Cryotherapy in Cork

Cryotherapy minor surgery is a medical procedure that uses extremely cold temperatures, typically achieved with liquid nitrogen, to treat various skin conditions. It involves freezing and destroying abnormal or unwanted tissue, such as warts, skin tags, or precancerous lesions. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.

Cryotherapy is effective for a wide range of skin conditions, including:

• Warts, including plantar warts

• Skin tags

• Actinic keratosis (precancerous lesions)

• Seborrhoeic keratosis (benign skin growths)

• Solar lentigines (age or sun spots)

• Molluscum contagiosum

• Certain small skin cancers (as advised by a specialist)

It’s always best to consult our doctors to determine if cryotherapy is suitable for your condition.

Most people experience a mild stinging or burning sensation during the procedure. This discomfort is usually brief and subsides shortly after the freezing is completed. In cases where the treated area is sensitive, our doctors may use a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort.

Cryotherapy is a relatively quick procedure. Most treatments last only a few minutes, depending on the size and number of lesions being treated. You can typically return to your normal activities immediately afterwards.

After cryotherapy, the treated area may become red and swollen. A blister or scab might form as the frozen tissue dies off, which is a normal part of the healing process. Over the following days to weeks, the damaged tissue will fall away, leaving healthy skin underneath. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions provided by us to ensure proper healing.

Cryotherapy is generally safe, but some potential risks include:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or blistering

• Skin discolouration (either light or dark patches)

• Scarring (rare but possible)

• Infection (if the area is not kept clean)

We will discuss these risks with you beforehand and provide advice on minimising complications.

In some cases, a single cryotherapy session is sufficient. However, for larger or more stubborn lesions, multiple treatments may be required, spaced a few weeks apart. We will assess your condition at our clinic and recommend a tailored treatment plan.

Cryotherapy is safe for most people but may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as:

• Poor circulation or peripheral vascular disease

• Cold-related conditions like Raynaud's disease

• Severe eczema or skin sensitivity

Pregnant individuals or those with specific health concerns should consult our doctors before undergoing the procedure.

After the procedure, keep the treated area clean and dry. Avoid picking at scabs or blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection or scarring. If recommended, apply a gentle antiseptic or moisturiser. Protect the area from excessive sun exposure to avoid pigmentation changes.

In most cases, cryotherapy heals without leaving noticeable scars. However, the risk of scarring may be higher for deeper treatments or on certain areas of the body. We will aim to minimise this risk during the procedure.

Results vary depending on the condition being treated. For smaller lesions, healing and results can occur within a week or two. Larger or more stubborn growths may take several weeks to heal completely or may require repeat treatments.

Whether cryotherapy is covered by insurance depends on your provider and the reason for treatment. Procedures for cosmetic reasons, such as removing skin tags or age spots, are often not covered, while treatments for medical conditions like precancerous lesions may be. Check with your insurance provider for specific details.

Preparation is minimal. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area. Avoid applying creams, lotions, or makeup on the area to be treated. We will give you specific instructions if necessary.

Yes, cryotherapy can be performed on children, particularly for conditions like warts or molluscum contagiosum. However, the child’s age, tolerance for the procedure and the condition being treated will also be considered.