Wart Removal

Wart removal is a common dermatological treatment designed to safely eliminate warts caused by infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Warts, also known as verrucae, are benign skin growths that can develop on almost any part of the body. Although they are generally harmless, they can become painful, spread to other areas, cause cosmetic concerns or prove resistant to over-the-counter treatments.

Types of warts

There are many different types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts (verrucae) affecting the soles of the feet, flat (plane) warts, filiform warts and mucosal warts affecting areas such as the lips or nostrils. The most appropriate treatment depends on the type of wart, its location, its size and how long it has been present.

Warts and the immune system

Although warts are caused by a viral infection, their presence does not usually indicate a problem with the immune system. However, individuals with weakened immunity may develop larger numbers of warts that can be more difficult to treat. During your consultation, Professor Firas Al-Niaimi carefully assesses the lesion to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment option.

First-line treatment

For many common warts, treatment may begin with topical salicylic acid preparations, which gradually soften and remove the infected skin. When used correctly with regular preparation of the wart surface, topical treatment can be highly effective, although several weeks or even months of treatment may be required before complete clearance is achieved.

Treatment for persistent warts

For more persistent or larger warts, advanced dermatological treatments may be recommended. Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the infected tissue and is one of the most commonly performed wart treatments. Filiform warts and selected lesions may be removed using curettage or shave excision, providing rapid and effective clearance in carefully selected cases.

Laser treatment for resistant warts

Professor Firas Al-Niaimi also offers advanced Pulsed Dye Laser and CO₂ laser treatments for resistant or recurrent warts. Vascular lasers work by targeting the blood supply that feeds the wart, while ablative lasers remove the infected tissue with exceptional precision. Laser treatment is particularly useful for stubborn warts that have failed to respond to conventional therapies or are located in cosmetically sensitive areas.

Number of sessions

The number of treatment sessions required varies depending on the type, size and location of the wart. Some lesions resolve after a single treatment, while thicker plantar warts or multiple lesions may require several sessions. Throughout treatment, Professor Firas provides comprehensive aftercare advice to minimise recurrence and promote optimal healing.

Expertise

Professor Firas Al-Niaimi is an internationally recognised consultant dermatologist with extensive experience in the treatment of viral skin lesions. He has published scientific research on laser treatment for warts and regularly uses the latest evidence-based techniques to provide safe, effective and personalised wart removal for both adults and children.