Ellman Radiofrequency – Precision Cosmetic Removal of Raised Benign Skin Lesions

By Dr Ahmed (Ed) Omarjee, MBBS (Hons), FCPCA, FACAM, FRACGP

When removing raised benign skin lesions from the face and body, both medical precision and aesthetic consideration are important.

At The DOC Cosmetic & Skin Clinic, I use the Ellman Radiofrequency (RF) Surgical System and have refined my own approach to aim for minimising visible scarring and achieving an optimal cosmetic result.

I have been using the Ellman RF device for over 20 years and have performed more than 25,000 lesion removals using this method.

What is Ellman Radiofrequency?

Ellman RF is a high-frequency, low-temperature surgical technology that uses radiowaves to cut or vaporise targeted tissue with precision. Operating at 4.0 MHz, it produces minimal lateral heat spread compared to traditional electrosurgery or diathermy devices.

This allows for:

• Reduced tissue trauma to surrounding skin
• Smoother wound edges
• Shorter recovery periods in suitable cases

Why I Use Ellman RF for Certain Benign Lesions?

From an aesthetic point of view, the less unnecessary trauma to surrounding skin, the more refined the final result can be. Ellman RF’s precision allows superficial removal of the lesion, keeping the surrounding healthy skin intact.

Ellman RF can be considered for:

• Raised benign moles (non-cancerous, stable in size and appearance)
• Skin tags
• Seborrhoeic keratoses
• Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN)
• Syringomas
• Certain benign keratin growths

Every Lesion is Assessed First

Before any cosmetic removal, I perform a medical consultation to determine if the lesion is suitable for cosmetic treatment. This includes:

1. A detailed history (onset, changes, symptoms).
2. Examination with dermatoscopy (I use the Heine Delta Pro dermatoscope).

A Note on Dermatoscopy

Dermoscopy uses polarised light and magnification to reveal subsurface structures, such as pigment networks, vascular patterns, and skin architecture.
If there is any doubt about whether a lesion is benign, I will always perform a biopsy before cosmetic treatment.

This may be:

• A shave biopsy
• A punch biopsy
• A traditional elliptical biopsy

The tissue is then sent for histopathology to confirm the diagnosis.

Ellman RF vs Traditional Diathermy

What to Expect During Treatment?

1. The targeted area is prepared for treatment — this takes only a few seconds.
2. Once the area is ready, the procedure is pain-free.
3. A fine RF wire loop or electrode removes the lesion flush with surrounding skin.
4. If required, all or part of the lesion is sent for histopathology.
5. A small dressing or protective ointment is applied.

Healing & Aftercare

• Most treated lesions develop a minor top healing layer (scab) within 7–14 days.
• This usually exfoliates off about a week later, revealing a flat healing area beneath.
• The colour of the healing site can vary depending on:
  • The original colour of the lesion
  • The patient’s skin tone
  • The location of the lesion
• Ideally, the healing site appears red or pink initially.
• Topical gels and ointments are prescribed to help reduce infection risk, optimise healing, and minimise abnormal scar formation.
• If pigmentation remains after healing, it can be addressed from 2 months post-procedure using superficial laser options such as:
  • Alma 532 nm KTP laser
  • Excel V+ 532 nm Dermastat pen
  • Revlite Q-switch 532/1064 nm laser

Sun protection is important during healing to reduce the risk of pigmentation changes.

Why Patients May Choose This Method

• Precision in removing raised benign lesions
• Minimal effect on surrounding healthy skin
• Suitable for cosmetically sensitive areas
• Virtually pain-free
• Can be combined with biopsy for diagnosis when indicated

The DOC Cosmetic & Skin Clinic – West
302 Heaths Rd, Hoppers Crossing VIC 3029

The DOC Cosmetic & Skin Clinic – East

Phone: (03) 9021 6022
Email: info@thedoc.com.au
Website: www.thedoc.com.au

Dr Ahmed (Ed) Omarjee, MBBS (Hons), FCPCA, FACAM, FRACGP
The DOC Cosmetic & Skin Clinic