The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis for cavernous mucous cysts. A local anesthetic drug is usually injected before surgery to ensure that the patient is pain-free throughout the procedure. A surgical incision is then made outside the boundaries of the cyst to remove the cyst and the mucus glands underneath it. It is important to remove the mucus glands together, otherwise the cysts tend to recur. Usually the chance of recurrence decreases dramatically after the mucus glands are removed. Post-operative sutures are usually required and are usually removed after 7-10 days. Cleaning of the mouth, such as rinsing and sterile preparation, is often required prior to surgery. Patients undergoing outpatient surgery should not have the procedure on an empty stomach, usually have breakfast, and if the procedure is done in the afternoon usually have lunch.