Wart Removal

Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), they appear more frequently on the feet, genitals, face, and fingers. They are rough in texture and are transmitted by touch. Due to their appearance, common warts are not only an aesthetic issue that causes embarrassment but also produce irritating symptoms that interfere with daily activities. They are highly contagious spreading to other parts of the body, and to other people. Although very rare, an extensive amount of warts on the body can indicate an immune system malfunction.

Wart removal is a procedure by which the wart tissue is removed for therapeutic and aesthetic purposes, performed by a trained Dermatologist.

When is wart removal treatment indicated?

Since warts are caused by a virus, eventually your immune system will attack the wart and it will resolve on its own. This process can take years however, and in the meantime warts can spread. As soon as you see a wart, it’s time to start treating it.

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How are warts removed?

Your doctor might suggest one of the following techniques, depending on the wart’s location, your symptoms, and your preferences. Sometimes these methods are used in combination with other treatments, such as salicylic acid home-application.

Salicylic acid application – It works by removing warts layers little by little. Studies show that salicylic acid is most effective when combined with cryotherapy.

Cryotherapy – Cryotherapy is performed by Dr. Bailey at FCP Dermatology and consists of applying liquid nitrogen to the wart. Cryotherapy involves creating a blister under and around the wart. The dead tissue then sloughs off within about a week. This method can also stimulate the immune system to fight viral warts. You may need to repeat the treatments. Side effects of cryotherapy include pain, blistering, and temporary skin discolouration in the treated area.

Surgical removal – If possible, some warts may be surgically removed with a scalpel by Dr. Bailey at FCP Dermatology. This technique offers the advantage of rapid wart removal, which can be beneficial in refractory cases or in isolated warts. However, these procedures are associated with high rates of bleeding, scarring, and bacterial infections, and a recurrence rate of approximately 90%.

Electrocautery – A small electric scalpel is used to burn the wart. It is less used than cryotherapy but can be convenient for some warts.

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What to expect during a wart removal

Before the procedure – Dr. Bailey will conduct a physical examination to diagnose your wart and decide the appropriate treatment.

During the procedure – In most cases, cryotherapy will be applied directly to the wart every month and you will be given an acid cream to use every night.

After the procedure – Patients are advised to cover the wart to avoid spreading it to other areas. Multiple visits are typically required to fully resolve the issue.

Ongoing Care

At FCP Dermatology we are dedicated to the ongoing care of our patients to provide you with the best results possible.

What are the side effects of wart removal treatment?

After the wart removal procedure, you may experience:

Local pain.
Erythema.
Burning skin sensation.
Blister

Most of these reactions are mild and easily resolved. Dr. Bailey will guide you on what to do in each case.

Specialists in Wart Removal Treatments

FCP Dermatology is your Toronto Dermatology Clinic! Learn more about wart removal treatments by contacting us!

Duration and treatment results of a wart removal

The average treatment duration is 10-15 minutes and does not require general anesthesia. Immediately after the procedure, you can comfortably return to your daily activities. Most warts are permanently removed after three to four treatments done 1 month apart. Approximately 20 to 30% of warts need a fifth treatment, and only 10% will need six or more treatments. There may be recurrences if you contract another strain of wart virus.