Medical Cryotherapy in Burnaby
Liquid nitrogen treatment for benign skin lesions
Medical cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove certain benign skin lesions such as skin tags and warts. A physician examines each lesion first to decide whether cryotherapy is appropriate.
- Seconds
- Freezing Time per Lesion
- Physician
- Examines First
- 7–14 days
- Typical Scab Healing
- Seconds
- Freezing Time per Lesion
- Physician
- Examines First
- 7–14 days
- Typical Scab Healing
What Is Medical Cryotherapy?
Medical cryotherapy applies liquid nitrogen at very low temperature to a targeted skin lesion, freezing and destroying the abnormal cells without cutting or stitches. At Skin Art MD in Burnaby, a physician examines the lesion first and decides whether cryotherapy is appropriate.
After treatment the lesion typically forms a scab that falls off as the skin heals, revealing new skin underneath. Whether a lesion can be treated this way depends on what it is, which is why examination comes first.
Versatile Treatment
Commonly used for skin tags, warts, seborrheic keratosis and some sun spots, when a physician confirms the lesion is suitable.
Precision Application
Precision spray tips or probes are used to target the lesion while limiting the effect on surrounding skin.
Healing at Home
The treated lesion typically forms a scab that falls off as the skin heals.
How Does Cryotherapy Work?
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperature (-196°C) to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells.
Cell Freezing
Liquid nitrogen rapidly freezes the water inside abnormal cells, causing ice crystals to form and rupture cell membranes.
Cell Death
The frozen cells die, while the effect on surrounding tissue is limited by controlled application.
Natural Removal
The body clears the treated cells, and the lesion forms a scab that typically falls off within 7–14 days.
Healing
New skin replaces the treated area. Marks such as temporary redness or lighter spots can occur.
Which Lesions Is Cryotherapy Considered For?
Cryotherapy is considered for certain benign skin lesions after a physician assessment. Lesions that need diagnosis come first.
Often Discussed For
- +Individuals with skin tags, warts, or seborrheic keratosis
- +Those with sun spots or age spots
- +People seeking non-surgical removal of benign lesions
- +People who want a quick procedure with a short recovery
- +Individuals with multiple small lesions that can be treated in one session
May Not Be Suitable
- –Pregnant or breastfeeding patients without medical clearance
- –Individuals with active skin infections or open wounds
- –Those with cold urticaria (allergy to cold)
- –People with a weakened immune system without medical approval
- –Suspected malignant lesions (these need assessment and biopsy first)
Physician-Led Assessment
Removing a spot starts with knowing what it is.
Examination First
Some spots need further assessment. A physician examines each lesion and treats with cryotherapy only those considered suitable.
Careful Technique
A precise technique aims to limit the effect on surrounding tissue, although lighter spots or scarring can still occur.
Efficient
Treat multiple lesions in a single short visit.
Medical Equipment
We use a medical liquid nitrogen delivery system for controlled application.
Which Lesions Can Be Treated?
Cryotherapy is used for certain benign growths on the face and body, after assessment.
Skin Tags (Acrochordon)
Common on neck, armpits, and eyelids.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Brown, waxy, 'stuck-on' growths often called 'barnacles of aging'.
Warts (Verruca)
Common viral skin growths, often on the hands or feet.
Sun Spots
Flat brown spots related to sun exposure, when a physician confirms they are benign.
Actinic Keratosis
Rough, scaly patches that can be pre-cancerous. These need physician assessment.
What Happens at a Cryotherapy Visit?
Many visits are short, and the lesion is assessed before anything is treated.
Pre-Treatment
No special preparation needed
Tell your physician about any medications or skin conditions
Avoid applying creams or makeup to the treatment area on the day
Arrive 10 minutes early for paperwork
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
During Treatment
Medical Assessment
A physician examines the lesion to decide whether it is suitable for cryotherapy before treating. Lesions that need further assessment are not treated.
Freezing
Liquid nitrogen is sprayed or applied. You will feel cold followed by a brief stinging or burning sensation.
Recovery Period
The treated area may turn white and can form a small blister. This is a normal part of healing.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
You receive aftercare instructions from our team.
After Treatment
Keep the area clean and dry
Avoid picking or scratching the treated area
Apply gentle moisturizer if needed
Protect from sun exposure during healing
The scab typically falls off in 7–14 days
**Results may vary. Individual results depend on the size, location, and type of lesion treated.
Cryotherapy in Burnaby: Common Questions
Does cryotherapy hurt?+
It is generally well tolerated. You feel cold, then a stinging sensation that lasts a few minutes. Anesthesia is usually not needed.
Will it leave a scar?+
Scarring is possible but less likely than with surgical excision. A small lighter spot (hypopigmentation) can sometimes remain, which usually fades over time.
How long does it take to heal?+
For most skin tags and age spots, the crust typically falls off in about 7–10 days on the face and 10–14 days on the body. Warts may need a second treatment.
Is it covered by MSP (Medical Services Plan)?+
Cosmetic lesions such as skin tags and age spots are generally not covered by MSP. Coverage for medically necessary treatment depends on the physician's assessment of the lesion.
Can I wash my face after?+
Yes, you can shower and wash gently. Avoid scrubbing the treated area or picking at the scab, as this can cause scarring.
Where can I get medical cryotherapy in Burnaby?+
Skin Art MD is a physician-led skin clinic at #101 – 4378 Beresford St, Burnaby, BC V5H 0H6, near Metrotown SkyTrain Station (Expo Line). We are open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–18:00, and closed on Monday. Phone: +1 (604) 639-2581.
Is Skin Art MD a physician-led skin clinic?+
Yes. Skin Art MD is a physician-led skin clinic in Burnaby. Lesions are examined by a physician before cryotherapy is considered.
What are the possible side effects of cryotherapy?+
Blistering, scabbing, temporary redness or swelling, and lighter or darker marks in the treated area can occur. Your physician will go over risks before treatment.
Who may not be able to have cryotherapy?+
Cold urticaria, active infection or open wounds in the area, a weakened immune system without medical approval, and suspected malignant lesions are among the reasons it may not be suitable. A physician assessment decides.
Is cryotherapy available near Vancouver?+
Skin Art MD is in Burnaby's Metrotown area within Metro Vancouver, close to Metrotown SkyTrain Station on the Expo Line.
Have a Skin Lesion You Want Assessed?
Book an assessment at our Burnaby clinic so a physician can examine it and discuss options.
