Pilonidal Cyst Surgery

Pilonidal surgery is the most effective treatment for a painful skin and soft tissue infection that commonly develops in the crease of the buttocks. 

As a board-certified colorectal surgeon, Lisa Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS, of Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, has expertise in performing pilonidal surgery.     Dr. Perryman may recommend surgery when patients have recurring pilonidal disease infections or significant open wounds.

How pilonidal disease develops

Children and adults who develop pilonidal disease tend to have a body shape that includes a deep cleft in the buttocks. Ruptured hair follicles from trauma or pressure can result in chronic infection of the area, which is known as pilonidal disease.

Treating acute pilonidal infection

A painful swelling near the tailbone is often the first sign of pilonidal disease. Dr. Perryman treats an acute pilonidal abscess promptly with surgical drainage. This is an in-office procedure that provides immediate pain relief. Most patients feel much better within a few hours. Dr. Perryman may prescribe antibiotics following a drainage procedure.

Bascom cleft lift surgery

Dr. Perryman performs advanced pilonidal surgery to treat chronic pilonidal disease. Bascom cleft lift surgery is a procedure intended to cure pilonidal disease and prevent it from recurring. 

Cleft lift surgery has a low rate of complications when performed by a surgeon experienced in this technique. The surgery, performed in the operating room under general or spinal anesthesia, involves removing the affected tissue and covering the area with healthy tissue. 

Dr. Perryman reshapes the patient's cleft to a much shallower buttocks shape to remove the area of the cleft where future infections could occur. To prevent swelling, a small suction drain is placed beneath the skin. When patients return for a postoperative visit a few days after surgery, the drain is removed. 

For most patients requiring surgery, we recommend the cleft lift for best results. 

Dr. Perryman draws on her experience, expertise, and knowledge to craft an individualized treatment approach for relieving pilonidal disease. When you’re dealing with repeated pilonidal infections, surgery may be the best option.

For an evaluation, and to discuss treatment options, including pilonidal surgery, call or message our Parker, Colorado, center to schedule a visit with Dr. Perryman.