Precision radiofrequency aftercare

This information is for patients who have had precision radiofrequency treatment at Spot Check Clinic. Precision radiofrequency treatment removes superficial skin lesions using heat, leaving a shallow wound that heals over several weeks.

What to expect as the wound heals

• First 2–3 days — the wound is a small crater with the dressing in place. Keep it covered and dry.
• 1–2 weeks after removing the dressing — redness, mild weeping and early healing tissue are normal. A yellowish film may appear at the base — this can occur during healing, but does not rule out infection.
• 3–6 weeks — the wound should look like a pink flat mark.
• Several months onwards — redness gradually fades. Scar remodelling continues for several months.

What is normal after precision radiofrequency treatment

• A small crater or raw-looking patch at the treated site
• Mild bleeding or oozing in the first 1–2 days
• A crust or scab forming over the wound
• A yellow film at the base of the wound — this may be healing tissue; increasing pain, discharge or spreading redness need review
• Redness around the wound edges

Contact the clinic if you notice

• Bleeding that does not stop after 15–20 minutes of firm pressure
• Pain that increases significantly after the first 2 days
• Spreading redness beyond the immediate wound edge
• Thick discharge or an offensive odour
• Fever or feeling generally unwell

If the wound bleeds

Apply firm, continuous pressure to the wound using a clean dressing or cloth for 15–20 minutes. Do not lift the dressing to check during this time. If bleeding does not settle, contact the clinic.

Managing the treated area

Dressing

Leave your dressing in place for 3 days and keep the wound as dry as possible. If the dressing sticks when removing, gently soak it with water to ease it off. Spray-on dressings will gradually peel away on their own as you wash normally.

Once the dressing is removed, you may leave the wound uncovered or use a simple Band-Aid if preferred.

Pain relief

Pain is usually mild. Paracetamol can be used if needed. Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen as these can increase the risk of bleeding.

Do not stop prescribed aspirin, blood thinners or other regular medicines without advice from your prescribing doctor.

Wound-care gel

To minimise scarring and support healing, apply a silicone gel after the dressing is removed. We recommend Epicyn silicone/hypochlorous acid hydrogel to support a moist wound environment. Use the product advised for your wound; not every silicone scar gel is suitable for open skin. Apply two to three times daily for up to 3 months.

Sun protection

Healing skin is more sensitive to UV exposure and more prone to pigmentation changes. Keep the area covered or apply SPF 50+ once the surface has closed.

Activity

Avoid swimming until the wound has fully healed. Avoid strenuous exercise for the first few days.

LED light therapy

LED light therapy may be recommended to support healing and reduce inflammation, particularly for wounds at higher risk of delayed healing or scarring.

When to have the area reviewed

Contact the clinic to arrange a review if:

• The wound is not healing as expected after several weeks
• The lesion appears to return after initial healing
• New or similar lesions appear nearby

If you notice a new or changing spot in the future, it is important to have it assessed with a skin cancer check.