Liquid Nitrogen (Freezing) Wound Care
What to expect after treatment:
Immediately after the area is frozen, expect a stinging or burning sensation to last for 10 to 15 minutes.
- A change in sensation (such as numbness) may be experienced and is usually temporary. Taking Tylenol may relieve any residual pain you may have.
- The skin around the area that was frozen may appear “puffy” and reddened for several days.
- You may-experience a blister or even a blood blister over the area that was frozen. The blister may last for a period of 1 to 2 weeks, and then slowly heal with crusting.
- The area that was frozen may result in either an area of lighter or darker skin. While unusual, this discoloration may occur and persist indefinitely.
The areas which were treated usually do not need to be covered. They should be cleansed gently with hydrogen peroxide diluted in half with water, and a cotton ball. After cleaning the area, apply Vaseline.
If a blister occurs you can thoroughly sterilize a needle with alcohol and lightly poke the side of the blister until the fluid drains, but leave the blister intact. If the blister breaks open and oozes, continue wound care as described in the above statement, then apply Vaseline.
Should you experience any signs of infection (increased pain, swelling, drainage, or redness) notify the doctor or provider at the phone number below.
It is common that more that one treatment may be necessary to completely remove a wart or keratosis. If the growth is not completely gone or seems to be coming back, please make a return appointment.
If you have been treated for warts you may have been given a prescription for Aldara. If you have been treated for pre-cancers you may have been given a prescription for Carac, Solaraze or Aldara. Start applying these medications to the treated area(s) when the blister or scab has healed, or when the peroxide stops bubbling.
IF THERE ARE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE AT (828) 274-4880 MONDAY –FRIDAY (8 AM-5 PM)
ON WEEKENDS OR EVENINGS, PLEASE CALL (828) 259-5008
