Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
What is Seborrheic Keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a common, benign (non-cancerous) skin growth that typically appears as people age. These growths often look waxy, scaly, or slightly raised, with a color that can range from light tan to dark brown or black. They can appear anywhere on the body, except the palms and soles, but are most often found on the chest, back, face, or scalp.
Though harmless, seborrheic keratoses can sometimes become irritated, itchy, or unsightly, prompting people to seek removal for cosmetic reasons or comfort.
How is Seborrheic Keratosis Removed?
Removal is not medically necessary unless the lesion becomes irritated, bleeds, or changes in appearance (in which case evaluation is needed to rule out skin cancer). However, many choose removal for cosmetic purposes. Treatment options include:
- Cryotherapy (Freezing with Liquid Nitrogen) – The most common method. The lesion is frozen off and typically falls off within days or weeks.
- Curettage – A special instrument is used to gently scrape the lesion off after numbing the area.
- Topical treatments –In some cases, prescription topical solutions like hydrogen peroxide-based treatments (e.g., ESKATA) may be used.
- Adults over age 40, SK is more common with age.
- People with multiple lesions, some individuals may have dozens of growths.
- Those with cosmetic concerns, especially when SKs appear on visible areas like the face or neck.
- Anyone with irritated or itchy lesions, particularly if clothing or friction causes discomfort.
- Patients unsure if a lesion is benign, It's important to differentiate SK from more serious conditions like melanoma.
Who is Seborrheic Keratosis Removal For?
SK removal is typically sought by:
Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is seborrheic keratosis contagious?
No. SK is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Can seborrheic keratosis turn into skin cancer?
No. SKs are benign and not cancerous. However, it's important to have any suspicious or changing growths evaluated to rule out skin cancer.
Does removal hurt?
Removal methods are generally well-tolerated. Local anesthesia may be used for procedures like curettage or electrosurgery. Cryotherapy may cause a brief stinging sensation.
Will the lesion come back after removal?
Once removed, a specific lesion will not return, but new SKs can develop elsewhere over time.
Will I have a scar?
Minor scarring or skin discoloration is possible, especially with larger lesions or in individuals prone to pigmentation changes, but most procedures leave minimal or no scarring.
Can I remove seborrheic keratosis at home?
No. Home removal is not recommended and can lead to infection, scarring, or misdiagnosis of a more serious condition.
Is seborrheic keratosis removal covered by insurance?
If removal is done for medical reasons (e.g., bleeding, irritation, or diagnostic uncertainty), insurance may cover it. Cosmetic removals are typically not covered.