Precision radiofrequency treatment

Precision radiofrequency treatment uses controlled electrical energy to create heat at a fine treatment tip. This allows selected small skin lesions to be treated with accuracy, while limiting unnecessary damage to surrounding skin.

This treatment may also be described as radiofrequency surgery, electrosurgery, diathermy or radiofrequency cautery. The exact technique and tip selected depends on the type, size and location of the lesion being treated.

What can precision radiofrequency treat?

Precision radiofrequency may be used for selected small skin lesions where assessment confirms treatment is suitable. These may include:

• Skin tags
• Milia
• Sebaceous hyperplasia
• Syringomas
• Cherry angiomas
• Selected xanthelasma
• Selected seborrhoeic keratoses

Assessment before treatment

A nurse or dermal clinician assesses the lesion and discusses whether radiofrequency is suitable. If the diagnosis or treatment approach needs doctor review, this is arranged before treatment. Some lesions require biopsy, monitoring or a different treatment.

How treatment is performed

The skin is cleaned and the area may be numbed with local anaesthetic, depending on the lesion and its location. A fine radiofrequency tip is then applied to heat and treat the selected tissue with precision.

The treated area may appear red, darkened or slightly crusted immediately after treatment. A small scab may form as the area begins to heal.

How to prepare

Most precision radiofrequency treatments require minimal preparation. On the day of your appointment, arrive with clean skin and no makeup on the treatment area.

Healing and aftercare

Healing time depends on the lesion type, treatment area, depth of treatment and individual skin type. Most treated areas settle gradually over days to weeks.

Your clinician will explain how to care for the area after treatment. This usually includes keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding picking or scratching, and protecting the area from sun exposure while healing.

Learn more about precision radiofrequency treatment aftercare.

Possible risks

Possible risks include redness, swelling, crusting, pigment change, scarring, incomplete clearance and recurrence. These risks vary depending on the lesion type, treatment site and individual skin type.

Precision radiofrequency treatment may not be suitable for every patient or lesion. Let your clinician know if you have a pacemaker or implanted electrical device, a tendency to bleed or poor wound healing, or a history of problematic scarring.

Related skin conditions

Precision radiofrequency treatment may be considered for selected skin tags, milia, syringomas, sebaceous hyperplasia, cherry angiomas, xanthelasma and seborrhoeic keratoses.

Fees

See our assessment fees and superficial lesion treatment fees. Your clinician will discuss the planned treatment and costs at assessment.