Liquid Nitrogen

 

Liquid nitrogen, also referred to as cryotherapy or cryosurgery, is a commonly used tool to remove both benign and precancerous skin growths.

How is liquid nitrogen treatment performed?

The liquid nitrogen is contained within a small canister containing a metal tip. With the press of a lever, the liquid nitrogen, which is –196°C, is lightly sprayed into the target area only. The sensation is of a very cold spray; so cold that many patients state it “burns”. The treated area turns red, swollen, darker, and crusty. Occasionally, the lesion could slightly blister. The target lesion will typically crust off after 7-14 days. 

What types of lesions is liquid nitrogen used for?

Liquid nitrogen, aka cryosurgery, is commonly used to treat:

  • Warts

  • Molluscum

  • Actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions)

  • Benign growths, especially seborrheic keratoses

  • Solar lentigos

  • Certain superficial skin cancers 

Dr. Isabela Jones is a board-certified dermatologist, Ivy-league educated dermatologist, with years of experience and expertise in performing liquid nitrogen. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with her.