Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to treat skin conditions like warts, actinic keratoses, and other lesions. This quick, minimally invasive procedure removes damaged tissue and promotes healthy skin renewal. Discover how cryotherapy at Wetering Medical Centre can help restore your skin’s health.

What is cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy is a treatment in which the skin is frozen with the aid of liquid nitrogen. It uses extreme cold, typically liquid nitrogen, to freeze and destroy abnormal or damaged skin tissue. It helps remove unwanted skin lesions like warts, actinic keratoses, or certain types of skin cancer, promoting the growth of healthy new skin.

When is cryotherapy used?

Cryotherapy is commonly used to treat:

• Benign skin lesions, such as warts and skin tags.
• Precancerous skin conditions, like actinic keratoses.
• Certain types of superficial skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma.
• Cosmetic concerns, including unwanted dark spots or small benign growths.

After treatment with cryotherapy

After this treatment, a blister or scab develops on the skin, which takes about 1 to 2 weeks to heal. The underlying skin has often a light or pink colour. This is new, healthy skin that will slowly obtain a normal skin tone. This ‘new’ skin must be protected from the sun for six weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cryotherapy

Is cryotherapy painful?

Cryotherapy can cause mild discomfort during the procedure, such as a stinging or burning sensation as the cold is applied. This is usually brief, and any pain typically subsides shortly after the treatment. Post-treatment, the area might feel sore or tender, similar to a minor burn.

Who should avoid cryotherapy?

People with specific medical conditions or sensitivities should avoid cryotherapy. This includes individuals with Raynaud’s disease or other circulatory issues, those with extremely sensitive skin or cold allergies, and people with conditions that impair healing, such as diabetes or immune disorders. Before treatment, the doctors at MC Wetering will consult with you whether cryotherapy is the right treatment for you.

Are there side effects of cryotherapy?

Possible side effects include temporary redness, swelling, mild pain, or changes in pigmentation, such as dark or light spots on the skin. In rare cases, scarring may occur.

Is cryotherapy safe?

Yes, cryotherapy is generally safe and has been used for decades. It is a straightforward and effective treatment for many skin conditions.

Can I resume my daily activities immediately after cryotherapy?

Yes, cryotherapy usually requires no recovery period, and you can return to your normal activities right after the procedure. However, the treated area may be sensitive, so some caution is advised.