ELECTROSURGERY

In clinic we use the Hyfrecator 2000 device, which is a longstanding, reputable treatment tool for delivering safe and precise electrosurgical results.

Electrosurgery works by using a fine-tipped probe that delivers a controlled electrical current to the targeted lesion.

The heat generated by the current cauterises and coagulates the tissue: in other words, it causes a controlled burn, which either removes the lesion immediately or causes it to dry and fall away over a few days.

The technique allows for highly targeted treatment, ensuring surrounding healthy skin remains unaffected.

It is especially effective for small, raised, or vascular lesions, and is widely recognised for its precision and efficiency.

In clinic, you will undergo a thorough consultation and examination of your lesion to determine suitability of treatment and to discuss the best treatment options for you.

In preparation for electrosurgery treatment, the area is photographed for your medical records, cleaned and prepared. Depending on the type and size of the lesion, for comfort we will numb the area with either numbing cream, a numbing injection or both.

The electrosurgery device is then used to gently cauterise the lesion. This produces a beeping noise and does emit a plume of smoke, but this is expected and nothing to worry about.

The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number and size of lesions being treated.

Once the treatment is over the area may be covered with an ointment or a small plaster if necessary.

This very much depends on the type, size and number of lesions being treated.

In most cases, a single session is sufficient to treat small or isolated skin lesions.

However, with larger or thicker lesions, we may recommend a seccond session for optimal results.

Multiple sessions may also be recommended if we are treating an extensive area or multiple lesions, as then the treatment will need to be staged for safety and to allow you to heal in stages.

Stubborn lesions like viral warts (veruccae) especially affecting the hands and feet often require more than one session in order to start responding.

During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin and advise on the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

The treatment is not suitable for patients who have a Cardiac Pacemaker in place or who have an Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator in place, as the electrical current can interfere with your device.

In this instance we will assess whether an alternative treatment such as Cryotherapy would be a safe alternative option.

We also would advise against Cryosurgery if you have had previous attempts at treatment with this technique and there has been no response, as this means we need to explore an alternative option.

Furthermore, if dealing with a suspicious lesion, then it is recommended to obtain a tissue biopsy or undergo an excision instead so the cells can be tested for any abnormalities.

After electrosurgery, the treated area may appear slightly red or raw , and may start to form a small scab, which is part of the normal healing process.

Here's what to expect:

• Mild redness or swelling may occur and usually settles within 24–48 hours.

• Tiny scabs may form and naturally fall away within 7–10 days.

• Avoid touching, picking, or scrubbing the area while it heals.

• Apply Vaseline to the healing areas 1-2 times a day as they are healing.

• SPF should be worn daily to protect the skin and minimise the risk of pigmentation changes.

There is typically no downtime, and you can resume normal activities straight after the procedure.

We do advise however that you avoid activities that could cause too much heat, sweating and friction to the area as this may irritate the area and interfere with healing.