Do you find yourself having moles on your body that either appear out of nowhere or have begun to change shape? If so, then it’s time to come in and get them looked at. There’s no harm in getting various moles examined. Rather, what can be harmful is not doing anything about these moles or other marks on your body.
When you come in for your appointment with Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics, we will examine your skin and determine the best course of action for you. One of the most effective skin tag-removal options that we offer is radiofrequency (RF) excision. If we decide that RF excision is the most appropriate method of removal for you, then understanding the process and what to expect after your treatment is very important in your healing journey.
What Is RF Excision?
RF excision is a non-surgical approach to removing benign, superficial skin tags and moles. At Dermacare San Diego, we use the Ellman Surgitron® radiofrequency device. This device uses heat energy to cut or clot the skin cells and blood vessels. This method is quick and accurate, and it offers a quicker recovery period than other mole-removal methods. The most common treatment areas include the face, armpits, breasts, neck, and hands.
Keep the Wound Dry
You will likely have a BAND-AID® placed over the wound after your treatment. It is important that you keep the bandage there for two to three days. Additionally, you need to make sure to keep the wound dry; however, the area should not dry out and become crusty. During your appointment, you will be given healing ointment or cream to apply to the wound, which will help with the healing process.
Manage Any Pain
Most patients do not report pain with RF excision. Almost all of the lesions that are removed are numbed beforehand, so the pain should be very minimal, if experienced at all. If pain relief is needed, it is important that you avoid aspirin and non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen), as they can cause bleeding.
Stay Out of the Sun
Limiting sun exposure is also crucial when going through the wound-healing process after RF exicsion. Keeping the treatment site(s) covered and out of the sun as much as possible will protect the new, fresh skin and can potentially prevent any noticeable scars from forming. You may apply a silicone gel over the wound and then cover it with sunscreen, if you cannot avoid the sun. The use of sunscreen or other sun protectants is always recommended anytime you are out in the sun.
During your consultation and appointment, you will be given aftercare treatment guidelines specific to you and your treatment. These instructions should be followed thoroughly to achieve the desired results and experience full healing. Do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions before, during, or after your RF excision procedure.
For more information about RF excision skin tightening, please call Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics. If you are in San Diego, please call 858-230-8040. If you are in Carlsbad, please call 760-206-8926. You may also fill out our online contact form.