Patients are advised to watch the 2 videos below for detailed explanations of how a Preauricular Ear Cyst can get infected, and how surgery is performed to resolve the problem. The colourful illustration will enable the reader to understand this condition better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : What is Preauricular Cyst?
A : It is a common benign malformation that is noted upon physical examination as small dent that is adjacent to the
external ear. Preauricular cyst is formed when there incomplete or defective fusions of the six hillocks of the auditory. It appears unilaterally but there are about 25% to 50% cases being bilateral.
Q : What are the symptoms of Preauricular Cyst?
A : Common symptoms may include recurrent infections with discharge from the preauricular sinus pit, abscess formation in
front of the pinna, cellulitis, etc.
Q : What are the sites of involvement of preauricular cyst?
A : The sites of involvement includes lobule, superior and anterior side of the auricle, along the posterior surface of the
helix margin and most commonly, the anterior side of the margin of the ascending limb of helix.
Q : What are the complications of preauricular sinus?
A : Infection is usually the predominant complication of preauricular sinus, others may include abscess formation.
Q : What are the treatment options available for treating preauricular cyst?
A : During the acute phase of infection, antibiotics are given to act against the pathogen that is the cause for
preauricular cyst. However, when there is abscess formation, a surgical incision and drainage will be done.
Q : What are the chances that the problem will reoccur after surgery?
A : Recurrent or persistent infection after surgery may be due to the incomplete removal of the sinus tract or inadequate
removal of the mass.
Q : How long do I have to stay in hospital after surgery?
A : It will be done as a day surgery therefore it is not necessary to stay in hospital. The surgery will be done usually in the morning and after a few hours of observation in the Day ward, you will discharged from the hospital.
Request to stay overnight in the hospital for recovery could also considered.
Q : Will my surgery be under general or local anesthesia?
A : Most excisions are done under general anesthesia for the comfort of the patient. However, local anesthesia could also be
arranged if the patient has health condition that is deemed unfit to go under general anaethesia.
Q : Will I be able to use Medisave for my surgery? (For Singaporean/Permanent Residents only)
A : Yes, Medisave could be used but it is subjected to a cap, stipulated by the CPF board. Please ask our staff on the
amount that could be claimed from Medisave for your surgery.
Q : Will my insurance pay for my whole surgery?
A : Depends on the type of insurance that you have. It is advisable that you check with your insurer prior to the surgery.
Q : What is the estimated cost of my surgery?
A : For every surgery, there will be 3 incurred components – surgeon, anesthetist fee and operating theatre charges/recovery
room/ medication used for the surgery/ medication charges. These charges will depend on the complexity of the surgery.
The doctor will be able to advise you on the estimated charges for your surgery after the physical examination.
Q : What should I do or take note before my surgery?
A : Depends on the type of surgery, you may be asked to stop all blood thinners such as vitamin E, fish oil which could
affect blood clotting especially if they have been taken on a long term and should not be taken 7 days before surgery.
Also, do inform us if you are having a fever as the surgery might be postponed due to the condition. Once you confirm
your surgery date, our staff would brief you on the pre and post surgery procedures.
Q : Do I have to fast before the surgery?
A : Yes, fasting is required before surgery. Adult patient must abstain from food/water for 6 hours before surgery and kid
patient must not drink/eat for 4 hours before surgery.
Q : When will I be able to resume my usual activities after surgery?
A : Most of my patients are able to return to work/school on Day 2 after surgery. Recovery varies from patient to patient.
Q : How long will my surgery takes?
A : This form of surgery will usually take about 45minutes.
Q : Where will the incision be made? Will the incision be visible after the surgery?
A : The incision to be made will depend on the location of the cyst. The wound will recover the wound will not be visible
over time.
Q : Will there be stitches to remove after the surgery?
A : There may be stitches to remove after the surgery, depending on the type of stitches used during the procedure.
Q : Is there any food that I should avoid after the surgery?
A : You could continue with your usual diet. Just remember to keep your wound dry. This is to assist your wound to recover
faster.
For International Patients
Q : How long do I have to stay in Singapore?
A : In most cases, the surgery will be done as a day surgery. You are advised to remain in Singapore for 5 days after the
surgery.
Q : Which are the hotels which are near to your hospital?
A : As our hospital is located in the heart of the city, there are many convenient hotels in this location. We have compiled
a list of accommodation that are near our hospital. We could provide you with this list if required.
Parkway Patient Assistance Centre (Ppac) could assist patient to book accommodation at Parkway Health corporate rate if
required. Just email: ppac@parkway.sg and let them know you are here to consult our doctor and they would assist in the
hotel booking
Q : Will there be any post surgery care that I need to follow-up?
A : Post surgery, an appointment will be given to you to come back to consult the doctor. He will examine you and check the
progress of the wound. International patients who are returning to their home country for follow-up treatment, a medical
report could be provided to your local doctor.
Q : Is the fee the same for foreigners as for locals?
A : There is no surcharge on international patients. Our charges are based on the length of consultation and the complexity
of each procedure