Seborrheic keratoses are among the most common benign growths in adults over 40, and the cumulative sun exposure that comes with an active outdoor lifestyle across Dane County’s long summers is a consistent contributing factor to their development. Many patients notice new growths appearing after particularly sun-heavy seasons, before ever knowing what they are.
At VIVE Med Spa, we provide seborrheic keratosis treatment in Verona, WI, for patients throughout Fitchburg, Madison, Middleton, Oregon, Belleville, and New Glarus. Treatment is performed by the medical provider following a clinical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis before removal.
Seborrheic keratoses are benign, non-contagious skin growths that develop from a buildup of skin cells. They typically present as raised, rough, or warty plaques ranging from light tan to dark brown or black. They often have a characteristic “stuck-on” appearance, as though they could be scraped off the skin surface.
They can appear anywhere on the body except the palms and soles, most commonly on the face, chest, shoulders, and back. They are completely benign, have no malignant potential, and are not caused by a virus. Despite their sometimes alarming appearance, they require no treatment for medical reasons, though many patients choose removal for comfort or cosmetic concerns.
The exact cause is not fully established, but contributing factors include:
SKs become significantly more common after age 40 and increase in number with each decade.
A strong family history of seborrheic keratoses is the most consistent predictor of development.
Cumulative UV exposure is associated with the development of these skin growths in sun-exposed areas. Dane County’s active outdoor culture, combined with long Wisconsin summers, contributes to a lifetime UV load that accelerates the appearance of aging.
SKs in areas of chronic skin friction may develop earlier or more densely in some patients.
Clinical evaluation is worth scheduling if:
Benign Skin Lesion Removal (Cryotherapy)
Liquid nitrogen is applied to the area of concern, freezing and destroying the surface growth. The treated lesion blisters, darkens, and sheds over 1 to 2 weeks as the body clears the disrupted tissue, leaving smoother skin beneath. Every lesion is evaluated by the medical provider before treatment to confirm the clinical diagnosis.
No. They are benign and do not require treatment. Removal is elective and appropriate when the growth is causing irritation, bleeding from friction, or cosmetic concern.
The treated lesion typically does not recur. However, patients who develop seborrheic keratoses are likely to develop new lesions elsewhere over time, as this tendency is genetically determined.
Any growth that changes color, has irregular borders, bleeds without trauma, or does not match the typical appearance of a SK should be evaluated by a dermatologist before any cosmetic removal is considered.
Most patients experience a brief stinging sensation during liquid nitrogen application, lasting a few seconds. No anesthesia is required for the removal of standard keratosis.
At VIVE Med Spa in Verona, WI, every seborrheic keratosis is evaluated by the medical provider before treatment. Patients from Fitchburg, Madison, Middleton, and across the surrounding area trust us for the clinical accuracy this kind of growth requires.
Book a consultation to explore your goals, ask questions, or learn which treatments are the best fit for you. If you are ready to book or simply want to learn more about what we offer, our team is happy to walk you through your options. We are here to help.
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