Abscess Treatment
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Professional Abscess Treatment & Drainage
An abscess is a painful, pus-filled pocket of infection beneath the skin that requires professional medical drainage and treatment to prevent complications. Our medical providers perform safe, sterile incision and drainage procedures with appropriate pain management and follow-up care. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
When to Seek Abscess Treatment
- Painful, swollen lump under the skin that's warm to touch
- Red, tender area that's growing larger
- White or yellow center (head) visible on the skin surface
- Fever or chills accompanying the skin infection
- Pus or drainage from the affected area
- Red streaks extending from the abscess site
- Abscess on face, hands, groin, or near joints
- Increasing pain that interferes with daily activities
- Abscess larger than half an inch in diameter
- Recurrent abscesses in the same location
- Diabetes or weakened immune system with any skin infection
How We Diagnose & Treat Abscesses
Our medical providers perform comprehensive evaluations to determine the extent of infection and the most appropriate treatment approach. We use sterile technique for incision and drainage procedures, provide effective pain management, and prescribe antibiotics when clinically indicated. Our physician-led protocols ensure safe, evidence-based care with proper wound management instructions.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Wound Care
Most abscesses begin improving within 24-48 hours after drainage, with complete healing typically occurring in 1-2 weeks depending on size and location. Keep the wound clean and dry, change dressings as instructed, and watch for signs of worsening infection such as increased redness, swelling, or fever. Return for packing removal as scheduled, usually within 2-3 days. Warm compresses applied 3-4 times daily can promote continued drainage and healing. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. However, if you're experiencing severe symptoms like high fever, rapid spreading redness, or signs of sepsis, proceed directly to the emergency room.
We use local anesthetic to numb the area before the procedure, which significantly reduces discomfort. You may feel pressure during drainage, but most patients report the relief from pressure after drainage outweighs any procedural discomfort. We prioritize your comfort throughout the treatment process.
According to current medical guidelines, simple abscesses that are completely drained often heal without antibiotics. However, our medical providers may prescribe antibiotics if you have surrounding cellulitis, fever, compromised immune system, diabetes, or if the abscess is in a high-risk location like the face or hands. We'll send prescriptions electronically to your preferred pharmacy when clinically appropriate.
Home drainage is not recommended and can lead to serious complications including incomplete drainage, spread of infection, scarring, and bloodstream infection. Professional medical drainage ensures complete evacuation of pus, proper wound care, sterile technique, and appropriate follow-up. Our medical providers have the training and equipment to treat abscesses safely and effectively.
The actual drainage procedure is typically quick once the area is properly anesthetized. Your total visit time will include check-in, evaluation, procedure, wound care instruction, and discharge planning. We focus on thorough, safe treatment rather than rushing through your care.
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, a list of current medications, and information about any drug allergies. If you have diabetes, bring your glucose meter or recent blood sugar readings. This information helps us provide the safest, most effective treatment.
If packing was placed in the wound, you'll need to return within 2-3 days for removal and wound check. Even without packing, we recommend follow-up if you notice increased pain, spreading redness, fever, or if the abscess doesn't improve within 48 hours. We provide clear instructions about warning signs and when to seek additional care.
Recurrent abscesses may indicate underlying conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa, MRSA colonization, diabetes, or immune system issues. During your visit, our medical providers will evaluate potential causes and may recommend additional testing, preventive strategies, or referral to a specialist for recurrent infections. Proper diagnosis of the underlying cause is essential for long-term management.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.