Does curettage and cautery treat seborrheic keratosis?

Seborrheic keratoses are benign, rough or waxy growths that can look stuck onto the skin. Removal may be considered when one catches on clothing, becomes irritated, or is cosmetically bothersome. Curettage scrapes away the growth, while cautery treats the area underneath and helps control bleeding. A clinician should examine a changing, very dark, bleeding, or unusual lesion before removal, because not every stuck-on growth is a seborrheic keratosis. The method may not suit a thick, broad, or awkwardly positioned lesion, and the result can include a temporary wound, a scar, or altered skin colour.

Do not scratch, cut, or burn a growth yourself. During consultation, mention previous skin cancers, medicines that affect bleeding, allergies to numbing medicine, and a tendency to form raised scars or pigment changes. After removal, keep the site clean and follow the dressing instructions. Avoid picking a crust and reduce friction from clothing while the area heals. Once the surface has closed, sun protection can help limit a lasting colour difference. A new or changing growth should be examined rather than assumed to be another seborrheic keratosis.

Contact the clinic if redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or discharge increases after treatment. Seek prompt help for bleeding that continues despite gentle pressure. Arrange an assessment if a lesion changes quickly, develops an irregular appearance, or returns after removal, since the original diagnosis may need review.

Ask whether the lesion has typical features, why curettage and cautery are suitable, and whether tissue examination is needed. Ask how visible the healing mark may be and which aftercare signs should prompt a review.