Cryosurgery

Cryotherapy / Freezing

Overview

Cryosurgery (cryotherapy) is a common dermatological procedure that uses extreme cold, typically liquid nitrogen at -196°C, to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. It is a quick, minimally invasive procedure used to treat a wide variety of benign and premalignant skin lesions. The freezing causes cell death and the treated lesion typically blisters and falls off within 1–3 weeks.

Key Symptoms

• Treatment of actinic keratoses (precancerous spots)
• Removal of warts and viral lesions
• Treatment of seborrheic keratoses
• Removal of skin tags
• Treatment of molluscum contagiosum
• Destruction of superficial basal cell carcinomas in select cases

Affected Areas

Face, Hands, Arms, Trunk, Legs, Any accessible skin surface

Care Instructions

1. A blister or scab will form at the treatment site — this is normal.
2. Keep the area clean and apply petroleum jelly or prescribed ointment.
3. Do not pick at or remove the blister or scab; let it heal naturally.
4. Mild pain, redness, and swelling are expected for 1–3 days after treatment.
5. Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed.
6. Temporary lightening or darkening of the skin at the treatment site is common and usually fades.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Prevalence: One of the most commonly performed dermatologic procedures worldwide