Seborrheic Keratosis Removal

Seborrheic Keratosis Removal involves using techniques that physically destroy or carefully excise the superficial, abnormal epidermal cells that constitute the lesion. Since SKs typically sit on the skin surface, specialised methods are used to target the growth while preserving the underlying dermis to minimise scarring.

The most common specialised methods for effective Seborrheic Keratosis Removal include:

Cryotherapy: Controlled freezing of the seborrheic keratosis using liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold destroys the abnormal tissue, which then scabs and falls off.

Shave Excision/Curettage: The lesion is delicately shaved or scraped off the surface of the skin. This allows for potential lab examination of the removed tissue, if deemed necessary by the practitioner.

Ablative Laser Therapy (e.g., CO2 Laser): This specialised laser precisely vaporises the elevated lesion layers, offering excellent control, particularly for delicate areas or multiple lesions.

The choice of method for Seborrheic Keratosis Removal is based on the lesion’s size, depth, location, and the practitioner’s clinical judgment.

Seborrheic Keratosis Removal is classified as a higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure when involving techniques (such as cryotherapy, ablative lasers, or sharp curettage) that intentionally destroy or penetrate the skin’s surface layers. This necessitates mandatory assessment and administration by a registered health practitioner.

Seborrheic Keratosis Removal is not medically necessary, as SKs are medically harmless and non-cancerous. Removal is an entirely elective choice made for cosmetic reasons or relief from irritation. The primary risks of this specialised procedure include temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, and the formation of a scab or crust at the treatment site. Because the epidermis is intentionally disrupted, there is a risk of temporary or permanent skin pigmentation changes (hypo- or hyperpigmentation) or a subtle scar, especially if the lesion was large or deep. Patients should be aware that treatment removes existing lesions, but the procedure does not prevent the growth of new seborrheic keratoses in the future.

All higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedures utilised in Seborrheic Keratosis Removal are performed exclusively by a registered health practitioner, as our practice adheres strictly to the professional standards and guidelines set by the National Boards and Ahpra. This commitment means the practitioner’s primary duty is always to the patient, ensuring all decisions regarding your Seborrheic Keratosis Removal plan are based on clinical necessity, not financial gain.

Furthermore, every procedure will be performed by a practitioner possessing the appropriate qualifications, education, and competence relevant to the specific specialised technique (e.g., cryotherapy, laser, or curettage) being offered. We are obligated to provide you with clear, accurate, and objective information about the treatment, including the potential for complications and the risk of new lesions developing later. Finally, our practitioners are committed to proactively managing any potential conflict between the desire for financial return and their ethical and professional duty to provide the best and safest possible care for every patient undergoing Seborrheic Keratosis Removal.