If the cyst is painful, recurrent, or interferes with hand function, surgical removal may be recommended. This procedure involves removing the cyst along with its stalk at the joint capsule or tendon sheath to reduce the risk of recurrence. It is usually performed as a day-case surgery under local or general anaesthesia.
Ganglion
Quick Summary
Ganglion Cyst Treatment | Dr. Ali Soueid
At Dr. Ali Soueid’s hand surgery clinics in Beirut, Qatar, Dubai, and London, we offer accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment — from conservative care to surgical excision.
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Dr Ali Soueid is a UK Certified & Trained Plastic Surgeon
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We only use the best safest techniques and best material on the market
Our Outcomes
We use evidence based practices to improve outcomes.
What is a Ganglion
A ganglion cyst is a benign, fluid-filled lump that typically forms near joints or tendons — most commonly on the wrist, hand, or fingers. These cysts are filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid and may vary in size or firmness. Though usually harmless, ganglions can cause discomfort, limit joint motion, or compress nearby nerves, especially if they grow or are located near sensitive structures.
Ganglion cysts often arise spontaneously and may fluctuate in size or even disappear temporarily. While some resolve on their own, others persist or cause enough pain to warrant treatment.
Common Locations of Ganglion Cysts
| Feature | Dorsal Ganglion (Back of Wrist) | Volar Ganglion (Front of Wrist) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Over the scapholunate ligament | Near the radial artery |
| Appearance | Visible bump, more noticeable | Often smaller, deeper |
| Symptoms | May cause wrist pain with movement | May cause nerve pressure or tenderness |
| Risks | May limit wrist extension | Close to blood vessels, careful with surgery |
| Treatment Approach | Observation, aspiration, or surgery | Often needs surgical removal due to location |
Causes and Risk Factors of Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts develop when synovial fluid — the lubricant inside joints and tendon sheaths — leaks out and forms a cystic sac. Although the exact cause is not always known, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing one:
Common Causes
Joint or tendon irritation: Chronic irritation may lead to overproduction of synovial fluid.
Joint capsule weakness: Small tears or defects in the capsule or sheath can allow fluid to escape.
Trauma: Previous injuries to the wrist or hand may alter joint dynamics and promote cyst formation.
Risk Factors
Age: Most common in people between 20–50 years old.
Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop ganglions.
Occupation or activity: Repetitive wrist use (e.g., typing, gymnastics, manual work) increases risk.
Arthritis: Patients with osteoarthritis or joint degeneration may develop cysts near affected joints.
History of ganglion cysts: Recurrence is possible even after treatment.
Types of
Ganglion Cysts
Symptomatic Patients
You may be a good candidate for ganglion cyst treatment if the lump causes pain, discomfort, or restricts movement, especially during daily tasks. Even small cysts can press on nearby nerves, causing tingling or weakness in the fingers or wrist.
Persistent or Growing Cysts
If the ganglion cyst has not resolved on its own after several weeks or continues to increase in size, treatment may be appropriate. Some cysts fluctuate in size but can still interfere with function or cosmetic appearance.
Uncertain Diagnosis
If imaging or examination raises doubts about the nature of the lump — particularly if it is firm, deep, or atypical in appearance — treatment or surgical excision may be recommended for diagnostic clarity and peace of mind.
Who is a good candidate?
Before undergoing Ganglion Cyst Treatment, a thorough consultation is carried out. Here’s what we evaluate:
Finger Examination
Medical History
Expectations
What are the
Benefits of Ganglion Cyst Treatment
Pain Relief
Treatment reduces pressure on nearby nerves and joints, easing discomfort during movement.
Improved Function
Restoring hand mobility allows better grip strength and performance in daily activities.
Reduced Recurrence Risk
Surgical removal lowers the chance of the cyst returning compared to aspiration alone.
Steps Towards Achieving Your Goals
In Three Easy Steps
1. Consultation
A Consultation helps you give your desires to us and helps us take a thorough history, do an examination and order investigations.
2. Procedure
The day of the procedure is a big day for the patient and we take every measure to make sure your are comfortable and safe.
3. Recovery
We will support in this essential part of your journey to make it as smooth as possible.
Preparation & Aftercare
Follow these instruction to prepare for your procedure and to have a smooth post-operative recovery.
Pre-Op
Before treatment, your doctor will assess the cyst through clinical examination or imaging (such as ultrasound). You may be advised to stop blood-thinning medications and ensure your skin is free from infection near the cyst area.
What to Avoid
Avoid applying pressure or massaging the cyst, as this may cause inflammation. Refrain from using over-the-counter needle aspiration techniques, which can increase infection risk.
Post-Op
After aspiration or surgery, keep the hand clean and dry. Limit strenuous hand movements for a few days. Your surgeon may recommend a splint and light hand exercises to support recovery and prevent stiffness.
GANGLION TREATMENT OPTIONS
Observation
In many cases, especially when the cyst is small and painless, no immediate treatment is necessary. Ganglion cysts can disappear on their own, and monitoring may be all that’s required. Regular follow-up ensures the cyst is not growing or compressing nearby structures.
Aspiration
This non-surgical option involves draining the fluid from the cyst using a needle. It is typically done in the clinic and may offer temporary relief. However, recurrence is common, especially for cysts connected to a joint or tendon sheath.
Wrist Splinting
In cases where repetitive strain contributes to cyst formation, temporary splinting or rest may help. Reducing joint activity can alleviate symptoms and reduce swelling in some patients.
What to expect
During Your Ganglion Cyst Treatment
If your ganglion cyst is being treated with aspiration, the procedure is usually done in the clinic. A fine needle is used to withdraw the fluid, and a small dressing is applied afterward. The process is quick, typically painless, and you can return to normal activities almost immediately—though recurrence is possible.
If you undergo surgical removal, it will be done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the cyst’s size and location. The surgeon will remove the cyst along with its stalk to reduce recurrence. Recovery may take a few weeks, during which you may wear a splint and need to limit wrist or hand movements. Mild swelling or discomfort is normal in the first few days, and follow-up is important to monitor healing.
Dr. Ali Soueid will guide you at every stage to ensure a smooth and effective recovery in Beirut, Doha, Dubai, or London.
Products
We Use
Our Values
Aesthetics You Trust
Trust
Aesthetics You Trust is our motto. We will treat you with respect always and provide you with the best care we can.
Do No Harm
The first rule of medical ethics is to never knowingly do something to a patient that could harm them.
Evidence Based
We only offer treatments that are backed by evidence and based on our experience. We do not follow trends.
Be Your Best
We continuously educate ourselves, attend conferences and courses to stay up to date and use the best products.
FAQ
Are ganglion cysts dangerous?
No, ganglion cysts are benign (non-cancerous). While they can be uncomfortable or unsightly, they do not spread or become cancerous. However, they can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, tingling, or weakness.
Do ganglion cysts go away on their own?
Sometimes, yes. Small cysts may resolve spontaneously without treatment, especially if they’re not causing symptoms. However, many cysts persist or return even after temporary disappearance.
Can I drain a ganglion cyst at home?
No. Attempting to pop, squeeze, or puncture a cyst at home is unsafe and increases the risk of infection, injury, or recurrence. Always seek professional medical advice.
What causes ganglion cysts to form?
They often develop due to joint irritation, repetitive use, or trauma. Fluid leaks out of the joint or tendon sheath and forms a cyst. They are common in people who use their wrists repetitively, such as typists, athletes, or musicians.
How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on examination. In some cases, an ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. Transillumination (shining light through the lump) can also help.
Is surgery the only treatment option?
Not necessarily. Small, painless cysts may not need treatment. Options include:
Observation
Aspiration (draining the fluid with a needle)
Surgical excision, especially if the cyst is painful, recurrent, or interfering with function
You can read more about ganglion cyst treatment options here.
Will the cyst come back after removal?
There is always a small risk of recurrence, even after surgical excision. However, surgery significantly reduces the chance compared to aspiration or leaving it untreated.
How long is the recovery after ganglion cyst surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the location and size of the cyst. Most patients can return to light activities within 1–2 weeks, and full recovery with strength and mobility may take 4–6 weeks.
Is the procedure done under general or local anaesthetic?
Ganglion cyst excision can often be performed under local anaesthesia as a day case. For deeper or larger cysts, or patient preference, regional or general anaesthesia may be used.
Can a ganglion cyst affect hand or wrist movement?
Yes. If the cyst is pressing on a nerve or tendon, it may cause discomfort, stiffness, or reduced range of motion. Treatment usually improves these symptoms.
