GP Services

CryoPen - Lesion Freezing

About this treatment

CryoPen is an advanced cryotherapy treatment that uses precise freezing technology to safely and effectively remove unwanted skin lesions. This innovative procedure delivers a controlled jet of nitrous oxide at extremely low temperatures directly to the target area, destroying abnormal tissue cells without the need for surgery or anaesthesia.

The treatment works by rapidly freezing the lesion, causing ice crystals to form within the cells. This process destroys the cell membrane, leading to cell death and allowing healthy skin to regenerate in its place. The CryoPen device offers unparalleled precision, targeting only the affected tissue while protecting the surrounding healthy skin.

At Prema Health, our experienced clinicians use the CryoPen system to treat a wide range of benign skin lesions quickly and comfortably. The procedure is suitable for most adults and can be performed during a convenient 30-minute appointment at our clinic. As part of our comprehensive GP Services, we serve patients across Portsmouth, Southampton, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, and the wider Hampshire area.

CryoPen treatment offers an excellent alternative to traditional surgical excision, with minimal discomfort, no scarring in most cases, and no downtime required. Most lesions require only a single treatment session, though some may need a follow-up appointment for optimal results.

Duration

30 minutes

Key Benefit

Removal of Lesion

Downtime

None

Results

Visible improvement within 2-4 weeks as lesion falls off naturally

No Waiting Times No Waiting Times

In More Detail

The CryoPen lesion freezing procedure begins with a thorough consultation and examination by one of our qualified clinicians. We will assess your lesion to confirm it is suitable for cryotherapy treatment and discuss your medical history. Once confirmed as appropriate, the treatment itself takes just a few minutes. The CryoPen applicator is held millimetres from the skin and delivers a precise stream of nitrous oxide at minus 89 degrees Celsius directly to the lesion. You may experience a mild stinging or cold sensation during the application, but this typically subsides quickly and most patients find the procedure very tolerable.

Following treatment, the frozen lesion will typically form a small blister or crust within 24-48 hours. This is a normal part of the healing process. Over the following two to four weeks, the treated area will naturally shed, revealing new healthy skin beneath. We provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing. In some cases, particularly with larger or deeper lesions, a second treatment session may be recommended after 4-6 weeks to achieve complete removal.

CryoPen treatment integrates seamlessly with our other Dermatology services and can be combined with procedures such as Mole Checks for comprehensive skin health management. Our Portsmouth clinic is easily accessible for patients throughout Hampshire, offering flexible appointment times to fit around your schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is CryoPen treatment painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort during CryoPen treatment, often described as a cold stinging sensation that lasts just a few seconds. The procedure is generally well-tolerated without anaesthesia. After treatment, there may be some mild tenderness for a day or two, but this is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

2. How many treatments will I need?

Many lesions can be successfully removed with just one CryoPen treatment session. However, larger, thicker, or deeper lesions may require a second application after 4-6 weeks to achieve complete removal. During your initial consultation, our clinician will assess your lesion and provide guidance on the likely number of treatments required for optimal results.

3. Will there be any scarring?

One of the major advantages of CryoPen treatment is that it typically leaves minimal to no scarring. The precision of the device allows targeted freezing of only the lesion itself, preserving surrounding healthy tissue. In most cases, the treated area heals completely with no visible mark. However, individual healing responses vary, and our clinician will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation based on your specific lesion type and location.

4. What should I expect after treatment?

After CryoPen treatment, the area may appear red and slightly swollen. Within 24-48 hours, a blister or crust typically forms over the treated lesion. This is a normal part of the healing process and should not be picked or scratched. The lesion will gradually dry up and fall off naturally over 2-4 weeks, revealing new healthy skin underneath. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and are available to answer any questions during your recovery.

5. Are there any side effects or risks?

CryoPen is a very safe treatment with minimal risks when performed by trained clinicians. Common temporary side effects include redness, swelling, and blister formation at the treatment site. There may be temporary changes in skin pigmentation, particularly in darker skin tones, though this usually resolves over time. Infection is rare but can be minimised by following proper aftercare instructions. We will discuss all potential risks and how to minimise them during your consultation.

Conditions Treated

CryoPen cryotherapy is effective for treating a wide variety of benign skin lesions. Common conditions we treat include warts, verrucas, skin tags, cherry angiomas, age spots, sun spots, seborrheic keratosis, and milia. The treatment is also suitable for removing benign pigmented lesions and certain types of viral lesions. Each lesion type responds differently to cryotherapy, and our experienced clinicians will determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific condition.

It is important to note that CryoPen is only used for benign lesions. Any suspicious lesions or those with characteristics that may indicate skin cancer will not be treated with cryotherapy and will require alternative management, including possible biopsy or referral to a specialist. During your consultation, our clinician will carefully examine your lesion and may recommend alternative treatments if CryoPen is not appropriate. We prioritise patient safety and ensure every lesion is properly assessed before proceeding with any treatment.

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