Welcome to the Inaugural Post of The Sternberg Clinic Weekly Blog!
Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating (and sometimes quirky) world of pilonidal disease and surgery. If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re curious about pilonidal care, looking for answers, or maybe just trying to figure out how to pronounce “pilonidal.” (Hint: It’s “pie-luh-nigh-dull.”)
Hi, I am Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg
For those of you who don’t know, pilonidal disease is not a “CYST” as it is commonly called. It is an infection (abscess) under the skin of the midline of the buttock cleft, termed the natal cleft. It’s not the most glamorous topic, but hey, someone’s got to be the hero of the hindquarters, right? I’ve been based in the vibrant city of San Francisco for years, where I’ve had the privilege of treating patients from all walks of life. I believe in making medical care accessible and personalized. When you’re dealing with something like pilonidal disease, you deserve a doctor and staff who know their stuff but also know how to put you and your family at ease. I feel that my practice excels in connecting with patients and their families.
Jeffrey Sternberg MD, FACS, FASCRS
So, What Is Pilonidal Disease, Anyway?
Let’s demystify it! Pilonidal disease is often misunderstood and underappreciated. It’s quite common and likely affects 1-3% of the US population under the age of 30. It most frequently affects people in their teens and 20s and most of those who have the condition have one thing in common, they have a deep buttock crack, yes, really! In the middle of the deep cleft, hair follicles rupture from repeated microtrauma and holes form in the deep, airless cleft. Hairs then insert into these holes and form an abscess (infection). There is no cyst! While traditional surgery has a high (>30%) recurrence rate, a special procedure called The Cleft Lift Procedure/Pilonidal RAF (for rotation and advancement flap) when performed by an experienced surgeon can cure the disease in nearly 100% of patients (a few need second operations).
Why Start a Blog?
I’ve started this blog because I believe in empowering my patients and the wider community with knowledge. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or just someone who’s curious, I want to make sure you have the information you need—delivered in a way that’s easy to understand and even a little entertaining.
In future posts, I’ll be covering a range of topics, such as:
- How to recognize pilonidal disease (and when to seek help).
- The latest advancements in pilonidal surgery and care.
- Tips for recovery and prevention.
- Stories from real patients (with their permission, of course!) to remind you that you’re not alone.
Let’s Bust Some Myths
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about pilonidal disease, and one of my goals is to set the record straight. For example:
- Myth: “Only people with poor hygiene get pilonidal cysts.” False! This condition has more to do with anatomy and genetics than hygiene.
- Myth: “Surgery always requires a long recovery.” Not true! Modern techniques can significantly shorten recovery time and improve outcomes.
- Myth: “It will keep coming back no matter what.” With proper treatment and care, many people can achieve a permanent resolution.
- Myth: “I will outgrow the condition with time.” Once you develop a symptomatic pilonidal condition, it rarely goes away without surgery.
A Warm Invitation – Visit our Website to Become a Patient
Whether you’re dealing with pilonidal issues, know someone who is, or are simply intrigued by the topic, I’m here to help. My goal is to make this blog a resource for everyone—a place where you can find reliable information, practical advice, and maybe even a reason to smile.
So, welcome! Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and stay tuned. Let’s turn something that can feel uncomfortable or embarrassing into something empowering and uplifting. Because when it comes to pilonidal care, you’re not alone—and I’ve got your back (or, well, the area just below it).
Cheers to better health and happier tails!
Yours truly,
Dr. Jeffrey Sternberg
Founder and CEO of The Sternberg Clinic in San Francisco
