Incision & Drainage (I&D) for HS: What You Need to Know Before You Say Yes

If you’ve ever gone to urgent care for a painful HS flare, chances are you’ve been offered an incision and drainage (I&D). While it can provide temporary relief, it’s important to understand what this procedure actually does—and what it doesn’t do. In this video, we break down: What an incision & drainage (I&D) procedure is Why it often leads to recurrence in Hidradenitis Suppurativa The risks of repeated I&Ds, including scar tissue buildup Alternative options to ask your dermatologist about (like Kenalog injections or deroofing) How to advocate for better care during an HS flare While I&D can help relieve pressure and pain in the moment, it does not remove the underlying disease process—meaning many patients experience the same abscess returning again and again. At HS Connect, we believe patients deserve to understand their options and feel empowered to make informed decisions about their care. 👉 Explore more HS treatment and surgical options: https://hsconnect.org