Cryosurgery

The goal at Skin Wellness Dermatology is to provide dermatological care based on specific needs. Each patient is different and is best served by treatment plans devised accordingly. Because we see the individual, we have assembled a number of dermatology services to help our patients handle their skin concerns.

Cryosurgery has been used in the medical field for the past century. In dermatology, this type of treatment can address a variety of benign skin concerns. The medical professionals at Skin Wellness Dermatology have mastered the techniques of cryosurgery, assuring our patients’ safety and comfort throughout treatment. Originally, cryosurgery was performed with a dip and touch method, using a sterile cotton tip. Today, dermatologists may apply this type of therapy using a paintbrush method, the spiral or rotary pattern, or the spot freeze technique.

A quick, convenient treatment, cryosurgery may be used in the treatment of:

• Molluscum contagiosum, or warts
• Actinic keratosis
• Seborrheic keratosis
• Solar lentigo

There are advantages to cryosurgery for the treatment of benign skin lesions, such as the length of time needed for treatment. Because there is no need for local anesthesia or special equipment, cryosurgery can be completed in just a few minutes in our comfortable treatment room. Liquid nitrogen is applied to the lesion for a short burst, freezing the skin. The freezing/thawing process may cause mild stinging or discomfort, usually lasting less than five minutes. Following treatment, the treated lesion will appear swollen. This swelling may last a few days, at which point a scab will form. In the course of a few weeks, the scab will fall off and the process will be complete. There is no need to return for suture removal, no special wound care required, and a low risk of infection with cryosurgery.

Many times, a single cryosurgery treatment is sufficient to effectively destroy a skin lesion. We will closely evaluate results from initial treatment to determine if future cryosurgery is needed for optimal results.

We understand that the appearance of your skin is crucial to your sense of confidence. Our team is dedicated to helping you find solutions for skin problems. Contact Skin Wellness Dermatology for your consultation with one of our medical professionals.