CryoPen Skin Lesion Removal in Edinburgh

Unwanted skin lumps and bumps – such as skin tags, warts and verrucae – can be removed quickly and precisely with CryoPen cryosurgery at our Edinburgh clinic, helping you enjoy smoother, clearer skin and less irritation.

If you are worried that a mole or lesion might be cancerous, it should always be checked first. You can book an assessment with The Mole Clinic, which is conveniently based within DRVICTORIA™ Clinic, before any cosmetic treatment is considered.

For benign skin lesions that are not eligible for removal by your GP or on the NHS, CryoPen offers a safe, accurate private treatment option for skin tags, warts and verrucae.

What Cryosurgery Can Treat

Cryosurgery is a quick and painless treatment to treat:

Benign Skin Lesions

Skin Tags: Small, soft growths that commonly appear on the neck, armpits, and eyelids.
Seborrheic Keratosis: Waxy, wart-like lesions often found on the face, chest, or back.
Actinic Keratosis: Rough, scaly skin patch caused by long-term sun exposure.
Cysts: A sac-like structure filled with fluid.

Warts and Verrucae

Common Warts: Typically on hands and knees.
Plantar Warts (Verrucae): Typically on the soles of the feet.

How Cryosurgery Works?

The cryosurgery is a highly precise device used to remove unwanted skin lesions by delivering a controlled jet of very cold gas (nitrous oxide, N₂O) directly onto the area. This freezes and destroys the targeted tissue while helping to protect the surrounding healthy skin.

Because it is so accurate, the cryosurgery can be safely used on small lesions in intimate areas and around the eyes. As a non-surgical treatment (no cutting or stitches), it offers a quick procedure with a low risk of scarring or infection compared with traditional surgical removal.

Before and After

BEFORE

AFTER

What to Expect During Cryosurgery

The cryosurgery process is quick and comfortable treatment, but multiple treatments may be required.

Consultation and Treatment

Your nurse will first assess your lesion(s) to confirm that cryosurgery is appropriate. They will explain the procedure, discuss any risks, and answer your questions. If there is any concern about the nature of the lesion, you will be referred to The Mole Clinic instead of treated on the day.

If suitable, up to three lesions can usually be treated in your initial appointment. If you have more, a follow-up visit will be arranged.

Treatment is carried out using either a CryoPen® or CryoSuccess® device. Both use nitrous oxide (a very cold gas) to freeze the lesion. A fine spray or cooled tip is applied for a few seconds at a time, with the exact duration and number of cycles depending on the size and thickness of the lesion.

You may feel a brief cold or stinging sensation, which typically settles quickly. Your nurse will select the most appropriate device for the area being treated.

Aftercare

After the procedure, the treated area will undergo a natural healing process.

Dos and Don'ts

Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Gently cleanse the area with water and pat it dry. Avoid applying heavy creams or ointments unless advised by the nurse.
Wear Sun Protection: Use a high-SPF sunscreen if directed to protect the treated area from sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation.
Avoid Picking or Scratching: Let the scab or crusts heal naturally to prevent scarring. These normally resolve within 2 weeks.
Avoid Harsh Products: Refrain from using exfoliating or acidic skincare products on the treated area until fully healed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What preparation is need for cryosurgery?

For benign lesions, no special preparation is necessary.

However, for warts or verrucae, we recommend in the days leading up to your appointment:

Soak the lesion: Place the wart or verruca in a bowl of warm, soapy water for about 20 minutes.
Gently exfoliate: Use a pumice stone or emery board to scrub the lesion lightly until the skin becomes rough. This helps the nitrous oxide penetrate deeper during the treatment, increasing the chances of successful removal.
Be cautious: Avoid over-scrubbing. Stop immediately if you notice any bleeding, as you don’t want to cause discomfort or create an open wound.

This preparation helps improve the effectiveness of the treatment to achieve faster results.

What side effects can I expect after cryosurgery?

Common temporary side effects include redness, swelling, blistering, or scabbing at the treatment site.

Rarely, hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) or hyperpigmentation (darkening) may occur, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.

Do you recommend cryosurgery to treat pigmentation?

No, we recommend laser and IPL treatments to treat pigmentation as it is more effective.

Cryosurgery vs Electrolysis

Both cryosurgery and electrolysis treatments can be used to remove benign lesions. Electrolysis uses a thermolysis current and a very fine needle to either cauterise or lift away the superficial epidermis which can be very uncomfortable. Cryosurgery is typically more comfortable and requires less appointments.

When to Expect Results

The timeline for results varies depending on the type and size of the lesion treated:

Small Lesions: These may heal within 7-14 days, with the scab falling off naturally.
Larger Lesions: Healing may take up to 3-4 weeks or longer.

The final results are typically evident within 4-6 weeks, though complete skin regeneration may take longer.

Guide to Skin Tag, Wart & Verruca Removal

Learn how CryoPen cryosurgery removes skin tags, warts and verrucae quickly and safely, with clear aftercare advice.

Cryosurgery Prices

Treatment Options	£
Consultation & treatment of 1-3 lesions - Book Online	£125*
Follow up for 1 lesions	£75
Follow up for 2 lesions	£90
Follow up for 3 lesions	£105
Follow up for 4 lesions	£130
Follow up for 5 lesions	£145
Follow up for 6 lesions	£160