Incision and Drainage: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Incision and Drainage?
An emergency medicine doctor, a general surgeon, or a dermatologist (a skin doctor) can drain a skin abscess. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Incision and drainage is a small operation that makes a cut in the skin so pus can drain. The focus here is draining a skin abscess.
A skin abscess is a painful lump on the skin that contains pus. It happens when an infection causes pus to collect in the skin.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A skin abscess may need to be drained to get rid of the pus. The treatment depends on what type of abscess you have.
How to prepare
Your provider can diagnose a skin abscess by looking at the area. Fluid from the sore may be sent to a lab for a culture, a test that can help find the cause of the infection.
These steps may help before you are seen.
- Apply moist heat, such as a warm compress, to help the abscess drain and heal faster.
- Get medical advice if you have a lump and a weakened immune system or a long-term condition such as diabetes.
What happens during it
Your provider may cut open the abscess and drain it. Numbing medicine is put on or into your skin first. Packing material may be left in the wound to help it heal.
Recovery
You may need to take antibiotics by mouth to control the infection. You may also be given antibiotics after the surgery if the abscess is infected.
MRSA is a type of staph germ that can be resistant to several antibiotics. If you have MRSA or another staph infection, follow instructions for self-care at home.
Contact your provider right away if you develop new symptoms during or after treatment of a skin abscess. Most skin abscesses can be cured with proper treatment.
Risks and side effects
Complications that can occur from an abscess include the following.
- The infection can spread in the same area.
- The infection can spread into the blood and throughout the body.
- Tissue can die, which is called gangrene.
Ask for an urgent appointment with your provider if the lump is painful, red or hot, or you feel hot, cold or shivery. Also ask for one if swelling or redness is spreading away from the lump.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, confusion or another sudden change in mental state, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A primary care doctor can check what could be causing the lump and if you need treatment. An emergency medicine doctor, a general surgeon, or a dermatologist can drain a skin abscess.
Common questions
Does draining an abscess hurt?
You may be given a local anesthetic so you do not feel any pain when the abscess is drained.
Can I squeeze or pop the abscess myself?
No, do not push and squeeze on the abscess. Do not pick at or pop the bump or sore. Cover the area with clean, dry bandages until you can see a health care provider.
Will I need antibiotics?
You may be given antibiotics after the surgery if the abscess is infected. Smaller abscesses that do not contain much pus may be treated with antibiotics instead of surgery.
Can a skin abscess go away without being drained?
Yes, some skin abscesses go away by themselves. You may still need to get treatment from a doctor.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- NHS - Skin abscess
- MedlinePlus - Skin abscess
- CDC - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Basics
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
