Exploring Cryosurgery Options with Dr. Amina Bougrine at Aura Dermatologie

Dr. Bougrine often uses cryosurgery to treat the following conditions:

• Seborrheic keratoses: Seborrheic keratoses are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are harmless but can be unsightly or itchy. Cryosurgery can remove these growths safely and without scarring.
• Actinic keratoses: Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions caused by cumulated sun exposure and are commonly found in sun-exposed areas of the body. Cryosurgery effectively treats these lesions by destroying the abnormal cells and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
• Skin tags: Skin tags ares small, benign growths often found in skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. They can be easily removed with cryosurgery without leaving a scar. Other treatment methods exist and our board-certified dermatologist will counsel you on the preferred method for your needs.
• Warts: Warts are typically caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can develop on any part of the body. Cryosurgery is a common treatment for warts, as it freezes and destroys the wart-infected skin cells.
• Sebaceous hyperplasia: This common skin condition can cause small, yellow bumps usually located on the face. Although there is a risk of recurrence, cryosurgery can effectively remove these bumps without scarring.
• Skin cancer: In rare instances, cryosurgery may be utilized to treat specific forms of superficial low-risk skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in patients who are not candidates for other treatment options. The low temperatures eradicate the cancer cells and allow healing to occur from the surrounding healthy skin.

During your visit for cryosurgery with Dr. Bougrine, you can expect a detailed consultation and examination of the affected area. She will discuss your treatment options and help you determine if cryosurgery is the best option for you.

If cryosurgery is recommended, the procedure typically takes only a few minutes. Liquid nitrogen is typically applied to the affected area with a spray device, or rarely with other instruments. You may feel some discomfort or stinging during the procedure, but these are tolerable to the great majority of patients.

Afterward, the treated area may experience swelling, redness, and rarely blistering. This is a normal part of the healing process and should subside within a few days. This is typically followed by the formation of a scale or scab which will gradually peel within 1 week on the face and within 3 weeks on other parts of the bod. Following aftercare instructions will reduce the potential for side effects and complications.

Aura Dermatologie is proud to offer cryosurgery (cryotherapy) for patients in and around the Montreal area, including the surrounding communities of Laval, West Island and the South Shore, Quebec.—Please call (514) 252-3102 to request a visit with our team.