Radio-surgical excision is the most effective and aesthetically appealing procedure to remove raised skin lesions and moles. The procedure is quick and convenient with no down time.
Nevi (Moles) are a common occurrence on the skin, particularly for those with fair complexions. They can be genetic or the result of sun exposure, and are little more than deposits of skin pigmentations that form together on the top layer of the skin. The majority of these skin pigmentations will be harmless but they can be aesthetically unappealing depending on where they are located. Cosmetic radio frequency mole removal refers to the removal of skin growths and discolorations that are purely an aesthetic concern. For nevi that look a little more suspect and might prove to be something more, a punch biopsy nevi removal, shave biopsy or traditional excisional biopsy may be required. Keratoses can be either actinic (related to the sun) or seborrheic (related to the aging process) and are crusty growths that almost everyone will have at some point in their lives. Both nevi and keratoses can be removed with Radio-Surgery and there is no question that the cosmetic result is far superior to other techniques including excision and shaving without Radiosurgery.
Cosmetic radio skin lesion removal is a relatively straight forward day procedure; all that’s required is a local anesthetic injected to the excision site to ensure you remain comfortable. Typically, there is minimal disruption from your daily activities after this procedure.
Our facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Waldman, has been removing lesions and moles using the RF shaving technique with the Surgitron tool by Ellman for more than thirty years and has removed thousands of lesions during this time. In fact he is considered one of the world’s leading authorities on Radio-surgery. Based on his experience, patients feel comfortable knowing they are in safe hands with Dr. Waldman, who aims for the smoothest and even textured result each time.
Radiofrequency lesion removal is commonly used to remove skin lesions such as nevi (moles) and keratoses that protrude above the surface of the skin. This procedure utilizes a device called the Ellman-Radiosurgery electrode loop to gently shave the lesion away (layer by layer) from the surface of the skin. Any bleeding is cauterized at the same time as the device gently shaves the lesion. Radiofrequency lesion removal is the best option for evenness of skin texture, offering the doctor better control over the depth of removal which reduces the potential for scarring.
Polysporin Antibiotic ointment is applied over the treatment area to protect it during the healing process for seven to ten days. Patients can shower the same day and return to work straight away. The area treated with radio-surgery for lesion removal will remain red from one to three months on average, depending on the natural coloring of the skin (those with a fairer complexion will see a more pinkish coloring and have minimal scarring). There will be a flat wound left over from the site of the lesion removal that will heal in approximately seven to ten days*.
You should use sunscreen/sunblock daily to prevent any further sun damage from occurring. We also recommend that Polysporin antibiotic ointment be applied to the wound during the healing phase. We don’t want the treated area to dry out, but to remain hydrated to minimize scaring in the treated area. You should keep the wound covered with the Polysporin for the duration of the healing process for the best cosmetic results.
Pigmentation in the lesion may reoccur if there are hyperpigmented cells located beneath the surface of the skin. This pigmentation could possibly be seen six to eight weeks after the procedure. If this pigmentation occurs after we have provided the radiofrequency lesion removal treatment, we recommend coming in for a re-treatment of the area. It has nothing to do with the method of removal – it’s simply a matter of the skin’s pigment. If this reaction occurs after treatment, we can look into providing treatments to address this concern. We can often re-shave the lesion via radio frequency or use lasers like the Varilite to fade any remaining pigmentation.
Costs can vary depending on numerous factors such as the treatment method used, how many lesions require removal, their location, and their size. We will discuss all pricing and options with you during your first consultation. Treatment starts at $500 for the removal of one lesion with the Ellman RF shave method.
*Results will vary from person to person and with various degrees of efficacy.
“Just had a simple procedure done here this week. Got a new cosmetic set from the skincare office that seems to be reducing some redness on my face! I plan to have a surgery done in the future. Pricing is very affordable as I have been to one other practice outside of the state that had higher rates. Would definitely recommend! ”