• Abscesses
(A painful collection of pus beneath the skin caused by infection)
What Is an Abscess?
An abscess is a localized collection of pus trapped beneath the skin caused by infection. The body creates pus as it fights bacteria and inflammation.
Abscesses often appear as:
- Painful swollen lumps
- Red or warm areas
- Tender bumps that may drain pus
They can occur almost anywhere on the body.
What Causes Abscesses?
Most abscesses are caused by bacteria entering the skin through:
- Small cuts or breaks
- Hair follicles
- Ingrown hairs
- Blocked oil glands
- Skin irritation or friction
Some infections are caused by staph bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)..
What Does an Abscess Feel Like?
Symptoms may include:
- Pain or throbbing
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Redness
- Pressure under the skin
- Pus drainage
Larger abscesses may also cause:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Feeling ill
How Are Abscesses Treated?
Small or early abscesses
- Warm compresses
- Monitoring
- Sometimes antibiotics
Larger or deeper abscesses
Many require:
- Incision & Drainage (I&D)
- Possible antibiotics
- Wound care follow-up
Antibiotics alone may not work well if pus is trapped beneath the skin.
What Happens During Incision & Drainage?
- The area is cleaned
- Local anesthetic is used to numb the skin
- A small opening is made
- Pus is drained
- The wound may be rinsed or packed with gauze
- A dressing is applied
The procedure usually relieves pressure and pain quickly.
Can Abscesses Leave Scars?
Yes. Deeper infections may leave:
- Scars
- Dark marks
- Firm tissue changes
Early treatment may help reduce scarring.
Pre-Op Instructions
(Before evaluation or drainage)
- Do not squeeze or attempt to drain the abscess at home
- Apply warm compresses if instructed
- Tell us if you:
- Have diabetes
- Have immune system problems
- Take blood thinners
- Have medication allergies
- Have fever or rapidly spreading redness
Arrive with clean skin and avoid applying thick ointments before your visit.
Post-Op Instructions
(After drainage or treatment)
What’s normal
- Mild soreness
- Continued drainage for 1–2 days
- Mild swelling or tenderness
Aftercare
- Keep the area clean and covered
- Change dressings as instructed
- Wash hands before and after touching the area
- Complete all prescribed antibiotics
- Avoid squeezing or picking
Packing care
Some abscesses require temporary gauze packing and follow-up visits.
Call the office if
- Fever develops or worsens
- Redness spreads
- Pain increases
- Drainage becomes excessive or foul-smelling
- You develop new abscesses