Procedure — skin
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a procedure that is also known as cold therapy, and uses very low temperatures within its treatment. At Reshape & Restore we apply cryotherapy to various skin irregularities or lesions in order to remove them from the skin’s surface.
Cryotherapy is often most effective when administered to: warts, actinic keratosis (caused by sun damage), seborrheic keratosis and other superficial lesions. This procedure can also be used on basal cell carcinoma (a low grade skin cancer) and can remove the lesion without leaving a prominent looking wound.
Cryotherapy is a procedure that is also known as cold therapy, and uses very low temperatures within its treatment. At Reshape & Restore we apply cryotherapy to various skin irregularities or lesions in order to remove them from the skin’s surface.
Cryotherapy is often most effective when administered to: warts, actinic keratosis (caused by sun damage), seborrheic keratosis and other superficial lesions. This procedure can also be used on basal cell carcinoma (a low grade skin cancer) and can remove the lesion without leaving a prominent looking wound.
At a Glance
Duration
Discussed at consultation
Type Of Anaesthetic
May not be necessary
Return To Work (job dependent)
Next day
Day Case / Overnight
Day case
Bra / Garment To Be Worn For
Not needed
Return To Gym
Next day
In-depth Procedure Information
The Consultation
The type of lesion you have will be assessed at the consultation so the most suitable approach to removing it can be discussed. We will also look at any underlying causes for the lesion and evaluate the reasons why you want to undergo this procedure. The consultation is a good opportunity for you to gain a full understanding of what is involved in cryotherapy and the type of results that are achievable for you.
Reshape & Restore are empathetic towards a patient’s need for improving the way they look. Understanding that to remove a lesion from the skin’s surface may be for aesthetic reasons, as well as for comfort or for improved health.
The Procedure
The cryotherapy procedure usually uses liquid nitrogen. This is applied directly to the lesion with a metal probe, and not the area that surrounds it. The extremely low temperatures of liquid nitrogen will work very rapidly and will freeze the skin and tissues almost immediately. Cryotherapy can usually be carried out within minutes, but the total duration of the procedure will depend on the size of the area that is to be treated.
By freezing the tissues it cuts off the blood supply to the lesion and will therefore cease to survive. Depending on the size and type of lesion, the process may need to be repeated. This may be done immediately or during a separate treatment or series of treatments, performed at separate intervals.
Aftercare & Results
The frozen lesion will immediately turn white as it freezes, however it will also thaw within a few minutes. The lesion will develop a scab on its surface, which will usually have fallen off within two weeks. The actual procedure is often tolerated well by most patients, however it can cause some slight discomfort while the liquid nitrogen is being applied. If any sensitivity continues following the procedure, this can be managed with paracetamol and has usually settled within 24 hours. Redness and swelling may also occur after the procedure; a normal effect that should disappear within a few days. In some cases scabbing is accompanied by some blistering which can easily be treated by the team at Reshape & Restore.
Removing a lesion from the skin can help to create a smoother, more even surface. Scarring does not always develop so the skin’s tone is not always affected. Confidence can be restored when a more pleasing appearance is created, as well as improving physical comfort and eliminating irritation.
FAQ's
Cryotherapy can produce successful results when addressing: warts, actinic keratosis (caused by sun damage), seborrheic keratosis and other superficial lesions. Undergoing the procedure can help to put an end to concerns surrounding appearance, physical discomfort and irritation. The consultation will determine if your concerns make you a suitable candidate for this procedure and it is important to understand what outcome is likely for you.
Cryotherapy is safe when carried out by a trained and qualified medical practitioner such as: GP, dermatologist or nurse practitioner. As leading consultant plastic surgeons, Reshape & Restore’s practitioners are highly skilled and trained. We will ensure that every step is taken to maintain your welfare throughout the entire process.
Side effects are usually minor and are only experienced temporarily. A scab will form as a result of freezing the lesion, which should be allowed to fall off on its own. In less common cases, scarring, skin discolouration and numbness may be experienced, but these too, should only occur temporarily. If symptoms continue, you can speak with the team.
As cryotherapy is a relatively simple procedure, there are not usually many special instructions to have to follow in preparation for the treatment. Your consultation will give a good understanding of what to expect and our team are very supportive of your individual needs.
Prices From
£100
Our treatments are not off the peg but tailor made, bespoke treatments that vary from person to person. The above prices act as a guide in the standard or average case. The actual cost of your treatment may be less or more and will be confirmed after your consultation.
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