Cryotherapy  or Cryosurgery is a highly effective and safe procedure that is used to freeze and destroy benign skin lesions.

It uses liquefied nitrous oxide to destroy the tissue by freezing the cell fluid which in turn forms ice shards that rupture the cell membrane in turn destroying the cell and the lesion.

Cryotherapy is beneficial as it is quicker than than other treatments and patients can be in and out in minutes. It requires no anaesthesia and has minimal scaring. There are no limitations on activities (except protecting the area from damage or abrasion) and patients can return to normal activities after treatment (s).

Cryptherapy can treat the following skin lesions:

Skin tags

Warts

Verruca

Pigmented spots

Cherry angiomas

Sun spots

Seborrheic keratoses

Can anyone have the treatment?

Yes. However, skin types and location should be considered carefully prior to treatment.

Can children have Cryotherapy treatments?

Yes. However parental consent is required.

Is the treatment painful?

At a penetration rate of 1mm per per 5 seconds, the ice will reach the caudal extent of the lesion after a given amount of time related to the depth of the lesion. From that moment, the patient will experience a pain sensation. There might be a little residual stinging for a few minutes after treatment.

What if the blister pops?

If the blister pops, the use of an antibiotic cleaning solution and ointment is recommended. Covering the area with a plaster will promote healing.

What follow-up is necessary?

Follow-up should be scheduled in 2 week intervals to observe results and for further sessions if required.