Cryotherapy for Mole Removal: Is It Effective | revitalise London
Moles are a fairly common skin condition that can be uncomfortable or even problematic if they impact your looks or develop unusual symptoms. Fortunately, today’s dermatological solutions present several ways of removing moles without causing more harm than good, and cryotherapy mole removal is one of the most common methods.
Cryotherapy mole removal is a safe and effective way of treating unwanted tissue without the need for surgery. It might be familiar to many people as a treatment for warts and skin tags but it is now being used more often in the removal of moles, including those that are benign. The process includes the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the mole and make it die and then fall off.
However, is cryotherapy mole removal good for everyone? This article will look at the way the process is done, the advantages and disadvantages of the process, and if it is a good method of mole removal. We will also discover how it works in relation to other therapies and what you may have to pay for it as well as the time needed for healing.
In this article, we will discuss what cryotherapy mole removal is, what it involves, and what results to expect. Continue reading to find out why this creative treatment could be your perfect solution for getting clear and healthy skin without surgery.
How Cryotherapy Helps in Removing Moles?
Cryotherapy is an exciting method which employs the use of cold temperature to solve some of the skin issues. But how exactly does it work?
The most common treatment is cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen and can have temperatures of up to -196°C (-320°F). If we use Liquid Nitrogen on a mole, it’s going to freeze the mole and the tissue around it. This freezing process affects the moles’ cells to the extent that they are destroyed. The mole treated becomes small, forms a crust and finally disappears leaving a clean skin without any mole.
The treatment is believed to act in a way that affects the cells of the mole in one way or another. Consequently, as the mole cells freeze, ice crystal formation takes place in the cells and as a result, the cells burst and die. The body then follows up by eliminating the damaged tissue and rebuilding the skin on its own.
Is Cryotherapy Mole Removal Right For You?
Cryotherapy mole removal is not possible for all moles. This treatment is typically used for:
- Benign (non-cancerous) moles.
- Moles that are level with the skin or only a little higher than the skin.
Cryotherapy cannot be done on suspicious or cancerous moles. It is recommended that a dermatologist check your mole to see if this method may be used.
Why Is Cryotherapy Effective?
Cryotherapy is very useful in treating superficial moles, and these moles are the most common skin lesions. It’s a very simple treatment that can mostly be done in a single session with no incisions being made. The process of using liquid nitrogen helps in controlling the areas that need to be treated hence avoiding the destruction of the surrounding healthy skin.
Limitations to Consider
Cryotherapy Mole removal is efficient, yet it is not ideal for large or deep moles. At times, more than one treatment may be required to get the expected outcomes.
Cryotherapy mole removal has become an ideal treatment option because of its scientific approach and ease of use for the elimination of moles. Next, let’s dive into the next steps to make sure you understand what will happen.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide
In this article, we will discuss the entire process of cryotherapy mole removal to help you determine if it is right for you. The following is a process that will help you know what to expect when you are undergoing this treatment.
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment
The first thing to do before going for cryotherapy mole removal is to see a dermatologist or a skincare expert. At this appointment, they shall review the mole to confirm it is indeed benign and ready for cryotherapy. The professional will also ask you about your medical history, skin condition and what you want to achieve to find out if cryotherapy is the right treatment for you.
Step 2: Preparing for Treatment
When ready for treatment, the area around the mole will be scrubbed clean. This peels off any dead skin, dirty or oily layer on the skin preparing the skin for the penetration of the liquid nitrogen. Sometimes a local anaesthetic may be injected to numb the area, but many people do not even feel pain during the process.
Step 3: Liquid Nitrogen Usage
Now comes the exciting part: However, the following are the details of the actual cryotherapy treatment. A professional will then use a small applicator and apply liquid nitrogen right on the mole. The freezing process normally takes between 10-30 seconds depending on the size and depth of the mole. You may experience a tingling or burning sensation at this time, but this is okay and should not last long.
Step 4: Post-Treatment Care
All the same, after the cryotherapy mole removal treatment, the area will be covered up, and you shall be provided with guidelines on how to care for it. It is advisable not to touch the treated mole or the area around it and not to scratch it. In the following days, the mole may crust over and within a few days, the crust will peel off as the skin regenerates.
Step 5: Recovery and Follow-Up
Healing after cryotherapy mole removal is usually fast. The scab may take 1-2 weeks to heal and the new skin will appear beneath the scab. You may have some redness, swelling or even blisters and that is completely okay. The area should be shielded from the sun and should be clean at all times to prevent further problems. More often, a follow-up appointment may be arranged to assess the healing of the skin and to confirm the excision of the mole.
Now that you know how the process works, let’s look at the advantages of cryotherapy for mole removal.
Risks and Side Effects For Cryotherapy for Mole Removal
Cryotherapy mole removal is safe and efficient, but, as with any other medical procedure, has some possible complications and adverse effects. Knowing about such risks will enable you to decide whether this treatment is suitable for you.
1. Swelling and Redness
The most frequent adverse effect of cryotherapy mole removal is inflammation at the application site. This is a normal side effect of the freezing process and should disappear on its own within a few hours to a few days. Sometimes the treated area may be sore or warm and this is normal and should subside after some time without causing much pain.
2. Blistering
It is not uncommon for a blister to develop around the treated mole as the body heals. Blistering is generally painless and is a sign of the skin’s repairing process. There is also the risk of infection or scarring if the blister is popped or drained.
3. Scarring
This is so in cases where the mole was big or deep, or in cases where the right care was not taken after the procedure. The majority of patients have minimal to no scarring and if there is scarring, it is usually mild and decreases over time.
4. Changes in Skin Pigmentation
Cryotherapy mole removal also has other possible side effects, including changes in pigmentation. It is also possible that the skin in the treated area will be lighter or darker than the rest of the skin on the body. Most of these changes are transitional, but there are cases where they are definitive. Sun protection and avoiding the sun is the way to reduce the likelihood of pigmentation changes.
5. Infection
While it is not very common, infection is a possible complication of any skin treatment. To prevent infection it is recommended that the treated area should be kept clean, and should not be scratched or manipulated. If you observe symptoms of infection including reddening, discharge or pain contact your dermatologist promptly.
Cryotherapy mole removal has relatively few adverse effects and complications which are usually mild and may only require simple management. Now, let’s take a look at the effectiveness of this treatment and what patients can expect to achieve.
Cryotherapy Mole Removal Cost
Cryotherapy mole removal costs will also differ depending on the size and number of the moles you want to remove, where the clinic is located and the experience of the clinician. Here’s what you need to know about the costs involved:
Price Range
The price for cryotherapy mole removal is between £100 and £400 per session. The cost of such a service will generally depend on the size and complexity of the moles; thus, smaller and less complex moles will be cheaper than large or multiple moles. There are those that price per mole while others may price per mole but have a discount if more than one is to be removed.
Cryotherapy Mole Removal – Can it Help You?
Cryotherapy mole removal is a good choice for several people, but it is not for everyone. This is where knowing when to go for this treatment and who is most suitable for it becomes very important. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Benign Moles
Cryotherapy is best for benign moles, that is non-cancerous moles. It is safe for use on small, raised or flat moles that do not need to be biopsied for possible skin cancer. If you have a mole that is concerning to your appearance and has been diagnosed as benign, cryotherapy mole removal may be right for you.
2. Small to Medium-Sized Moles
Cryotherapy is advised to be most effective for the removal of small to medium-sized moles. Moles that are big or those that are deep-seated may not get as good results from this treatment and may need further procedures or even a different treatment option. It is wise to see a dermatologist when the mole is big or in tender parts of the body to decide on the best course of action to take.
3. Healthy Skin
The ideal candidate for cryotherapy mole removal is a person with healthy skin, which does not have many scars or is not easily infected. Cryotherapy has its side effects, and if you have a history of keloid scarring, you should tell your doctor to avoid worsening the situation.
4. Mild Cosmetic Concerns
When you’re planning for a cosmetic procedure that does not require surgery, then cryotherapy mole removal could be the solution you need. It is perfect for those who desire to get rid of those inconvenient moles in their skin but don’t want to undergo surgery. But if the mole is painful, or if one has any doubts about its cancerous nature, then a more detailed examination may be required or another treatment may be needed.
5. Patient’s Compliance to Aftercare Instructions
Cryotherapy successfully removes a mole but one must take care of the area by avoiding sun exposure and not popping the blister. If you are willing to adhere to these guidelines, the likelihood of a good and uneventful recovery will be uppermost.
Cryotherapy Mole Removal Aftercare
It is crucial to follow the correct aftercare measures after the process of cryotherapy mole removal to get the best results and avoid the worst. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should expect and how to care for the treated area after your procedure:
1. Cryotherapy for Mole Removal & Immediate Aftercare
The mole may also start to peel off and crust after the cryotherapy mole removal process is done. It can even become darker and develop a scab which is alright since the skin is repairing itself. One should avoid popping or itching the scab as this may result in the formation of a scar or even an infection.
What to Do: Keep the area clean and dry. Use mild soap and water to clean the area as gently as possible. Rinse it with clean water and then wipe it with a towel.
What to Avoid: Avoid the following: rub, scratch, or even pick at the treatment site. Do not use very close-fitting clothes that may rub against the skin.
2. Protect from Sun Exposure
The most important aspect of the aftercare process following cryotherapy of mole removal is to avoid direct exposure of the area to sunshine. Newly treated skin is much more sensitive to ultraviolet light which results in pigmentation and scars.
What to Do: If you need to go out into the sunlight you should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher on the treated area.
What to Avoid: Do not sunbathe or any way expose the treated area to sunlight for the next several weeks.
3. Complication or Infection Check
Although uncommon, infection may occur after the cryotherapy mole removal procedure. If you observe signs of inflammation, swelling, pus or warmth at the site of treatment, you should see your doctor.
What to Do: For this reason, use a topical antibiotic ointment that your doctor has recommended to apply on the affected area.
What to Avoid: Do not use chemicals or scrub the area that has been treated.
4. Healing Process
Cryotherapy for mole removal has minimal downtime and the scab that forms will usually peel off within 1-3 weeks. The area of skin beneath might be pink but it will return to normal color within the shortest time.
What to Do: It is advised to be patient as the treated area will repair itself as any other skin injury. After the mole has healed, the skin should be flat and the mole should no longer be visible.
What to Avoid: To prevent injuries do not touch the treated area often or rub it from time to time to give it time to heal.
Now let's look at some of the possible complications and dangers of cryotherapy for mole removal to help you prepare for the days after the procedure.
Considering Cryotherapy Mole Removal:
As we have discussed the advantages, disadvantages, and cost of cryotherapy mole removal let us find out whether this treatment is suitable for you. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
1. Type of Mole
Cryotherapy is the best for small and harmless moles and they are a simple and easy-to-perform procedure. If you have a mole that is raised, dark or does not have an irregular shape, this treatment may be appropriate for you. But if your mole is big, deep or has the features of skin cancer including irregular shape and colour, then you may need excision to remove it.
What to Consider: Consult with your dermatologist and describe the nature of the mole, and if cryotherapy is suitable for you.
2. Recovery Time
If you need to get rid of the mole as soon as possible and with the least downtime, then try cryotherapy mole removal. Surgical excision often results in scarring that may need stitching and is followed by a longer recovery period while cryotherapy is generally less invasive, causing little or no scarring and little downtime.
What to Consider: If you require a treatment that will enable you to get back to your daily routine after the treatment, cryotherapy would be the best solution.
3. Budget
The cost of cryotherapy mole removal is going to depend on your location and the number of moles that you are having treated. However, it is cheaper than surgical procedures; however, the cost can be cumulative if you want to remove more than one mole.
What to Consider: Check that the cost is affordable for you. Also, it is recommended to know whether your healthcare provider accepts an instalment plan or provides a discount for several treatments.
4. Aesthetic Preferences
Cryotherapy mole removal is more attractive than surgical methods because it leaves behind small scars or no scars at all for most people. However, it is crucial to understand that there may be some minor colour changes or scars after the procedure.
What to Consider: If you value less scar appearance, then cryotherapy is a great option provided you stick to the post-treatment instructions for the best outcome.
5. Long-Term Results
Cryotherapy mole removal works however it is important to know that some moles may be capable of re-growing once they have been treated. However further examination may be needed in this case. In further cases of mole removal with a higher efficiency in the long term, it may be more efficient to use surgical excision.
Final Thoughts
Therefore, cryotherapy mole removal is an efficient painless technique for the removal of small, non-cancerous skin growths without the need for a surgical procedure. If you want minimal scarring and if you’re on a tight budget, cryotherapy can be the answer. However, for the large or the suspicious ones, or if the person wants a more permanent solution, there other procedures like surgical removal can be used.
Please, always seek the advice of your healthcare provider to determine your best course of action.
Why Choose revitalise London?
At revitalise London we provide mole removal services and cryotherapy mole removal as part of our professional care. We have a panel of experienced professionals who offer professional advice on the most suitable treatment for you. We have created sophisticated healthcare facilities and always prioritized the safety of our patients to provide the best services.