Painful Lump Treatment
Abscess Surgery & Drainage in GP Clinic
What is a Painful Lump or Abscess?
A painful lump under the skin is often due to an abscess — a pocket of infection filled with pus.
These lumps are usually red, swollen, and tender, and they can grow quickly. Some people call them “boils.”
While many think hospital admission is always necessary, most abscesses can be safely treated in a GP clinic.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Warning signs that need attention
- A red, swollen, or painful lump that is not improving
- Pus or discharge from the lump
- Fever or feeling unwell
- A lump that is growing quickly or keeps coming back
Abscesses rarely heal on their own. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you can prevent the infection from spreading or worsening.
How We Treat Abscesses in Clinic
Step-by-step procedure
- Local anaesthesia – to numb the skin so you remain comfortable.
- Small incision – to release the pus and infection.
- Cleaning – the abscess cavity is thoroughly cleaned.
- Sterile dressing – to protect the wound.
- Antibiotics – prescribed if required.
The procedure, called Incision & Drainage (I&D), usually takes less than 30 minutes.
All procedures are carried out in our operating room, equipped with sterile packs, surgical lighting, and hospital-standard instruments. Patients go home the same day.
Safe, sterile, and same-day treatment
— without the long hospital wait.
Safety & Sterility
Our clinic standards
Every abscess surgery at Paddington Medical Clinic is performed in our dedicated operating room, with:
- Hospital-grade sterilisation of all instruments
- Proper surgical draping and sterile packs
- Surgical lighting and equipment for safe procedures
- Doctor trained in minor surgery, following MOH guidelines
This ensures the same standards you would expect in a hospital, delivered conveniently in a GP clinic.
Recovery & Aftercare
What to expect
- Most patients can return to daily activities within 1–2 days after the procedure.
- Clear wound care instructions are provided, with emphasis on keeping area clean and dry.
- For larger abscesses, daily dressing changes may be required for 1–2 weeks. These can be done at our clinic, where our staff use sterile technique to minimise the risk of re-infection.
- Medical certificates (MCs) can be issued if rest is required for work or school.
Healing time varies depending on the size and depth of the abscess. Our doctors will guide you on follow-up visits to monitor progress and ensure complete recovery.
Costs & Transparency
Clear and upfront pricing
- Fees follow MOH recommended charges.
- Estimates are explained clearly before the procedure.
- Final costs usually do not vary much from estimates.
- No hidden charges. No pressure — the choice is always yours.
Why Choose Paddington Medical Clinic?
- Same-day treatment available
- All procedures performed in a dedicated operating room
- Hospital-grade sterility in a convenient clinic setting
- Experienced doctor trained in surgical procedures
- Transparent, MOH-guided fees
- Doctors who are also parents — we understand the worries of families and always take time to reassure
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is abscess surgery painful??
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the drainage. You may feel a brief sting when the numbing injection is given, but after that the area is numb. Mild soreness after the procedure is common and usually improves with proper wound care.
Do I need hospital admission for an abscess?
Not always. Many skin and soft tissue abscesses can be treated safely in a GP clinic. Only very large, deep, or complicated abscesses may require hospital admission.
How long does it take to heal?
Smaller abscesses may heal within several days, while larger abscesses may take 1–2 weeks or longer. Healing depends on the size and depth of the infection, as well as your overall health.
Do I need to come back for dressing changes?
For small abscesses, a single dressing may be enough. But for larger abscesses, daily dressing changes are often required for 1–2 weeks to allow proper drainage and healing. These are done in our operating room or treatment area, where our staff use sterile technique. Our doctors will advise you on the best aftercare plan.
Will the abscess come back?
Most abscesses heal completely once drained. However, some patients are prone to developing new abscesses in the future. If this happens, our doctors can assess possible underlying causes and recommend preventive steps.
Your Care, Our Priority
Many procedures can be done right here in our clinic — comfortably, safely, and with a GP you can trust. Learn more about Dr Lee and the procedures he offers.
Trusted hands, right here in our clinic.
Discover more about your GP.
Book Appointment with Our Doctors
Dr Lee Joon Loong
Medical Director
MBBS (Australia)
Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine
Designated Workplace Doctor (CAW)
EIMS Primary Care Physician
Certificate Course in Andrology (Men’s Health)
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