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Seborrheic Keratosis: Laser Treatment

Topic Overview

Seborrheic keratoses can be removed using a laser, an intense beam of light that burns and destroys the growth. Laser light cleans (sterilizes) and seals as it cuts tissue, which reduces bleeding, pain, and healing time.

A laser procedure may be done in your doctor's office or clinic. An injection of a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) may help control pain. After laser treatment, the wound will be painful for a few days. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to clean and care for your wound.

Laser treatment normally causes no scarring. But it can cause permanent skin lightening.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
Last Revised January 28, 2011

Last Revised: January 28, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology

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