Ganglion Cyst Removal

Ganglion cysts are common, benign lumps that often develop around the wrist, hand, or foot. While harmless, they can become painful or limit your movement — and when they start to interfere with life, we’re here to help.

What Is a Ganglion Cyst?

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form near joints or tendons, most often on the wrist, back of the hand, fingers, or top of the foot. They’re filled with thick, jelly-like synovial fluid and can range from a small pea to a noticeable lump. Common symptoms include:

  • A firm, smooth lump near a joint
  • Pain or discomfort, especially with movement
  • Numbness or tingling if pressing on a nerve
  • Weak grip or reduced mobility in the affected area

Do I Need Treatment?

Not all ganglion cysts require removal. But you may want to consider treatment if the cyst is:

  • Causing pain
  • Restricting movement
  • Pressing on nearby nerves
  • Interfering with daily activities or sports
  • Persistent or growing in size

The NHS increasingly limits treatment for benign cysts. At Sozo, we offer fast, private care with direct access to local experienced surgeons, with fair and bespoke pricing, alongside excellent outcomes.

Treatment Options for Your Ganglion

Aspiration (Draining the Cyst)

A quick, minimally invasive outpatient option:

• The cyst is drained using a fine needle under local anaesthetic (ultrasound guidance available if needed)
• A steroid may be injected to help reduce recurrence
• You’ll be in and out within the hour

Best for: Smaller cysts or first-line treatment.

Surgical Excision

If the cyst returns, causes significant symptoms, or you prefer definitive removal:

• Procedure performed under local or regional anaesthetic
• A small incision is made to remove the cyst at its root
• Typically takes 30–45 minutes
• Performed in a clean-air surgical setting

Best for: Recurring or persistent cysts.

What Happens During the Procedure?

  • Outpatient procedure (you go home the same day)

  • Done under local or regional anaesthetic

  • Uses a small incision placed in a natural skin crease or to provide safe access to your Ganglion.

  • Takes about 30 minutes

  • Minimal post-op discomfort and fast return to function

If you’ve tried all the right things — and you’re still in pain — we’ll guide you through whether denervation is the right choice for you.

a young gymnast doing a hand stand smiling because their wrist pain is better
Expert Private Healthcare

What Recovery Looks Like

  • Return to light activity: Usually same or next day

  • Dressings: Clean, professional dressings with follow-up advice

  • Stitches: Often dissolvable; if not, removed around 10 days

  • Full recovery: Typically 2–6 weeks, depending on the cyst’s location

Some swelling, bruising, and stiffness is normal. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions — and we’re always here if you have questions.

What are the Risks?

While rare, possible risks include:

  • Minor infection (managed with antibiotics)
  • Recurrence (more common in wrist cysts)
  • Temporary stiffness or swelling
  • Nerve irritation, especially if the cyst was pressing on one

You’ll be fully informed of any risks during your consultation.

Why Choose Sozo for your Ganglion Surgery?

  • Consultant-led minor surgery with no GP referral
  • Specialist surgeons with high case volumes
  • Clean, modern surgical setting
  • Transparent, fair pricing with no hidden costs
  • Supportive aftercare and open-door follow-up policy
  • Appointments available within days

Don’t let a ganglion cyst hold you back.

Whether it’s pain, pressure, or simply peace of mind — we’re here to help. Book your consultation now and experience Sozo’s modern, honest, and personal approach to care.

Sozo aims to get people back to the activities which they enjoy