Incision & Drainage of Abscesses
At Northmead Medical Centre, we provide incision and drainage for suitable abscesses, infected cysts and other localised skin infections. This minor procedure is performed under local anaesthetic to relieve pain, drain infection and promote healing. Following an assessment, your GP will determine whether incision and drainage is the most appropriate treatment or whether antibiotics, further investigations or specialist referral are required.
What Is an Abscess?
An abscess is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can develop anywhere on the body but most commonly occurs beneath the skin. Unlike cellulitis, which is a spreading skin infection, an abscess usually requires drainage because antibiotics alone are often insufficient once pus has formed. Prompt treatment can relieve pain, reduce the spread of infection and speed recovery.
Common Symptoms
You should arrange medical assessment if you develop:
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A painful lump beneath the skin
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Redness, swelling or warmth
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Increasing tenderness
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Pus or fluid drainage
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Fever or chills
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Difficulty moving the affected area
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An abscess that continues to enlarge
Early treatment can help prevent the infection from becoming more severe.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the size, location and severity of the infection.
Observation
Very small collections may settle with warm compresses and close monitoring.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be prescribed when there is surrounding cellulitis, fever or a spreading infection. However, antibiotics alone may not be effective if a significant collection of pus has formed.
Incision & Drainage
For most skin abscesses, incision and drainage is the most effective treatment.
The procedure allows the infected material to drain, reducing pain and allowing the infection to heal.
The Procedure
Incision and drainage is performed in our clinic under local anaesthetic.
The procedure generally involves:
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Cleaning the skin with an antiseptic solution.
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Numbing the area with local anaesthetic.
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Making a small incision to drain the pus.
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Irrigating and cleaning the cavity where appropriate.
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Applying a sterile dressing.
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Packing the wound if clinically indicated.
The procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the abscess.
Benefits of Incision & Drainage
Treatment may:
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Relieve pain and pressure
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Remove infected material
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Promote faster healing
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Reduce the risk of the infection spreading
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Lower the chance of recurrent abscess formation
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Reduce the need for more extensive surgery
Recovery & Aftercare
Following the procedure, your doctor will provide detailed wound care instructions.
Patients are generally advised to:
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Keep the wound clean and dry
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Change dressings as instructed
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Complete any prescribed antibiotics
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Attend follow-up appointments if packing or dressing changes are required
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Avoid squeezing or manipulating the wound
Healing time varies depending on the size and location of the abscess.
Possible Risks
Incision and drainage is a commonly performed minor procedure; however, potential risks include:
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Bleeding
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Bruising
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Infection
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Delayed wound healing
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Scarring
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Recurrence of the abscess
Your GP will discuss the expected benefits and potential risks before treatment.
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