Seborrheic Keratosis: Electrocautery Treatment
Topic Overview
Electrocautery is the use of a low-voltage electrical charge to burn
off a growth. The electrical charge travels through the tip of a needle to the
growth. It can be an effective way to remove a
seborrheic keratosis. But it is not effective for
removing large numbers of keratoses.
This procedure usually can be done in your doctor's office. An
injection of a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) should help control pain. Healing usually takes 2 to 4
weeks, depending on the size of the treated area.
Electrocautery can leave a scar and may permanently lighten dark
skin.
Credits
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
|
Last Revised
|
January 22, 2013 |
Last Revised:
January 22, 2013