Dermatology

Cryotherapy

A treatment that uses extreme cold to remove skin lesions or warts.

What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to targeted skin areas to destroy abnormal or unwanted tissue. It is quick, highly effective for common skin conditions, and is performed in a dermatologist’s office with minimal preparation. The freezing process damages the abnormal cells, causing them to blister and peel off naturally, allowing healthy skin to regenerate.

This procedure helps to:

Remove warts and skin tags
Treat actinic keratosis (precancerous lesions)
Eliminate small benign growths
Improve skin appearance
Prevent progression to skin cancer

What to expect after Cryotherapy?

After treatment, the area may blister or scab before healing fully. Mild discomfort is common but temporary, often subsiding within a few days. The treated spot will go through a visible healing phase where redness, swelling, and crusting occur, but these signs gradually fade, revealing smoother skin beneath.

Redness and swelling at the site
Formation of a blister or scab
Temporary soreness or tenderness
Gradual healing over 1–2 weeks
Minimal scarring with proper care

Why is it performed?

To remove benign skin growths
To treat sun-damaged or precancerous spots
To eliminate warts or similar lesions
To provide quick, office-based removal
To reduce cosmetic concerns from growths

Risks and Considerations

Temporary blistering or crusting
Pigment changes at treated site
Infection (rare)
Mild pain during healing
Potential need for repeat treatments

Early detection is important for managing the condition and preventing further complications.

Schedule a consultation today.

FAQs

Is it painful?

You may feel a brief stinging or burning sensation during freezing, but it lasts only seconds. After treatment, the area may feel tender or mildly sore, similar to a superficial burn, but this resolves quickly with simple care.

How long does it take?

The entire procedure typically takes less than 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick, in-office treatment. Healing, however, can take 1–2 weeks depending on lesion size and depth.

Can I go home the same day?

Yes, no recovery time is usually required. You can resume normal activities immediately, although you should protect the treated area from friction or irritation.

What should I do after?

Keep the area clean, apply recommended ointments, and avoid picking at scabs to reduce scarring risk. Follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions carefully to ensure smooth healing.

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you see signs of infection such as pus, spreading redness, or increasing pain, or if the lesion does not heal within the expected time frame.

Dermatology

Doral Health & Wellness Skin Health Department

Doral Health & Wellness Dermatology offers comprehensive skin care services for all ages and skin types. Our expert dermatologists provide personalized care for various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer. We offer advanced treatments and cosmetic procedures to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin.