Did you know that not all skin growths need immediate medical attention? Many people have common growths like skin tags, moles, or warts that often don’t cause problems. But some skin changes can signal the need to see a professional.
At Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas, TX, Dr. McElya and our team help patients understand when treatment is necessary and offer safe, effective options like cryotherapy. By the end of this post, you’ll know how to spot concerning skin growths and learn about treatment options available right here in your neighborhood.
Understanding Different Skin Growths
Skin growths come in various forms. Knowing what each one is can help you decide when to seek medical advice.
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Skin Tags
Small, soft pieces of skin that hang off the surface. Usually harmless, they tend to form where skin rubs against skin or clothing. -
Warts
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts are rough or raised growths that can appear anywhere and are contagious. -
Moles
Common pigmented spots on the skin. They vary in size, shape, and color and are usually harmless but should be monitored for changes.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most skin growths don’t require treatment. However, certain signs mean it’s time to get a professional opinion from Dr. McElya at Neighborhood Medical Center:
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Change in Size or Shape
If a mole or growth is growing, changing shape, or looking uneven, it could be a warning sign. -
Irritation or Pain
Growths that bleed, itch, hurt, or become irritated by clothing or shaving need to be checked. -
Cosmetic Reasons
Even if growths are harmless, you might want them removed to feel more comfortable or confident.
What Is Cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a popular, safe treatment we offer at Neighborhood Medical Center to remove certain skin growths.
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How it works: The growth is frozen using liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off naturally.
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Benefits:
• Quick procedure (often just a few minutes)
• Minimally invasive and safe
• Little downtime, with many patients returning to normal activities immediately
Dr. McElya uses cryotherapy regularly at Neighborhood Medical because it’s effective and well-tolerated by patients.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
At your visit at NMC in Dallast Dr. McElya will examine your skin growth and recommend the best treatment.
During treatment:
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The freezing process is brief
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No stitches or long recovery time needed
After treatment:
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Keep the treated area clean to avoid infection.
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Avoid direct sunlight on the site to help it heal properly.
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Watch for any unusual irritation or changes, and contact the clinic if you notice anything concerning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cryotherapy painful?
You might feel a brief cold or stinging sensation, but it’s generally well tolerated.
How long does it take to heal?
Most patients heal within a week, with only minor scabbing.
Can growths come back?
Cryotherapy is effective, but some growths may return in the same or nearby areas.
Taking Charge of Your Skin Health
Regular skin checks and paying attention to any changes are key to preventing complications. Our team at Neighborhood Medical Center recommends scheduling routine visits to stay on top of your skin health.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Healthy skin not only looks great but also boosts your confidence and comfort. Let us help you take care of your skin the right way—right here in Dallas. Contact Neighborhood Medical Center to schedule your appointment and learn more about cryotherapy with Dr. McElya.