Electrocautery


Electrocautery (sometimes referred to as thermocautery) is a medical procedure that uses a controlled electrical current to generate heat at the tip of a fine probe. This heat is then applied directly to the targeted skin lesion, causing it to dry out, shrink, or separate from the surrounding healthy skin.

The procedure is not a laser — electrocautery uses heat conduction through direct contact, rather than light energy. This makes it particularly suitable for certain raised or superficial lesions where precise, localized treatment is preferred.

Dr. Olivera Nikolic may recommend electrocautery for selected benign skin concerns, including but not limited to:

• Seborrheic keratoses — benign, often brown or black growths that appear waxy or scaly
• Skin tags (acrochordons) — small, soft, flesh-coloured growths attached to the skin by a thin stalk
• Cherry angiomas — small, bright red bumps caused by dilated blood vessels
• Milia — small, white cysts commonly appearing on the face
• Certain warts — where other treatments have not been suitable or effective
• Other benign superficial lesions — assessed on a case-by-case basis

Important note: Electrocautery is not suitable for all skin lesions. Before recommending treatment, Dr. Olivera Nikolic will conduct a thorough clinical assessment to confirm the diagnosis and ensure electrocautery is appropriate for your specific concern.

Electrocautery is a quick, in-clinic procedure typically completed within a single visit. Here is what you can expect:

Step 1 — Assessment and Consent: 
Dr. Nikolic will examine the lesion, confirm the diagnosis, and explain the procedure, including expected outcomes and possible risks. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before providing informed consent.

Step 2 — Preparation: 
The treatment area will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution. A local anaesthetic may be applied or injected to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

Step 3 — Treatment
Using a fine, sterile probe, Dr. Nikolic applies controlled heat directly to the lesion. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes, depending on the size and number of lesions being treated.

Step 4 — Aftercare
You will receive clear aftercare instructions. Treated lesions may form a small scab or crust, which will fall off naturally as the skin heals. It is important not to pick or scratch the treated area to minimise the risk of scarring or infection.

• Immediately after treatment — The treated area may appear red or slightly swollen. This is normal and typically subsides within a few hours to days
• Healing period — A small scab or crust will form over the treated lesion. This usually falls off within 1 to 2 weeks, revealing fresh skin underneath
• Final result — Once healed, the treated lesion is typically gone or significantly reduced. Some patients may require a second session for optimal results, depending on the size and type of lesion
• Scarring risk — When performed correctly on suitable lesions by an experienced practitioner, the risk of scarring is low. Dr. Nikolic uses precise technique to minimise impact on surrounding healthy skin

• DHA-licensed dermatology specialist — not a technician or general practitioner
• Diagnosis before treatment — every lesion is assessed before any procedure is recommended
• Private, unhurried consultations — your questions are answered, your concerns are heard 
• Transparent, ethical care — clear explanations and realistic expectations

Book Your Consultation If you have a benign skin lesion that you would like to have assessed, electrocautery may be an option. The first step is a thorough clinical consultation with Dr. Olivera Nikolic.

To schedule a private consultation at ELEMENTAL Day Surgical Center, please contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or our online booking system.

To help you make an informed decision, it is important to understand what electrocautery is not:

• Not a laser — Electrocautery uses heat through direct contact; it is not a light-based treatment
• Not for all lesions — Some lesions require different approaches, including surgical excision, cryotherapy, or laser therapy 
• Not a substitute for histopathology — If a lesion has atypical features, Dr. Nikolic may recommend biopsy before any treatment