My 16 yr old son discovered a bump. Our family dr showed us it was actually an abscess that was quite deep and draining.
We saw a general surgeon who told us its not an emergency and we can schedule surgery anytime but plan for 1 month recovery. During the next year we saw many different types of drs to get second opinions and learn about pilonidal cysts/abscess. I honestly wasn’t comfortable with the general surgeon but didn’t feel like I had any other options. I tried to schedule surgery with him but he didn’t want to do it because a previous patient wasn’t healing from a similar surgery.
He referred my son to a Plastic Surgeon at a major teaching hospital. The Drs were absolutely WONDERFUL! I knew we were at the right place with the right drs. My son was scheduled for out-patient surgery but the drs decided to keep him for 3 days since he had a VAC and JP drain. The surgery was 2 hrs long. The 1st hr was performed by a Colon Rectal dr that removed the abscess. The 2nd half of the surgery was performed by the plastic surgeon.
When my son came home I had to make sure his closed incision was kept clean and free of hair for weeks. He avoided sitting for long periods of time for a few weeks. Stitches & staples for removed within 2 weeks. The doctors were VERY pleased with his healing. A month after surgery my son got his driver’s license and enjoyed a few days at the beach (no swimming).
He started school on time 6 weeks later with no complications. We learned he has 2 uncles with the condition so its hereditary. My advice for anyone going through this is to search out a Plastic Surgeon & Colon Rectal SPECIALISTs. A teaching hospital is also a good choice.
I hope our experience helps someone. Take care!