Cryotherapy and Liquid Nitrogen Treatment
A treatment that starts with the right assessment
Cryotherapy can be an effective option for certain skin lesions. At Skinscape 360, any discussion of liquid nitrogen treatment starts with a proper assessment from a specialist so you know it’s the right approach before anything happens.
Cryotherapy and Liquid Nitrogen Treatment
A treatment that starts with the right assessment
Cryotherapy can be an effective option for certain skin lesions. At Skinscape 360, any discussion of liquid nitrogen treatment starts with a proper assessment from a specialist so you know it’s the right approach before anything happens.
What Is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy, also known as liquid nitrogen treatment, uses extremely cold liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy a lesion. It’s generally used on small, superficial lesions, and treatment itself usually only takes a matter of seconds per lesion.
It’s one of several options a skin specialist may consider once a lesion has been properly assessed – alongside other approaches depending on what’s actually needed.
Cryotherapy Benefits
For the right type of lesion, cryotherapy offers a few advantages:
- It’s quick, and can often be discussed as part of a wider consultation appointment.
- It doesn’t require stitches or an extended recovery period.
- It’s a well-established, widely used treatment option for suitable superficial lesions.
Whether cryotherapy is the right choice for you depends on the type of lesion, its size, and its location – something your skin specialist will assess directly rather than assume in advance.
What to Expect
If cryotherapy is recommended for you, your skin specialist will explain what the treatment involves, including how the area may look and feel while it heals. Aftercare guidance will be specific to your treatment, but generally involves keeping the area clean and protected while it recovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our FAQ’s for cryotherapy are listed below. We’re based in Auckland but can discuss any of this with you over the phone if you require more information.
How cold is liquid nitrogen?
Liquid nitrogen used in cryotherapy is around -196°C. Despite how cold that sounds, the treatment itself is generally well tolerated, with some mild stinging during the application.
How long does cryotherapy take to work?
Timeframes vary depending on the lesion, but a treated area will typically blister within a day or so, then develop a crust over the following days. The area usually heals over the following week as new skin forms underneath.
How much does cryotherapy cost?
Cost depends on the number and type of lesions being treated. Your skin specialist can give you an accurate quote once they’ve assessed the area in person.
What are the side effects of liquid nitrogen for skin cancer?
The treated area commonly blisters and may crust over in the days following treatment. There’s a small chance of scarring or changes in skin colour at the treatment site, which your skin specialist will discuss with you beforehand based on your specific situation.
Does skin go back to normal after cryotherapy?
In many cases, the skin heals well with minimal visible change. There’s a small possibility of a faint mark or lighter patch of skin at the treated site once healing is complete. Your skin specialist can talk you through what to expect for your specific lesion.
Book Your Appointment
If you’ve got a lesion you’re wondering about, start with a proper assessment from a specialist dermatologist at Skinscape 360 in Takapuna, Auckland today.