Surgery·Surgery
Abscess drainage
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms under the skin because of an infection. The pus is a mixture of dead tissue, bacteria, and white blood cells. Abscess drainage is a procedure where a doctor makes a small cut in the skin to let the pus out. This helps the infection heal.
Key facts
- Abscesses are a common skin infection that often need drainage to heal.
- Taking antibiotics alone may not work because the pus blocks the medicine from reaching the bacteria.
- Drainage is usually a simple procedure done in a doctor's office or clinic.
Yes, skin abscesses are quite common. Many people develop at least one during their lifetime.
Anyone can get an abscess, but they happen more often in people with diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor hygiene, or skin conditions like eczema.