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Keratosis Removal

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About the treatment

Understanding keratosis removal

As we age, various ‘lumps and bumps’ may begin growing on our skin in various parts of our body. Keratosis is a common skin growth that can be unsightly and, in some cases, is a health concern.

Your treatment with

Bella Plastic Surgery Nurses

Initial consultations for non-surgical procedures are conducted by our experienced Bella Plastic Surgery cosmetic nurses, who work alongside Dr Eddy Dona to deliver safe, evidence-based, and AHPRA-compliant care.

Everything you need to know

About this treatment

What Are Keratosis Lesions?

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The two common types of keratoses are actinic and seborrhoeic. In actinic keratosis, a small reddish, scaly, dry patch of skin forms over time and is often associated with sun damage. Actinic keratosis can become skin cancer if left untreated.

Seborrhoeic keratosis (SK) is one of the most common benign (non-cancerous) skin growths. It is not to be confused with another common skin condition referred to as Actinic Keratosis (AK) which is also referred to as Solar Keratosis. AK are a precancerous skin lesion.

SK have a waxy, scaly, slightly raised appearance; it often ranges from light brown to black.

What Can I Expect in the Treatment?

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First, we will clean the area to be treated and if required, topical anaesthetic may be applied. Then your keratosis lesion(s) will be removed using our laser technology. The laser instrument has a small pen-tip head that targets the keratosis lesion but leaves the surrounding skin untouched.

What are benefits of Laser treatment?

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Keratoses can be removed within minutes from the face and body. For facial keratoses, laser treatments may avoid the scarring from the liquid nitrogen or acid-based chemicals commonly used in many medical clinics.

While some minor scarring can occur from a laser treatment, this is usually pale white and no larger than the treated area. Facial skin heals very well. In most cases, you will be unable to detect the original location of the keratosis once the treated area has healed.

Is Laser Keratosis Removal Safe?

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Whilst most keratosis and other skin lesions are benign (non-cancerous), some keratosis can develop into skin cancer. Having any keratosis checked by your practitioner trained in skin cancer detection is essential. When a keratosis is removed by laser, the keratosis is disintegrated, meaning that the keratosis cannot be sent to pathology for testing. Having your keratosis(s) assessed for skin cancer, is a mandatory requirement, prior to having treatment at Bella Plastic Surgery.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

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Laser removal of keratoses takes only a few minutes. Still, we allow 30 minutes for your appointment to complete a Patient Registration Form, receive a consultation and discuss the procedure, potential risks and post-care instructions.

How Many Treatments Will I Require?

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Our laser technology enables the removal of keratoses immediately at the time of treatment. In rare cases, you may require a touch-up treatment.

Is the treatment painful?

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To ensure you are comfortable, you will have the option of a topical, local or combination anaesthetic. The anaesthetic will ensure that the area is partially or wholly numb before your laser treatment.

How much does Keratosis Removal cost?

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Cost depends on the area treated, product or device used, and the number of sessions required to reach the desired result. Our cosmetic nurses will provide a tailored quote during your consultation.

Important to know

Possible side effects

Following your Laser Keratosis Treatment, there will be some redness, slight swelling and yellow oozing around the treated area(s) for up to a week following your treatment. In addition, a temporary scab will form; this is a natural part of the healing process. The scab will usually fall off within seven to ten days, and it is essential to avoid touching or scratching the scab off the treated area. Scratching or picking at the scab can cause inflammation, making any scarring more prominent. After the scab has fallen off, the treated area will appear red due to new capillary formation. Any redness around the treatment area will usually dissipate in a matter of months following treatment. E…

  • Lightening or darkening of the skin in the treated areas 
  • Skin crusting or blistering  
  • Infection  
  • Scarringwhich includes Hypertrophic or Keloid Scarring  

Interested in keratosis removal?

Speak with our cosmetic nurses about your suitability, the treatment options, what to expect and pricing. Our friendly team will call you back to discuss the treatment and schedule your appointment.

Book a treatment
Or call 1300 37 3662
Further reading

Keratosis Removal articles