Giving an array of medical and cosmetic skin concerns, the cold shoulder with cryosurgery
Led by a Board-certified medical dermatologist, Dr. Huayi Zhang, Bluebonnet Dermatology of McKinney, Texas, shines in areas such as surgical dermatology. The advanced and specialized knowledge that Dr. Zhang has acquired supports successful treatment and a safe and comfortable experience at every step in the process of treating your medical and/or cosmetic skin concerns. Cryosurgery represents one of the most predictable, well-tolerated, efficient, cost-effective, and versatile surgical treatments to bring out the beauty of your skin and restore its health.
What is cryosurgery ?
Also known as “cryotherapy,” the “cryo” in its name refers to freezing or cold. As such, Dr. Zhang can apply cold in the form of liquid nitrogen or other agents to “freeze off” conditions such as warts, skin tags, or pre-cancers and certain cancerous lesions. This is done in a controlled and highly targeted manner for your utmost safety and comfort. It is considered to be a less invasive alternative to excision, which involves cutting out growths and lesions with surgical tools.
What can cryosurgery treat ?
Cryosurgery is usually used to freeze off AKs (actinic keratoses), “senile warts” (SKs or seborrheic keratoses), skin tags, viral warts, and some cancers (such as Basal Cell and squamous cell carcinomas).
What should I expect during treatment ?
We may use a spray, probe, or applicator to administer the liquid nitrogen. This freezing agent only makes contact with the lesion for a few seconds, depending on the type, diameter, and other factors specific to your unique needs.
What should I expect afterward ?
The treatment site may appear swollen or red — side effects that are temporary and can be managed with topical steroids. Your skin may also blister a few hours post-treatment. These effects are nothing to be concerned about and are typical. Also, the process is considered to be “low-maintenance.” Simply keep the area clean. Be careful not to pick at any scabs. You want to encourage healing and not engage in any behaviors that can interfere with the process.
Why might cryosurgery at Bluebonnet Dermatology be an attractive option ?
Since we do not need to cut the skin, cryotherapy is considered a minimally invasive option. As such, it is also predictable, safe, and low-risk. Cryosurgery may also be covered by insurance as a “medically necessary” procedure. However, It is essential to turn to a qualified dermatology practice to ensure that your skin concern is properly diagnosed. Many skin conditions resemble melanoma. And cryotherapy is not an appropriate treatment for melanoma or any lesion that could be a serious form of skin cancer. By partnering with Bluebonnet Dermatology, your diagnosis and treatment is in exceptional hands.
If you have more specific questions or would like to schedule your consultation, contact our office in McKinney, TX, at (469) 663-8838.