Compare treatment options

  Observation Aspiration Surgery
What is involved?

 Wait-and-see.

Draw the fluid out with a needle.

Surgically remove the ganglion. 
Results

Most people get used to it once they know what it is.

Returns about half the time. About 1 in 20 return. 
Advantages

Avoids risks.

Lump might go down for a little while.

Surgery will most likely get rid of the ganglion.
Disadvantages Odd looking.

Pain of the procedure.

Usually temporary.

Trade bump for a scar.

May recur and then you have a bump and a scar.

Recovery up to 12 months.

Risk of problems.

Complications  None.  Unlikely.

Initially thick and sore scar.

Very uncommon: infection, wound issue.