What is the treatment for a pilonidal cyst?

Depends: Depending on the size and length of time the pilonidal cyst has been present, surgery is often indicated. It could be a small office procedure for smaller conditions, or a slightly more deep surgery done under anesthesia in an operating room. Antibiotics may be able to help some, but not likely result in a permanent cure. Cysts can even recur after surgical excision for some people.

Often surgery: Cysts with few symptoms may be treated conservatively, with shaving the area free of hair, and perhaps oral antibiotics for minor swelling. However, more symptomatic cysts usually require resection. Newer approaches favor smaller incisions, often off the midline, with closure of the wound for more rapid healing. Flap closure is usually reserved for complex or recurrent disease in the U.S.

Surgery: There are numerous surgeries available. See a surgeon to discuss options.

Infected?: Abx will NOT cure a pilonidal cyst. They can help clear the infection and surrounding cellulitis that can occur when the cyst becomes infected. .... but not the cyst itself. The cyst needs to be removed if bothering you. If not bothering you can be safely watched.