Freezing or Scraping a Seborrheic Keratosis?

If a raised growth catches on your bra strap or draws your attention whenever you get dressed, you can ask about removal. Start by having the growth identified before comparing procedures.

Compare the procedures

Question	Freezing	Electrosurgery and scraping
What is used?	Liquid nitrogen destroys the growth. 1	An electric current treats the growth, and a curette can scrape it away. 1
What happens during recovery?	It may blister and form a crust before falling off. 1	Local anesthetic is used; a small amount of bleeding can occur. 1
Is every growth treated this way?	Ask whether freezing fits the confirmed diagnosis.	The clinician may use one technique or combine them. 1

Ask what the choice means for your skin

Skin may be lighter after removal, sometimes permanently. A new growth can occur elsewhere even when the removed one does not return.¹ Ask what appearance to expect at the treated site and which changes should prompt a call during healing.

Tell the clinician what is bothering you: catching on clothing, repeated irritation or its appearance. Ask whether the proposed treatment also provides tissue for examination if that is needed. You can take time to understand the reason for the recommendation before agreeing.

Skin, Head to Toe includes a Skin Sort worksheet and a Skin Log. Use them to organize what you have noticed and the questions you want answered. See the book.