Precise Dermatologic Removal of Skin Growths and Lesions
Electrodesiccation & Curettage, often called ED&C, is an effective dermatologic procedure used to remove certain benign or early precancerous skin lesions with precision and controlled care. At Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County, our board-certified dermatologists use ED&C as part of personalized treatment plans to safely address lesions while preserving healthy surrounding skin.
What Is Electrodesiccation & Curettage?
ED&C combines two techniques:
- Curettage, gently scraping the lesion with a surgical instrument called a curette
- Electrodesiccation, using a specialized device to apply controlled electrical energy that dries (desiccates) remaining cells and minimizes bleeding
This combination allows the dermatologist to efficiently remove tissue and help prevent regrowth.
Why Choose ED&C?
ED&C is a reliable option for treating a range of skin conditions, including:
- Certain benign lesions (e.g., seborrheic keratoses, skin tags)
- Some precancerous conditions like actinic keratoses
- Small superficial basal cell carcinomas (in select cases)
Benefits of ED&C include:
- Quick, in-office procedure
- Controlled removal with minimal damage to surrounding healthy skin
- Often completed with local anesthesia for comfort
- Short recovery time
Your dermatologist will evaluate your skin and determine whether ED&C is the most appropriate method for your specific lesion.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before Treatment
Your dermatologist will:
- Review your medical history
- Examine the lesion and surrounding area
- Explain the procedure, aftercare, and expected outcome
During the Procedure
- Local anesthesia is applied to keep you comfortable
- The lesion is gently scraped with a curette
- The base is treated with a controlled electrical current to reduce bleeding and destroy residual lesion cells
The entire process is typically completed in minutes, depending on size and location of the lesion.
Recovery & Aftercare
After ED&C:
- The treatment area will form a small scab as part of normal healing
- You may experience mild redness, tenderness, or crusting
- Most patients can return to normal activities shortly afterward
Your dermatologist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to:
- Support healing
- Minimize infection risk
- Optimize cosmetic outcome
Sun protection and gentle wound care are essential as the skin heals.
Frequently Asked Questions About ED&C
Does ED&C hurt?
No, local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during the procedure, and any post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.
How long does it take?
Most treatments are completed in a single visit and take only a few minutes, depending on the lesion’s size and location.
Will there be a scar?
ED&C does leave a small healing site that may result in a minor scar. Your dermatologist uses techniques and aftercare recommendations designed to help healing with minimal cosmetic impact.
Is this procedure safe?
Yes, when performed by experienced dermatologists, ED&C is a safe and effective approach for appropriate skin lesions.
How do I know if ED&C is right for me?
Your dermatologist will assess your skin and lesion type to determine if ED&C or another method (such as excision or laser therapy) is a better fit.
Targeted Treatment With Personalized Care
If you have a persistent skin lesion or growth that requires professional evaluation and removal, the dermatology team at Pure Dermatology Cosmetic and Hair Center in Newport Beach, Orange County can help. We’ll review your condition, explain your options, and create a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs.
Call or Text Today to Schedule Your Evaluation
For more information on How to care for your ED&C Site:ED&C AfterCare Instructions