that most commonly occur along the tendons or joints of the wrists and hands. However, they can occur in other parts of the body, particularly the ankles and feet.
What is a ganglion cyst?
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps that most commonly occur along the tendons or joints of the wrists and hands. However, they can occur in other parts of the body, particularly the ankles and feet. These cysts are usually round or oval and are filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid called synovial fluid, the same lubricant found in healthy joints and tendon sheaths.
Ganglion cysts can be as small as a pea or as big as a golf ball. While many cysts are small and painless, others can grow and cause discomfort, restrict movement, or press on nearby nerves, resulting in tingling, weakness, or pain.
Cysts in the lower limbs, such as on the foot or ankle, can make walking difficult or cause problems when wearing shoes. Cysts in the upper limbs can affect hand function, grip strength and flexibility. While some cysts resolve on their own without treatment, persistent or painful cysts that interfere with daily activities may need surgical intervention.
Treatment options
There are two primary treatment options for ganglion cysts: aspiration and surgical removal. Aspiration involves using a needle and syringe to drain the fluid from the cyst; surgical removal involves cutting out the cyst. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the cyst, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences.
What is ganglion cyst removal surgery?
Ganglion cyst removal is a minor surgical procedure that involves completely excising the cyst, including its stalk, which is the connection between the cyst and the joint or tendon. Removing both the cyst and stalk helps to reduce the risk of recurrence. Before the surgery, the surgical site will be numbed. This will allow for the cyst to be removed pain-free. Surgery is recommended when a cyst is painful, presses on nearby nerves or blood vessels or severely restricts joint function. It is also considered when non-surgical approaches such as aspiration (draining the fluid) or immobilisation fail to provide lasting relief. Ganglion cysts can occur in the wrists and hands, as well as in the ankles, feet, and toes. Regardless of location, the goal of surgery is to eliminate the source of pain, restore function and prevent recurrence.
Ganglion cyst removal surgery can be performed under local anaesthesia, where the patient remains awake, or under general anaesthesia, where the patient is asleep during the operation, depending on the size and location of the cyst and your individual needs.
Please call to enquire about the price
Ways to payBefore surgery
Your care journey begins with a consultation with a specialist. During this visit, the surgeon will discuss your symptoms, the location of your cyst and any previous treatments you may have had. Our surgeons are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating ganglion cysts, ensuring you receive a thorough assessment and the best possible care. We will understand how the ganglion cyst is affecting your daily life and whether surgical removal is the best option for you.
A complete health assessment will be conducted to ensure you are fit for surgery. This will include blood tests and imaging studies, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans, to define the size and position of the cyst and its relation to nearby structures. Imaging is particularly important for cysts located deep within the ankle or foot, where they may not be easily visible on physical examination.
Before surgery, you will receive clear instructions to help you prepare for the procedure. This may include adjusting certain medications, fasting from midnight before your surgery (especially if general anaesthesia is planned) and following lifestyle recommendations such as stopping smoking and eating well to support healing.
During surgery
Ganglion cyst removal surgery can be done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the size and location of the cyst and your individual needs. For cysts in accessible areas, such as the wrist, local anaesthesia is often sufficient. However, deeper or larger cysts in areas like the ankle may require general anaesthesia for your comfort.
The surgery involves making an incision over the cyst. The cyst is then separated from the surrounding tissue, making sure to remove the stalk and minimise the chance of recurrence. For larger or more complex cysts, open surgery may be required with a larger incision. Throughout the procedure, great care is taken to protect nearby nerves, tendons and blood vessels.
After surgery
You will be taken to a recovery area where your vital signs and surgical site will be monitored. Post-operative swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal and are managed with pain relief medication, ice packs, and elevation of the affected limb. Applying ice packs to the affected area helps with pain and healing. Keeping the wounds clean and dry is crucial to prevent infection. Specific instructions will be provided regarding wound care and dressing changes.
You may need to limit movement initially to avoid irritation and support healing. For cysts in the foot or ankle, you may be advised to avoid putting weight on the foot for a period. For cysts in the hand or wrist, a splint may be used to temporarily immobilise the area. Gentle skin massage and stimulation, once approved, can help with nerve healing and reduce stiffness. Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore strength and flexibility, especially if larger joints are involved.
Complications and risks
While ganglion cyst removal is a minor procedure, there are potential complications and risks to consider. These include infection, permanent stiffness and nerve damage. In rare cases, the cyst may recur after removal, and there is also a risk of a reaction to the anaesthesia used during surgery. To minimise the risk of complications, it’s important to keep the surgical site clean and follow the surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care. This may include applying ice to reduce swelling, taking painkillers to manage discomfort and attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to restore joint movement and strength. By understanding the complications and risks, you can make informed decisions about your treatment options and take steps to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Follow-up care and recovery
Recovery time is usually 2-6 weeks, depending on the location of the cyst, the surgical technique used and the individual’s healing capacity. Those with more physically demanding jobs or high levels of activity may need a longer period before resuming full activities due to limited movement caused by the cyst. Follow-up appointments are important to monitor your healing progress, remove stitches if necessary and check for any signs of recurrence. Patients usually have excellent outcomes and regain full function and return to normal activities without long-term issues.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial consultation
The journey begins with an initial consultation where your symptoms, medical history and physical findings are discussed in detail to determine the best way to remove a ganglion cyst. This meeting helps to determine if surgery is necessary or if other treatments are suitable.
Treatment plan
A personalised treatment plan is created after your consultation. This takes into account the size and location of your cyst, your general health, your activity level and your personal preferences for recovery. It outlines the recommended surgical technique, anaesthesia options and post-operative care.
Pre-procedure assessment
Pre-procedure assessment is then carried out to ensure you are fit for surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging scans and a review of current medications. Your surgeon will also go over important pre-operative instructions, such as fasting guidelines and medication adjustments.
Surgery
The next step is the ganglion surgery itself, performed in a sterile and state-of-the-art environment by an experienced surgical team. The focus is not just on removing the cyst but on preserving surrounding healthy tissue, minimising scarring and promoting a smooth recovery.
Aftercare and recovery
You will be given detailed aftercare instructions specific to the site of your surgery, whether it’s your hand, wrist, foot or ankle. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure healing is progressing as expected. If necessary, physical therapy will be arranged to help you regain full use of the affected limb and to strengthen the joint after surgery.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
FAQs
Surgical removal of a ganglion cyst is worth considering if the cyst is causing pain, limiting movement or impacting your daily activities. For cysts that don’t respond to conservative treatments or that are interfering with walking, gripping or causing tingling sensations, surgical excision can provide long-term relief and improve quality of life.
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia so that you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is mild and can be managed with painkillers, ice and rest. Most patients find that the discomfort reduces significantly within the first few days after surgery.
Recovery time is usually 2-6 weeks. Most people can do light activities after a few days, but returning to high-impact activities or a manual job may take a few more weeks. Following aftercare advice and attending follow-up appointments is key to full recovery.
Medically reviewed by Mr Jonathan Larholt - Consultant Podiatric Surgeon on 29/05/2025