Does it hurt to get a cyst lanced or drained?

Getting a cyst lanced, also known as incision and drainage (I&D), involves making a small incision in the cyst and draining its contents. The procedure can cause discomfort or pain, but numbing agents such as local anesthesia or lidocaine are typically used to minimize pain during the procedure. Afterward, individuals may experience some tenderness or discomfort in the area where the cyst was drained, but this usually subsides within a few days. To manage any discomfort, the doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.