Warts Removal Treatment
Get rid of stubborn warts with our effective removal treatments—now Medisave claimable for your convenience! We offer safe and professional solutions to help you achieve clear, healthy skin.
Warts are small, fleshy growths that can be both unsightly and, at times, uncomfortable. They are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can infect the top layer of broken skin, causing an overgrowth of skin cells.
This results in the formation of a small, raised lesion that can vary in size, shape, and appearance.
TYPES OF WARTS
Common Warts
Typically found on the hands and fingers.
Plantar Warts
Appear on the soles of the feet and can be painful when walking.
Flat Warts
Smaller and smoother, usually appearing in clusters.
How are Warts formed?
Warts develop when the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) enters the body through a cut, scratch, or break in the skin. Once inside, the virus infects the upper layer of the skin, causing the skin cells to grow rapidly. This results in the formation of a raised bump or lesion known as a wart. The virus specifically targets the keratinocytes, the main cells found in the outer layer of the skin, leading to the thickening and hardening characteristic of warts.
HPV is highly contagious and thrives in warm, moist environments, such as public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. This makes the hands, feet, and other areas frequently exposed to such conditions more susceptible to infection. Certain strains of HPV are responsible for different types of warts, which can vary in their texture, size, and location
The type of wart that forms depends on the strain of HPV and the body part affected. Each strain can result in a unique appearance, which can make diagnosis important for proper treatment. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems or damaged skin are more likely to develop warts when exposed to the virus, as their bodies may struggle to fight off the infection.
Risk Factors for Developing Warts
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing warts, including:
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more prone to HPV infections.
Age: Children and teenagers are more susceptible to warts due to their developing immune systems.
Damaged Skin: Cuts, abrasions, or cracked skin provide easy entry points for the virus.
Frequenting Warm, Humid Environments: Using public pools or showers can heighten the risk.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR WARTS
At The Clifford Clinic, we provide a range of effective wart removal treatments to help you regain confidence in your skin:
1. Wart Excision
Wart excision is a surgical procedure that involves the precise removal of a wart by cutting it out. This method is particularly effective for stubborn warts that have not responded to other treatments.
Unlike some home remedies or over-the-counter methods that may increase the risk of infection or fail to remove the wart completely, wart excision requires the expertise of a skilled medical doctor to ensure safe and effective results. Using proper surgical tools and techniques, warts can be excised with minimal scarring and discomfort, making this a reliable option for those looking for a long-term solution.
The decision to perform wart excision depends largely on the location and type of wart. Certain warts, especially those that are large or located in sensitive areas, may require surgical removal to achieve the best outcome.
For these cases, a medical professional will evaluate the specific characteristics of the wart to determine the most suitable excision technique. Excision is often done as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia, ensuring that the patient remains comfortable while avoiding the risks associated with general anesthesia.
Types of Excisional Surgery
There are two main types of surgical excision for warts: Shave Removal and Scissor Excision (or Snip Excision).
Shave Removal is commonly used for warts that are elevated above the skin surface. During this procedure, a doctor uses a straight razor to shave off the wart, minimising damage to the surrounding skin. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area, reducing any discomfort during the procedure.
One of the benefits of shave removal is that it generally does not require stitches, resulting in less redness and scarring in the treated area. This technique is particularly well-suited for raised growths, including certain types of warts and moles.
Scissor Excision or Snip Excision is another method used for the precise removal of warts. In this technique, the area is numbed with local anesthetic before grasping the wart with forceps. The wart is then gently pulled away from the skin, allowing a curved scissor to cut beneath and around the growth, ensuring it is completely removed. Like shave removal, this method usually does not require stitches and leaves minimal scarring, making it a popular choice for warts that protrude above the skin.
2. Laser Excision
Laser excision is aneffective method for removing warts. The most commonly used laser for wart removal is the Pulsed-Dye Laser (PDL), which targets the blood vessels feeding the wart.
Via a concentrated beam of light, the laser heats the tiny blood vessels within the wart, causing them to collapse. Without a blood supply, the wart tissue dies off and eventually falls away. Additionally, the heat generated by the laser may directly attack the HPV virus, contributing to the wart’s destruction.
During the procedure, patients often describe the sensation as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. While the laser treatment itself might cause some mild discomfort, the pain usually subsides quickly after the procedure.
The treated area typically heals within 2 to 4 weeks, making this a relatively fast and convenient solution for wart removal.
One of the benefits of laser excision is its precision, allowing doctors to target the wart without causing significant damage to the surrounding tissue, making it a good option for patients dealing with clusters of warts or those in sensitive locations.
How Are Viral Warts Differentiated From Corns and Calluses?
Viral warts can sometimes be mistaken for corns or calluses due to their rough texture and appearance. However, warts often have small black dots (clotted blood vessels) at their center and may bleed when scratched.
Corns and calluses are simply thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction, not by a virus. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Complications of Viral Warts
While viral warts are generally harmless, they can lead to complications if left untreated:
Spread to Other Areas: Warts can multiply on your skin, becoming more challenging to treat.
Increased Risk of Infections: Scratching a wart can cause secondary bacterial infections.
Discomfort: Warts can become painful, particularly plantar warts that affect weight-bearing areas like the feet
What Happens if You Don’t Remove Warts?
If warts are not removed, they may continue to grow and spread, leading to increased discomfort or cosmetic concerns. In some cases, they can cause pain, especially if located in sensitive areas or subjected to frequent friction. Persistent warts may also increase the risk of passing the virus to others, making treatment a priority for your health and well-being.
Warts Removal are Medisave Claimable
Wart removal treatments are Medisave claimable, making it easier for you to access the care you need without financial stress. The exact amount would depend on the complexity of the procedure and it is based on a per surgery basis. Our team can guide you through the process to ensure a smooth claim experience.
Take the first step towards clearer skin by booking a consultation with us today. Let us help you choose the right treatment to restore your skin’s health and boost your confidence.
FAQ
Most wart removal treatments are minimally painful. Local anesthesia is typically used for procedures like excision to numb the area, while laser treatments might feel like a slight snapping sensation against the skin. Any discomfort is brief, and aftercare guidelines help to manage any sensitivity post-treatment.
The number of sessions depends on the size, depth, and location of the wart. Smaller warts may only require one session, while larger or stubborn warts may need multiple treatments to achieve complete removal.
After treatment, you may experience mild redness or scabbing in the treated area, which should resolve within a couple of weeks. Proper aftercare, including keeping the area clean and dry, will be advised to ensure optimal healing.
Once removed, warts typically do not return in the same location. However, since warts are caused by a virus (HPV), new warts may develop in different areas if the virus is still present. Good hygiene and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Yes, wart removal treatments are Medisave claimable, making it more affordable for patients seeking professional treatment. Our staff can guide you through the process to determine your eligibility for Medisave coverage.