The Bascom cleft lift, also known as the Bascom II procedure, is a reconstructive surgical technique designed to permanently alter the anatomy of the natal cleft — the deep groove between the buttocks where pilonidal sinus disease originates. Unlike simple excision procedures that remove the sinus but leave the cleft intact, the Bascom cleft lift flattens and reshapes the cleft, eliminating the moist, hair-trapping environment that causes pilonidal disease in the first place.

Developed by Dr. John Bascom in the United States, this procedure has become one of the most effective long-term solutions for pilonidal sinus disease, particularly for patients with recurrent disease or those who have failed previous surgeries. Dr. Adarsh M. Patil has extensive experience performing the Bascom cleft lift and has helped hundreds of patients in Bangalore achieve lasting relief from this condition.

How the Bascom Cleft Lift Works

The fundamental principle of the Bascom cleft lift is to move the surgical wound away from the midline of the natal cleft. This is achieved by excising a crescent-shaped piece of skin from one side of the cleft and advancing the remaining skin to flatten the cleft. The result is a shallower, drier natal cleft where hair cannot accumulate and re-enter the skin.

The procedure addresses the root cause of pilonidal disease rather than just treating the symptoms. By changing the shape of the cleft, the surgeon eliminates the anatomical conditions that allow hair to penetrate the skin and create new sinus tracts. This is why the Bascom cleft lift achieves significantly lower recurrence rates compared to simple excision procedures.

Benefits of the Bascom Procedure

Very low recurrence rate (less than 5% in most studies)
Addresses the root cause — the deep natal cleft anatomy
Ideal for recurrent cases after failed previous surgery
Off-midline wound placement promotes faster healing
Reduced risk of wound breakdown compared to midline closure
Suitable for complex, multi-tract sinuses

Recovery Timeline

Day 1–3

Rest at home. Discomfort managed with prescribed painkillers. Keep wound dry.

Week 1

Wound check with Dr. Patil. Avoid prolonged sitting. Light walking encouraged.

Week 2

Gradual return to light activities. Most patients resume desk work.

Week 3–4

Increasing activity. Follow-up wound assessment.

Week 6+

Full recovery. Return to all activities including exercise.

Cost of Bascom Procedure in Bangalore

The cost of the Bascom cleft lift procedure in Bangalore typically ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹1,20,000 depending on complexity, anaesthesia type, and hospital stay. Most health insurance plans cover pilonidal sinus surgery. EMI options are available for 3, 6, and 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bascom procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is manageable with prescribed medications and typically resolves within 1–2 weeks.

What is the recurrence rate?

The Bascom cleft lift achieves recurrence rates of less than 5% in most published studies, making it one of the most effective procedures for preventing recurrence.

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes depending on the extent of disease and complexity of reconstruction.

Can I have this if I've had previous pilonidal surgery?

Yes. The Bascom cleft lift is specifically designed for recurrent cases and is often the best option for patients who have had previous failed surgeries.

Dr Adarsh M Patil

Medical Reviewer

Chief Author & Medical Editor

Dr Adarsh M. Patil, MS, FMAS | Karnataka Medical Council Registration: 53728 | 25+ Years Experience

Last Reviewed: September 22, 2026

About the Medical Reviewer: Dr Adarsh M. Patil is a Bengaluru-based surgeon with a focus on pilonidal sinus care. Pages that carry this panel are reviewed for patient-facing clarity and are updated when clinical information changes. Website information supports, but never replaces, an individual consultation.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this website is for patient education and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment plan. Pages carrying a medical reviewer panel are reviewed by Dr Adarsh M. Patil for patient-facing clarity.

Important: Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions. The content on this website does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you experience severe symptoms or medical emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or emergency room.

Content disclosure: Some website drafts may be prepared with writing assistance and then edited for patient-facing clarity. Do not rely on website content alone to make medical decisions; discuss your own symptoms and treatment suitability during a consultation.

Medical reviewer: Dr Adarsh M. Patil, MS, FMAS | KMC Registration: 53728 | Last Updated: September 22, 2026