What to Expect

Your journey begins with an initial preview of your medical records and images to assess your eligibility for cryoablation.  If you decide to move forward, an in-person or telehealth consultation will be scheduled which Dr. Holmes will discuss your relevant medical history, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Your evaluation will include a review of relevant imaging studies (e.g., Mammograms, Ultrasound, QT imaging, thermography, or MRI) to determine the most appropriate cryoablation treatment option for you.  If imaging studies are incomplete or outdated, it might be necessary to obtain more recent studies to enable accurate treatment planning.  

When a final plan is reached, you can be scheduled for the procedure at the earliest possible date.

You will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including any dietary restrictions and medication guidelines. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

When you arrive at our Los Angeles facility, you will be greeted by our friendly staff who will guide you through the check-in process. We recommend arriving early to complete any necessary paperwork and to relax before your procedure.

Cryoablation is minimally invasive and typically performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Holmes will perform the cryoablation using a needle-like instrument to deliver cold temperatures to the targeted tissue, effectively freezing and destroying the cancer cells. The entire process typically takes <45 minutes, but longer treatments are needed for larger cancers. You may feel some pressure or cold during the freezing process, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated and relatively pain-free.

Throughout the procedure, our team will monitor your comfort. Most patients choose to chat with Dr. Holmes during the procedure, which helps to ensure a smooth experience.

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short period before being discharged. Most patients can resume non-strenuous activities the next day. You will be given an appointment with Dr. Holmes for an in person or telehealth/phone follow-up visit.

You will receive detailed instructions on how to care for the treated area, including how to manage any mild discomfort or swelling. It is crucial to follow these instructions to ensure proper healing.

Dr. Holmes will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. Regular imaging studies may be performed to track the progress and to detect any potential recurrence early.



You will be provided with guidelines for long-term care and monitoring. Dr. Holmes and his team are always available to answer any questions and provide ongoing support.