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Cautery

Cautery is a simple procedure that uses radiowaves to remove moles, birthmarks, and skin tags. It is performed under local anesthetic to ensure your a pleasant experience. A radiosurgery electrode is used to gently shave off the mole from the skin’s surface. After the procedure, the wound may appear pink, and it is recommended to cover it with a dressing for 24 hours. The resulting crust typically falls off within 2 to 3 weeks, and the skin gradually returns to its normal color, leaving a minimal or no scar. Radiosurgery uses an antenna to gather radiowaves and direct them back to the machine, eliminating the need for a ground plate. The antenna, which doesn’t touch the patient directly, is coated with Teflon to prevent any shocks or burns.

Benefits of Cosmetic Radiosurgery

Conditions That Can Be Treated

Cautery is used for the treatment of moles, warts, skin tags, and other skin growths. While most growths are benign, it’s important to seek professional medical advice if any growths appear suddenly or undergo dramatic changes in appearance. Removal is often quick and simple, providing reassuring cosmetic results.

The Difference Between Electrosurgery & Radiosurgery

Radiosurgery is distinct from traditional electrosurgery and other forms of electrocautery. Unlike traditional methods that use electric current to cut skin tissues, radiosurgery simultaneously cuts and coagulates tissues without applying pressure. It utilizes high-frequency radiowaves to deliver low temperatures through micro-fiber electrodes. This method minimizes heat and damage, as the tissue itself serves as the resistance instead of the electrode.

Frequently Asked Questions

During radiowave skin lump removal, a fine loop of platinum wire, as thin as a hair strand, is used to gently brush and vaporize the mole or skin tag. The wire emits radiofrequency waves, removing pigments and coagulating blood vessels without causing bleeding. The procedure is heat-free, resulting in minimal scarring.
The actual removal of skin lumps is quick, typically taking less than five minutes for a mole. Before removing any mole, our doctors will review your medical history and explain the procedure. If the areas/moles are non-cancerous, the patient can decide whether to remove them for aesthetic reasons. Some moles, like seborrheic keratosis, are benign and can be left if desired.
RF skin lump removal is a safe procedure used by surgeons in various operations. However, it may interfere with cardiac pacemakers, so patients with pacemakers should avoid the procedure. While the treatment is generally safe during breastfeeding, it is not recommended during pregnancy. Suspicious lesions will be sent for further examination to ensure they are not cancerous.
There is a theoretical risk of minor electrical shocks or burns if you were to touch another metal surface during the procedure. However, precautions are taken to ensure you are in a suitable position and not in contact with metal surfaces or objects.
After the treatment, the treated area will be raw and pink for about five days. It's important not to rub, scratch, or pick at the area. You can shower 24 hours after the procedure and use makeup after five days. Apply a thin layer of moisturizer or antibacterial ointment multiple times a day to keep the area hydrated during the first week. Afterward, you can switch to ASTRAA's Intense Recovery Cream twice a day until the skin is fully restored. Protect the treated spots from sunlight for at least eight weeks by generously applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen like ASTRAA's Complete Sun Protection. If you notice increasing redness, swelling, tenderness, or throbbing pain after the procedure, contact us immediately.
If you want to learn more about removing undesirable moles, skin tags, and skin lumps without the hassle of invasive cosmetic surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Vicki or Dr Elizabeth today. If you're unable to find the time for a consultation, you can send us photos for assessment. Our qualified staff and doctors at VIDASKIN are here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals so you can look and feel your best.

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