What Causes Warts?
Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks and causes rapid cell growth on the outer layer of skin. Warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
While some warts resolve on their own over time, many persist for months or even years. Over-the-counter treatments often fall short, especially for plantar warts or warts in sensitive areas. Professional removal is faster, more effective, and reduces the chance of the wart spreading or recurring.
At St. George Dermatology, we offer several proven removal methods and match the approach to the type, size, and location of your warts for the best possible outcome.
Types of Warts
Common Warts
Rough, raised bumps most often found on fingers, hands, and around nails. They have a grainy texture and may show tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels).
Plantar Warts
Hard, flat growths on the soles of the feet that grow inward due to pressure from walking. They can be painful and feel like stepping on a pebble.
Flat Warts
Small, smooth, slightly raised warts that tend to appear in clusters on the face, neck, or legs. Common in children and young adults.
Periungual Warts
Warts that grow around and under fingernails or toenails. They can affect nail growth and become painful if left untreated.
Removal Methods
Cryotherapy
Liquid nitrogen freezes the wart, destroying the affected tissue. The most common in-office method, effective for most wart types in one to three sessions.
Electrosurgery & Curettage
The wart is burned with an electric current and scraped away. Ideal for common warts, filiform warts, and warts that haven't responded to freezing.
Topical Treatments
Prescription-strength salicylic acid or other chemical agents applied to gradually break down the wart tissue over several weeks.
Immunotherapy
For stubborn or recurring warts, we can stimulate your immune system to fight the virus using topical or injectable immunotherapy agents.
What to Expect
1
Examination
We examine the growth to confirm it's a wart and rule out other conditions. In rare cases, a small biopsy may be taken.
2
Treatment Selection
Based on wart type, location, and your medical history, we recommend the most effective removal method for your situation.
3
In-Office Removal
Most wart removals take just 15–30 minutes. Local anesthesia is used when needed to keep you comfortable throughout.
4
Aftercare & Follow-Up
You'll receive simple wound care instructions. Follow-up visits may be scheduled if additional sessions are needed.