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What is a wart? Warts are skin growths that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many different kinds of HPV, and only some of them cause actual growths on the skin. While these growths can occur anywhere on the body, most are found on fingers, hands, feet, the face, and in some cases, genitals.
Most warts are harmless and benign, and usually go away without treatment (although it might take a while – usually a year or two to completely go away). However, some warts might become painful or uncomfortable. In such cases, you may want to try to treat them using over-the-counter remedies. If such remedies do not work, surgical removal may be for you.
All surgeries, whether they be big or small, carry risks. For wart removal surgery, these typically include:
Risks of Surgery
You may need to take antibiotics before surgery. Routine blood work is usually not needed but may be ordered prior to surgery based on the patient's age and the presence of any existing medical problems.
Wart removal is a minor kind of surgery, and is done on an outpatient basis (you will be able to go home after the surgery is completed). Before your surgery, a nurse or doctor will plan the site, clean the affected area, and consult with you for any questions you may have. Then, they will numb the wart using a local anesthetic so that you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.
The procedure itself can last anywhere between a few minutes to an hour depending on how many warts are to be removed. Typically, your doctor will give you a heads up on how long the procedure should last.
Your surgeon will use an instrument like a scalpel or special scissors to remove the actual wart(s) and surrounding tissue if necessary. If you feel any pain or discomfort, be sure to let your surgeon know. Once the wart(s) are removed, the wound is usually closed using stitches. Sometimes, the surgeon will opt for natural healing and stitches will not be used.
Recovery time for wart removal will vary, but you should feel back to normal within a few days to weeks depending on whether or not you received stitches. Be sure to keep the area clean and dry to avoid the possibility of infection. Itchiness or soreness is common, however let your doctor know if you experience swelling or excessive pain.
You will need to arrange for a ride home the day of your surgery and we recommend someone stay with you for the first 24 hours at home. When you leave the facility after surgery, we will want you to go home and rest. Avoid making any other plans on the day of your surgery. Starting the following day, you can increase your activity as you feel up to it.
You will likely be given a prescription for pain medication following your surgery. The recovery nurse will discuss a pain control plan following surgery specific to you and your needs including activities like ice applied over incisions and a medication regimen. Often times we will recommend taking Tylenol and Advil (same as Motrin, Ibuprofen) or Aleve in addition to the narcotic pain medication.
Lastly, know that there is a high likelihood you will be left with some kind of scar.
Did you know we have a support group?
Your questions and concerns have most likely been asked and answered in our support group. Moderated by our dietitians, nurses, and staff. We provide you with reliable patient education and resources to help you throughout this life-changing process.