Electrosurgery for selected skin growths

Electrosurgery, also called diathermy or hyfrecation, passes controlled electrical energy through a medical device to create heat. A dermatologist may use that heat to dry a small blood vessel, destroy a superficial growth, or remove tissue in a carefully defined area. The exact technique depends on the lesion, its depth, its location, and whether tissue needs to be sent for examination. Examples of conditions sometimes treated include [Cherry Angioma](/conditions/cherry-angioma/), [Skin Tags](/conditions/skin-tags/), [Warts](/conditions/warts/), and [Seborrheic Keratosis](/conditions/seborrheic-keratosis/). It is not a substitute for diagnosis: a changing or uncertain lesion should be assessed before treatment.

Electrosurgery uses controlled electrical energy to treat selected superficial skin growths, with local anaesthetic and short wound care afterward.

The treated spot commonly feels tender, warm, or tight once the local anaesthetic wears off. It may form a dry crust or a small scab while the surface heals. Keep the area clean, follow the dressing instructions, and avoid picking the crust; rubbing can reopen the wound and affect the final mark. The clinician will explain when washing, exercise, swimming, shaving, or cosmetics can resume for that site.

Possible problems include bleeding, infection, a burn to nearby skin, delayed healing, a lighter or darker mark, and a raised or depressed scar. The chance and severity depend on the body area, lesion size, treatment depth, skin type, and medical history. Tell the clinician about poor wound healing, implanted electrical devices, medicines that increase bleeding, and any tendency to form thick scars. Seek prompt advice for spreading redness, worsening pain, pus, fever, or bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure.

Electrosurgery can clear a selected superficial lesion, but the outcome depends on treating the full visible tissue and on the diagnosis. Some growths can recur, and new lesions may appear elsewhere. For viral warts, treatment removes the wart rather than guaranteeing that the virus is no longer present. For cosmetic concerns such as [Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra](/conditions/dermatosis-papulosa-nigra/), [Sebaceous Hyperplasia](/conditions/sebaceous-hyperplasia/), or [Syringoma](/conditions/syringoma/), discuss the possibility of repeat treatment and pigment change.

A consultation confirms whether electrosurgery is suitable and whether another method would give a better diagnostic or cosmetic result. Treatment is usually performed in a clinic with eye protection and a sterile technique. A smoke extractor may be used because heated tissue can produce surgical plume. Ask which device is planned; an [Electrosurgical Unit](/technology/electrosurgical-unit/) can deliver different energy modes.

A dermatologist may consider electrosurgery for a clinically assessed, accessible lesion where controlled heat is appropriate. It may be discussed for [Venous Lake](/conditions/venous-lake/), [Genital Warts](/conditions/genital-warts/), or [Rhinophyma](/conditions/rhinophyma/), but the method and setting vary by site. Lesions near the eye, on mucosal skin, or with uncertain features need particularly careful planning.

The clinician examines and marks the area, cleans the skin, and gives local anaesthetic when needed. They select an electrode and energy setting, treat the target in controlled passes, and check bleeding before applying a dressing. If tissue is removed, it may be handled according to the clinician’s diagnostic plan. You receive wound-care instructions before leaving.

Tenderness is usually most noticeable early, while the surface may remain crusted until new skin forms. A small treated area often needs simple care at home, but deeper or larger treatment can take longer. The mark may continue to change in colour and texture after the surface has closed. Keep follow-up if the clinician recommends it, especially when the diagnosis or healing needs review.

Before treatment, ask how the site may look while healing, whether a sample is needed, and what warning signs require contact. Sun protection after healing can help reduce contrast between treated and untreated skin. Do not apply unapproved products to an open wound, and disclose allergies to dressings or antiseptics.

Depending on the diagnosis, alternatives may include cryotherapy, curettage, shave removal, surgical excision, laser treatment, or a prescription treatment. Each option differs in tissue sampling, healing pattern, pigment risk, and likelihood of needing more than one session. A dermatologist can match the method to the lesion and your priorities.

Choose a licensed dermatologist or appropriately trained clinician who can diagnose the lesion, explain the device and energy method, and provide wound follow-up. Bring a list of medicines, allergies, implanted devices, and previous scar or pigment reactions. For a lesion that is bleeding, rapidly changing, or uncertain, arrange assessment before requesting removal.