How are plantar warts treated by foot specialists. What are the most effective methods for removing warts on the bottom of the foot. Which plantar wart removal options are available at specialized clinics. How long does it take to completely eradicate plantar warts.

Understanding Plantar Warts: Causes and Symptoms

Plantar warts are a common foot condition that affects many individuals, both children and adults. These pesky growths occur on the bottom of the foot, often causing discomfort and pain when walking or standing. But what exactly causes plantar warts?

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the body through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. The pressure from walking and standing can cause these warts to grow inward, making them particularly difficult to treat.

Common symptoms of plantar warts include:

• Small, rough growths on the soles of the feet
• Black dots in the center of the wart (often called “wart seeds”)
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
• Thickened skin over the affected area

Can plantar warts go away on their own? While some plantar warts may resolve without treatment, many require professional intervention to prevent spreading and alleviate discomfort.

Professional Plantar Wart Removal: The Process

Seeking professional help for plantar wart removal is often the most effective way to deal with this condition. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the typical process:

1. Book an appointment with a foot specialist or chiropodist
2. Undergo a thorough assessment and diagnosis of the wart
3. Receive initial treatment and debridement of the affected area
4. Schedule follow-up appointments for continued treatment

Is regular treatment necessary for plantar wart removal? Yes, most cases require multiple treatments spaced 2-3 weeks apart for complete eradication. The number of sessions needed depends on the size and number of warts present.

Prescription Topical Solutions: A Non-Invasive Approach

One of the least invasive methods for treating plantar warts is the use of prescription topical solutions. These typically contain high-strength salicylic acid, which works by gradually softening and shedding layers of affected skin.

Benefits of prescription topical solutions include:

• Minimal discomfort during treatment
• Can be applied at home between clinic visits
• Suitable for those who prefer a gentler approach

Are prescription topical solutions as effective as other treatments? While they can be effective, this method may take longer to produce results compared to more aggressive treatments.

Cryotherapy: Freezing Away Plantar Warts

Cryotherapy is a popular and highly effective method for removing plantar warts. This quick, non-invasive procedure involves applying a freezing substance, typically liquid nitrogen, to the wart.

The process of cryotherapy treatment includes:

1. Application of liquid nitrogen to the wart
2. Formation of a blister around the treated area
3. Drying and falling off of the blister, along with the wart
4. Repeat treatments every 2-3 weeks until complete removal

Does cryotherapy hurt? While some discomfort may be experienced during treatment, it is usually temporary and often lessens with each subsequent session. Local anesthesia can be applied if needed, but it’s typically not necessary.

Cantharone Treatment: Blistering for Wart Removal

Cantharone and Cantharone Plus are potent topical solutions used in the treatment of plantar warts. The active ingredient, Cantharidin, works by creating a blister over the wart, effectively separating it from the surrounding skin.

The Cantharone treatment process involves:

1. Application of the solution directly to the wart
2. Sealing the treated area with special tape
3. Keeping the area dry for 24 hours post-treatment
4. Blister formation within 24-48 hours
5. Drying and falling off of the blister and wart

How long does it take to heal after Cantharone treatment? Healing is usually complete within 4 to 7 days, but multiple treatments may be necessary for complete wart removal.

Advanced Treatments: Needling and Excision

For more stubborn or extensive plantar warts, foot specialists may recommend more advanced treatments such as needling or excision.

Needling

Needling is a technique that involves puncturing the wart multiple times with a sterile needle. This process aims to stimulate the body’s immune response to fight off the virus causing the wart.

Excision

In some cases, surgical excision may be necessary. This involves cutting out the wart and surrounding tissue under local anesthesia. While effective, this method is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed.

Are these advanced treatments more effective than other methods? While needling and excision can be highly effective, they are usually considered only after less invasive options have been exhausted.

Insurance Coverage for Plantar Wart Removal

Many individuals wonder about the financial aspects of plantar wart treatment. The good news is that most private insurance plans cover plantar wart removal treatments.

To ensure coverage:

• Check with your insurance provider about specific coverage details
• Inquire about any required referrals or pre-authorizations
• Keep all treatment documentation for reimbursement purposes

What if my insurance doesn’t cover wart removal? Some clinics may offer payment plans or sliding scale fees for those without coverage. It’s always best to discuss financial concerns with the clinic before beginning treatment.

Preventing Plantar Wart Recurrence

After successful treatment, preventing the recurrence of plantar warts is crucial. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of future infections:

• Keep feet clean and dry
• Wear flip-flops in public showers and locker rooms
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Don’t share socks, shoes, or towels with others
• Maintain a strong immune system through a healthy lifestyle

Can plantar warts come back after treatment? While treatment can effectively remove existing warts, it doesn’t make you immune to future HPV infections. Following prevention strategies is key to reducing the risk of recurrence.

In conclusion, plantar warts can be a persistent and uncomfortable foot condition, but with professional treatment and proper care, they can be effectively managed and removed. Whether through topical solutions, cryotherapy, or more advanced techniques, foot specialists have a range of tools at their disposal to help patients find relief from plantar warts. By understanding the treatment options available and taking steps to prevent future infections, individuals can maintain healthy, wart-free feet and enjoy improved comfort in their daily activities.

Wart Removal | Foot Specialist Toronto

On This Page

Overview |
The Process |
Treatment Options |
Insurance & Coverage

Overview

How Does Feet First Clinic Remove Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts (warts on the bottom of the foot) are super common; they are also a super bother.  Fortunately, the chiropodists at our clinic provide the following wart removal treatments (in order of invasiveness) for children and adults:

• Prescription Topical Solutions  
• Cryotherapy
• Cantharone/Cantharone Plus
• Needling 
• Excision

It usually takes multiple treatments to fully eradicate plantar warts.  

For more information about the above treatments, please see the “Treatment Options” section below.

Most private insurers will cover plantar wart removal treatments.  See the “Insurance & Coverage” section below for more information.

The Process

How Do I Get Treatment?

We treat plantar warts at all stages in children and adults. To start the treatment process:

1. Contact our office to book an appointment for wart removal:  You can fill out our online booking form, or contact us at 416-769-3338. As warts are treated over several appointments, we may also book you for follow-up treatments at this time. 
2. At your appointment, the chiropodist will diagnose and assess the wart, debride it, and then determine the best course of treatment (see the next section for more information about available treatment options at Feet First Clinic).  
3. After your treatment, follow-up treatments will be booked approximately 2-3 weeks apart. Warts are usually treated over the course of several treatments until it is fully eradicated.

We strongly recommend pre-booking your follow-up treatments to ensure appointment availability and that your treatment is not interrupted. Having treatments too far apart may impact the effectiveness of the treatment.

The number of treatments required often depends on the size and number of warts involved.

Treatment Options

What Treatments Do You Offer for Plantar Warts?

People respond differently to different wart removal treatments, so it is important to find which one works best for you. In general, the more aggressive the treatment, the quicker the resolution and higher the success rate.

Treating plantar warts is a process; it typically requires multiple treatments approximately 2-3 weeks apart. Plantar warts often cannot be successfully instantly removed with one treatment. 

The following are some treatment options your chiropodist may discuss with you (from least to most aggressive):

Prescription Topical Solutions (Salicylic Acid)

A chiropodist can prescribe a high-strength salicylic acid topical solution that you can apply regularly at home. It works by softening the skin and helping shed layers of skin and wart bit by bit.  You would then come in for follow-up visits to see how treatment is progressing. Salicylic Acid is a relatively painless option for wart removal; however it can sometimes take longer than other treatments.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a standard, quick, highly effective and non-invasive method for removing plantar warts.  The chiropodist applies a freezing substance (usually liquid nitrogen) to the wart with a cotton swab or spray, which freezes and kills the wart and all affected tissue.  A blister then forms around the wart; when the blister dries up over the next few days, the wart may fall off.

The treatment is repeated every 2 to 3 weeks until the wart is fully removed. The number of treatments required depends on the size and number of warts.  Cryotherapy also stimulates the immune system to fight off the virus.  The treatment itself takes less than a minute.  It may cause some pain, but the pain is temporary and usually lessens with each treatment. A local anesthetic can be applied beforehand to numb any pain, but it is usually not needed.

Cantharone/Cantharone Plus

Cantharone is a potent topical solution applied directly to the wart that works by forming a blister over the skin and underlying wart. The active ingredient is Cantharidin, a blistering agent that breaks down the skin’s outer layers all the way down to the wart. This separates the wart from the skin covering it and brings the wart to the surface. When the liquid dries, the wart is covered and sealed with a special tape.

It is recommended to keep the area dry and covered for up to 24 hours after treatment.  A blister then forms within 24 to 48 hours.  The blister then dries over the next few days and the wart falls off.  Healing is usually complete within 4 to 7 days.  The treatment is repeated until the wart is fully removed.

Although the treatment itself isn’t painful, the resulting blister may be uncomfortable. For more information, see the video below:

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Wart Needling

Needling is a simple, but more invasive wart removal procedure.  A local anesthetic is first applied to numb the area.  The wart is then punctured with a sterile needle approximately 100 times.  This pushes the virus further into the body, which triggers an immune response to help your body fight off the virus that causes plantar warts.  If the procedure is successful, your body’s immune response will fight off any other warts and make them go away.

Needling is often used for people with multiple warts or clusters (mosaic plantar warts), or for particularly stubborn cases of plantar warts that resist other less invasive treatments.  It is about 70% effective.

For more information, see the video below or visit our Surgical Procedures page.

 

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Excision

Excision is a surgical procedure used for plantar warts that resist other treatments.  The foot is first numbed with a local anesthetic.  Then, as the name implies, the wart is cut away (or “excised”) from the skin.  The base is also cauterized to ensure no living viral tissue is left behind.  There is a risk of scarring, so this method isn’t used unless other treatments have failed. For more information, see the Surgical Procedures page.

Insurance & Coverage

Wart treatment by a chiropodist is not covered by OHIP; however most private insurers will cover it.

If you are unsure about your benefits and coverage for chiropodist services, you can contact your insurance company directly, or check with your employer’s HR department to receive a breakdown of your policy.  

We recommend verifying your benefits coverage directly with your insurance company prior to your appointment. 

To book an appointment for wart removal, you can fill out our online form or contact us at 416-769-3338.

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January 30, 2023

Managing Plantar Warts in Children: A Guide for Parents

As a parent, your children’s health is a top priority. When it comes to their feet, it may be trickier to tell whether anything is wrong. Our feet are often covered; even then, certain conditions can be tricky to recognize.

Plantar warts can be a painful and unsightly problem, especially in children. But don’t worry – you’re not alone as a parent. Fortunately, plantar warts aren’t severe. Most of the time, there is no cause for concern. Several effective treatment methods exist for children and teenagers, who are particularly susceptible to getting plantar warts.

Many types of warts exist. They can also target various parts of the body. Wart variations include common warts, flat warts, mosaic warts, filiform warts, and plantar warts. Warts on the feet are the focus of this article.

In this blog article, our medical team provides a complete guide for parents to recognize, prevent, and effectively treat plantar warts in children. With this guide, there’s no need to let plantar warts interfere with your child’s active lifestyle.
What are plantar warts?


Plantar warts are viral skin infections that grow on the feet’s underside. HPV (human papillomavirus) causes plantar warts. HPV can infiltrate the body through skin contact, sometimes via a cut or break in the skin on foot. It’s important to note that only certain types of HPV cause plantar warts. After all, there are 100+ types of the virus. (The HPV strain responsible for plantar warts differs from the HPV that targets the reproductive tract.)

Plantar warts get their name because of their location (plantar is another word for the sole of the foot).

The warts are small, flat, and hard circular growths. Plantar warts resemble a corn, callus or blister but may also contain tiny black spots. Bearing weight (like when you walk or run) adds pressure to the wart. The added pressure against the bottom of your foot causes the wart to grow inward. Thus, walking or standing on warts may also hurt. In response, your body builds a layer of skin on top of the wart to try to protect itself. This skin buildup resembles a callus.

Plantar warts are not a skin condition specific to the youth. Anyone can get plantar warts. They are not a severe health condition and may go away independently, especially in children under 12. However, they are contagious. It’s best to treat plantar warts as soon as possible to prevent spreading to other body parts.

If left untreated, warts can last a few months to two years in children.
How do children get plantar warts?


Children get plantar warts by catching a specific type of HPV. The virus enters the body through direct contact between the skin and an infected surface. Since viruses thrive in warm, moist areas, shared spaces like spas, hot tubs, pools, or showers put children at risk.

Not everyone who catches the HPV strain gets plantar warts. Your immune system may be able to fend off the attack. If not, a plantar wart may surface.
Are children more likely to get plantar warts?


Yes, children and teenagers are more likely to get plantar warts than adults. According to the National Library of Medicine, various studies show that up to 33% of children and teenagers have warts. Between 3-5% of adults, by comparison, have warts.

Children and teenagers may be more likely to get plantar warts because of their environment. For instance, children and teenagers often use communal showers at pools or in locker rooms. If one child has a plantar wart, they may spread the virus to others. In some cases, children and teenagers may also get plantar warts due to a weakened immune system.
How can a parent help a child get rid of plantar warts?


A parent has several treatment options for their child if the child gets plantar warts. One is to allow plantar warts to go away on their own. Warts sometimes disappear in a few weeks or a few months on their own. During this period, parents should take precautions to avoid children spreading plantar warts to other body parts and people.

But warts can be uncomfortable (and aesthetically displeasing), and may persist or even spread and multiply. In these instances, a parent or child may desire more immediate action. Fortunately, that’s doable.

A chiropodist or foot doctor can provide wart removal treatments. For children, parents may prefer less invasive treatment methods. We’ve ranked various treatment methods from less intrusive to more intrusive.

Prescription Topical Solutions  
Cryotherapy
Cantharone/Cantharone Plus
Needling 
Excision

How do I prevent my children from getting plantar warts?


The key as a parent is to limit your child’s exposure to HPV when in shared spaces. Fortunately, there are many measures you can take.

Provide your child with sandals at school, the pool, or practice. Limiting their time barefoot in a locker room, a shower, or on deck at the pool can reduce their chances of catching HPV.
Encourage healthy foot hygiene. Use positive reinforcement and teach your child to keep their feet clean and dry.
Do not use instruments like pumice stones or nail files if previously used on a wart.
Inspect your child’s feet. Minor cuts or cracks in the skin put your child at greater risk of catching the plantar wart-causing virus. Apply a bandage or waterproof plaster on the area to reduce their exposure
If your child partakes in activities requiring them to be barefoot, like gymnastics or dance, cover any warts with a bandage to preventspreading to other children.

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September 15, 2022

Causes of Plantar Warts and Solutions

Warts can occur anywhere on your body. These small, circular growths are a type of skin infection that stand out because of their roughness, slight discolouration, and sometimes pain. When it comes to your feet, the soles are a common place for warts. This skin condition is known as plantar warts.
Although warts on your feet are a common occurrence, this condition comes with very treatable solutions. From self-care remedies to visiting a foot specialist, the scale of treatment methods varies based on the persistence level of warts. If you’re looking to avoid plantar warts altogether, learn about what causes them, or how to get rid of them, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we explore plantar warts, their causes, how to get rid of plantar warts, and finally how to book an appointment with a foot specialist if you have persistent plantar warts.


What are plantar warts?
Plantar warts are common viral skin infections that grow on the bottom of the feet. They are small, flat, and hard circular growths that look like a corn, callus or blister. Walking puts pressure on the wart, which makes it grow inward and builds a hard layer of skin overtop. Applying pressure to plantar warts (walking, standing, or running) may be uncomfortable, if not painful.

Anyone can get plantar warts: they are not a severe health condition and sometimes go away on their own. However, they are contagious. If they persist, they can grow, spread and cause foot pain when you stand or walk on them.
What causes plantar warts?


Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes foot warts by infecting the foot’s outer layer of skin. HPVs are a group of more than 200 related viruses. In the case of plantar warts, the strain of HPV causing this foot condition is not severe and varies from the strain that infects the reproductive tract. If you think plantar warts and herpes or genital warts, are related, don’t worry – the HPV strains are different.

Usually, the virus enters the skin through a perforation like a cut or small breaks in the skin. Frequenting high-traffic common areas like showers, change rooms, and pool decks increase your likelihood of contracting the HPV that causes warts because the virus can spread more easily in these areas. Understandably, the wart-causing virus thrives in warm, moist environments. (This can be said for several other foot conditions, actually, including athlete’s foot.) Wearing Crocs or flip-flops will help lessen your chances of catching this virus by ensuring your bare feet do not come in contact with the virus.

Children and teenagers are more likely to get plantar warts because of their hobbies; additionally, those with weakened immune systems are at heightened risk. That said, like many foot conditions, anyone can get plantar warts.

So, what happens when you get plantar warts? Fortunately, there are several treatment options, including DIY methods as well as visiting a foot specialist.
Plantar warts treatments


Sometimes, plantar warts will treat themselves and go away with time. If that’s not the case, a foot specialist like a chiropodist can easily remove plantar warts. There are also different treatments depending on how resistant the wart is to certain methods. For instance, if the wart is not responding to one treatment, a more aggressive treatment may be tried.

Regardless of the treatment method you choose, it’s best to follow these practices:

Cover the wart to help prevent it from spreading to either other people or another part of your body
Wash your hands any time you touch the wart, accidentally or intentionally

Below you’ll find a mix of at-home treatment methods and procedures done by a foot specialist at a local clinic:

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a method by which extreme cold is used to freeze and remove a plantar wart. This procedure is quick and easy, and generally low risk. Instead of cryotherapy performed in a cold tank, this kind is slightly different and more concentrated. Cold therapy is performed via liquid nitrogen on a cotton swab. This treatment is performed every two weeks, and often requires several treatments to eradicate the wart.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is a topical medication that is applied to the wart. It softens the skin and helps shed layers of skin (and the wart) bit by bit. It is found in many over-the-counter wart removal products, and a chiropodist can prescribe a high-strength salicylic acid topical solution that you can apply regularly at home. The higher the dose of salicylic acid, the better its treatment.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment involves cauterizing blood vessels. Ouch, that sounds intense. But, your medical practitioner will numb your skin first. To be effective, this treatment can be repeated every 2-4 weeks.

Blister-inducing medicine



 










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A foot specialist can help induce a blister under the wart by applying cantharidin, a type of burn agent. This is applied every 2 to 3 weeks by a chiropodist. The cantharidin forms a blister over the wart and separates the wart from the skin covering it and brings the wart to the surface. The blister then dries over the next few days and the wart falls off.  The treatment is repeated until the wart is fully removed.

Needling

Needling is a simple, but more invasive wart removal procedure with roughly 70% effectiveness. After a local anesthetic is administered, a specialist punctures the wart with a sterile needle about 100 times. This method pushes the HPV away from the surface of the skin and internally where an immune reaction is triggered. If successful, your body’s immune system will do the rest.



 










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Excision

Excision is used for plantar warts that resist other treatments. The foot is first numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, as the name implies, the wart is cut away (or “excised”) from the skin. The base is also cauterized to ensure no living viral tissue is left behind.  There is a risk of scarring, so this method isn’t used unless other treatments have failed.

Duct tape

Duct tape is a common yet relatively unproven method for treating plantar warts (largely because plantar warts can disappear on their own, which makes it difficult to attribute to the treatment method). This DIY method relies on suffocating the plantar wart and stripping away the outer layer of the skin to help rid the virus.

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July 16, 2021

Healthy Feet When Swimming

Get out your swimsuits – it’s time to go swimming! Indoor and outdoor swimming pools just reopened today in Toronto! Given that we are also in the warmth of summer, family pools are open and beaches and lakes are being swarmed by eager swimmers (and sun worshippers).

Swimming is not only a great family activity; it is also fantastic exercise – especially for people with joint and foot pain. It is one of the lowest impact forms of physical activity, which makes it accessible and suitable for people of all ages. Whether you’re doing an aqua-fit class or laps around the pool, swimming is a fun and low-risk way to strengthen your joints and muscles, which is the best way to treat common foot conditions and foot pain, like arthritis, metatarsalgia and Morton’s neuroma. And best of all, you can do it while enjoying the beautiful summer weather.

However, keeping your feet healthy when you go swimming, particularly in public pools, has many considerations. We are at a higher risk of contracting Plantar Warts, Athlete’s Foot, and other fungal infections in public spaces. (Also consider chlorine’s drying and irritating effects on your skin.) Keeping your hygiene practices is therefore crucial for healthy feet when swimming.

Below, we will give you the lowdown on common foot conditions that can affect you when you go swimming, and how you can treat and prevent them. We’ll also give you some tips for good foot hygiene when you go swimming.


Plantar Warts
A plantar wart is a common viral skin infection. It presents as a small, rough growth on sole of the foot, and looks like a solid blister or small callus. They are usually caused by HPV, a virus carried by 2% of the population. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, so a public pool is ideal for a plantar wart to grow – especially those wet puddles on deck and in the locker room. To protect yourself from getting plantar warts, it is wise to wear flip-flops or some other kind of footwear when you are in the locker room, on deck and in the showers (you don’t need to wear them in the pool). If you already have plantar warts, wearing footwear in these places will also help prevent spreading the virus to other people.

Plantar warts usually affect children and teenagers more because they do more activities in high-risk places. However, healthy adults can contract them as well. Anyone immunocompromised is also more at risk.

If you do get plantar warts, our Chiropodists at Feet First Clinic can help you. We facilitate different treatments depending on the severity of the situation.


Athlete’s Foot & Other Fungal Infections
Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection caused by dermatophytes. Sweaty feet from activity cultivates the growth of athlete’s foot (hence the name). Fungal infections like athlete’s foot thrive and reproduce in warm, moist environments. Thus they are very commonly found in public places like locker rooms or the pool deck, where there are lots of people walking around with sweaty, wet feet. If you or other visitors develop athlete’s foot and go barefoot in these places, you risk transmitting it to others. In fact, fungal infections are much more contagious and difficult to treat than plantar warts.

To prevent or combat foot fungus, you need to enlist proper hygiene tactics. For starters, make sure you thoroughly wash your feet, ideally before and after swimming (between the toes too!). This will make your feet a less friendly environment for bacteria and fungal growth, and can help eliminate any newly acquired bacteria or fungus before it sets up shop on your feet.

It is also advisable to wear flip-flops or some other kind of lightweight footwear in locker rooms, showers and on the decks of public swimming pools. One idea would be to invest in a pair of swimming shoes. You can take these from the pool to the lake. They are also great if you are combing around rocky shores.

Click here for more information about how to avoid Athlete’s Foot.

If you do acquire a fungal infection in your foot, you can visit our clinic and store to find the right anti-fungal treatment. 

Foot Hygiene for Swimmers
Proper hygiene for your feet is the best way to deal with the threat of plantar warts or athlete’s foot. You want to enjoy summer, and spend your time swimming, not dealing with foot issues. 

The drying and irritating effects of chlorine on your skin is also something to consider. Dry feet can break up the skin in our feet and around our toenails. This provides a point of entry for fungal infections.

But don’t worry; this is an easy fix. Below are our top tips for good foot hygiene when you go swimming:

Cleanse your feet regularly, and before and after swimming. Make sure you also get between the toes, where moisture can easily get trapped, and dry your feet thoroughly afterwards.
Use an anti-bacterial foot powder or medicated foot cream afterwards. We recommend Gehwol’s Foot Powder: It has zinc-oxide, which has antimicrobial and skin protecting properties, as well as clotrimazole, which is proven to prevent fungal infections. You can dust some of this powder directly on your feet, in your socks, or in your shoes.
Moisturize your feet regularly, and especially after swimming. Our skin’s natural protective properties are weakened when they’re wet. Moisturizing strengthens them. For a one-size-fits all solution, try Gerlachs Gehwol Extra Universal Foot Cream. It thoroughly moisturizes and disinfects your feet. It can also help you with corns, calluses, and blisters.
Tend to your toenails and cuticles. The space on the sides of our toenails are a favoured entry point for fungal infections, so keeping it in tact is essential. We recommend Gehwol Fusskraft Soft Nail and Skin Protection Spray. It preserves the skin and nail’s natural protective properties, and strengthens them. It also contains bisabolol and clotrimazole to help protect the skin and nails against fungal infection. It’s so effective that the chiropodists use it in our clinic during treatments.
Treat yourself to a foot bath. After a day in the water, a foot bath intensely cleanses your feet (it also feels super nice!). For a refreshing foot bath that will also help fight foot odour and foot sweat, we recommend Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Bath.



Keep Healthy Feet When Swimming
At Feet First, we love summer, and we are big fans of swimming. Public pools and their communities offer many opportunities for exercise and socialization for people of all ages and mobilities. By keeping your feet hygiene up and visiting us if you encounter any issues with plantar warts or foot fungus, we are here to help get you back in the pool! Call us today and book your appointment or learn more about the products we carry at 416.769.3338 (FEET.)

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Plantar Warts – Foot and Ankle Podiatrists

Plantar Wart Therapy In Algonquin, IL

Foot and Ankle Specialists aren’t just restricted to the inner workings of the feet. We also specialize in ailments that affect the skin in the foot and ankle area. Warts are an extremely prevalent condition around the world, affecting roughly 10% of the population at some point in their lives. This page aims to explore plantar warts, what causes them, and what your treatment options are.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are raised, painful lesions on the bottom of the foot due to a viral infection acquired underneath the skin. Although warts can be seen throughout the body, they are very common on the bottom of the foot. These are generally due to HPV (human papillomavirus). Even a small, unnoticed break in the skin can allow for the virus to penetrate the foot. This then causes painful lesions that are very difficult to eradicate unless accurately diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist. Plantar warts can appear individually or within a cluster. The latter of which is called “mosaic warts.” They generally appear as callused lesions with black pin-point dots underneath which is a typical hallmark sign of a plantar wart. Skin lines also tend to traverse around the lesion and there is increased pain with squeezing of the lesion.

What Are The Causes?

There are various causes that can be attributed to the development and progression of plantar warts. Common causes can stem from the patient’s bony anatomy to faulty biomechanics that causes the joints to become arthritic over time. Depending on how you walk, the joint can be over-utilized and cause the underlying cartilage to become damaged. Additional injuries and trauma can be attributed to the progression of plantar warts as well. In addition to extrinsic factors, a patient may have systemic issues that can also affect the integrity of the joint. Inflammatory arthropathies such as psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can be implicated in the development of hallux rigidus. In any case, it is crucial for your surgeon to determine the underlying cause of underlying arthritis before pursuing definitive treatment.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of plantar warts is generally clinical. Occasionally, lesions that are suspicious or do not fit the dermatological criteria of a plantar wart will be biopsied by your foot and ankle surgeon and sent to a pathology lab where a definitive diagnosis can be made.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Depending on the location and severity of plantar warts, there are a multitude of treatments that can be administered to eradicate the wart for good. Our podiatrists can determine the best course of treatment for your condition and symptoms.

Cryotherapy And Application Of Topical Salicylic Acid

Your podiatrist will shave the lesion down as much as possible before freezing it with liquid nitrogen in the office. You will then apply topical salicylic acid on the lesion daily and follow-up with your physician every 2 weeks until progress is made.

Surgical Excision With CO2 Laser Ablation

This procedure is performed in the operating room under anesthesia. The wart will be surgically excised and a CO2 laser will be utilized to ablate the viral cells under the skin to hopefully ensure that the wart does not return. There will be several weeks of wound care and weight-bearing restrictions post-surgery depending on the severity and location of the wart.

In-Office Microwave Treatment Wart Removal

The newest technology in our office, Swift Microwave Therapy, utilizes microwaves to heat the lesions quickly and stimulate an immune response that will eradicate the wart. The treatment takes 10 seconds total, causing little to no discomfort. It also does not require any home wound care or medication application. The procedure is done a total of 3 times spaced 4 weeks apart. Initial anecdotal evidence shows this procedure to be superior to others regarding the permanent removal of warts.

Plantar Warts Are Painful, Removing Them Can Be Painless!

One of our specialists will discuss all options with you and determine the best treatment course. The treatment course will be based on the severity and location of your plantar warts. With advances in technology and our state-of-the-art equipment, we offer treatment that makes removing plantar warts easy and painless. Call or book an appointment online with the Foot And Ankle Specialists Of Illinois today!

Find out how to effectively get rid of warts on your feet

Contents

• 1 Warts on your feet
  • 1.1 What are warts on your feet?
  • 1.2 Why is it important to get rid of warts?
  • 1.3 What treatments are available for warts?
  • 1. 4 Topical preparations
  • 1.5 Cryotherapy
  • 1.6 Laser removal
  • 1.7 Chemical methods of disposal
  • 1.8 Radio wave therapy
  • 1.9 Surgical removal
  • 1.10 How do you keep your feet healthy and clear after wart removal?
  • 1.11 How to avoid the reappearance of warts?
  • 1.12 How do I find the right wart specialist?
  • 1.13 Related videos:
  • 1.14 Q&A:
    • • 1.14.0.1 What methods effectively help to get rid of warts on the legs?
      • 1.14.0.2 What medicines can be used to treat warts on the legs?
      • 1.14.0.3 What role does prevention play in getting rid of warts on the feet?
      • 1.14.0.4 What additional remedies help to get rid of warts on the legs?
  • 1.15 Reviews

Warts on the legs: types, causes, methods of treatment and removal. Find out how to get rid of warts on your feet painlessly and effectively.

Warts on the feet are a common condition that can cause discomfort and cosmetic problems. Although they are not usually dangerous to health, their presence on the plantar surface of the foot or toes can cause pain when walking.

Fortunately, there are several effective ways to get rid of warts on your feet. One of the most common methods is the use of special preparations containing salicylic acid or urea. These substances can help break down the top layer of the wart and speed up its disappearance.

More radical treatments such as cryotherapy or surgical removal of the wart are also options. Cryotherapy is based on freezing warts with liquid nitrogen, which leads to their death and subsequent rejection. Surgical removal of warts is the fastest and most effective way to get rid of them, but this decision must be made by a doctor.

What are warts on the legs?

Warts on the feet are growths that develop on the skin of the feet or toes. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and belong to the group of dermatological diseases.

Warts on the legs can be of various sizes and shapes. They usually look like hard lumps and may have black dots in the center, which is a sign of blood vessels.

These growths often cause discomfort and pain when walking or wearing shoes. They can be contagious and spread when the skin of the feet comes into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as in public swimming pools or locker rooms.

Even if warts on the feet do not cause physical discomfort, they can be an aesthetic defect and cause discomfort and embarrassment in people, especially when visiting public places or beaches.

Why is it important to get rid of warts?

Warts on the feet can cause discomfort and pain when walking. They can lead to a change in the appearance of the legs, which can be psychologically unpleasant for a person.

Warts are an infectious disease caused by a group of human papillomaviruses (HPV). HPV is one of the most common viral infections in the world and warts can be a source of transmission. Therefore, getting rid of warts not only helps keep your feet healthy, but also prevents the virus from spreading to other people.

Warts on the feet can also be a source of psychological discomfort and social insecurity. People may be embarrassed to show their legs in public because of warts, which can negatively affect their self-esteem and self-respect.

Getting rid of warts on the legs has medical value. Some types of warts can turn into malignant tumors, such as skin cancer. Therefore, it is important not to ignore warts, especially if they increase in size, change color or shape.

What treatments are available for warts?

Warts are a contagious skin disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on different parts of the body, including the legs. If you have been diagnosed with warts on your feet, it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.

There are several treatments for warts. One of them is the use of local preparations. These are creams, solutions, or patches that contain substances that can destroy the virus and remove the wart. Such drugs should be used strictly according to the instructions to avoid burns or skin irritation. They can be effective but take some time to achieve results.

Another treatment is cryotherapy, or “freezing” the wart. This process consists in applying liquid nitrogen or gas to the wart. Extremely low temperatures cause the wart to freeze and break down. Freezing can be an effective treatment, but may cause some discomfort and require repeated procedures.

Another popular treatment for warts is surgical removal. The doctor may perform surgery to remove the wart using local anesthesia. This method can be effective, especially for large or persistent warts. However, after surgery, it may take some time for the wound to heal, and scarring or burns may occur.

In some cases, laser wart removal can also be used. This method is based on the use of a laser beam to burn and remove warts. The laser procedure can be effective and accurate, but requires special equipment and a skilled technician.

Consult your doctor before using any method of wart treatment. It will help to determine the optimal method and carry out treatment taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.

Topicals

Topicals (topical) is one of the most common ways to get rid of warts on the feet. They are ointments, gels, creams or solutions that are applied directly to the damaged area.

One of the most popular topical preparations is salicylic acid. It helps dissolve the wart and reduces its size. For best results, regularly apply salicylic acid to the affected area and protect it with a patch.

Liquid nitrogen is another effective topical preparation that is used to remove warts. This method is called cryotherapy. With the help of the device, a small amount of liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart, which leads to freezing and destruction of its tissues.

In addition, there are special medicated patches that contain acid or wood hedophyllin that can soften the wart and help remove it. Such patches are glued to the affected area for a certain time, after which the wart is removed.

Consultation with a physician before using topical preparations is recommended in order to prevent possible side effects and to evaluate the appropriate method of treatment depending on the individual characteristics of the organism.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment method based on the use of low temperatures to destroy warts on the legs. It is based on the use of liquid nitrogen or special devices that can cool the affected area to very low temperatures.

The cryotherapy procedure is quite simple and does not cause much discomfort. The doctor applies liquid nitrogen or an apparatus to the wart, and the temperature can reach about -196 degrees Celsius. As a result of low temperatures, the wart freezes and dies.

Cryotherapy is an effective way to get rid of warts on the legs. It usually requires several sessions to completely remove the warts. According to research results, this treatment method is one of the most effective and safe.

However, it is important to consult with your doctor before using cryotherapy to make sure it is appropriate for you. The doctor will also help you determine the number of sessions needed and monitor the healing process after each session.

Laser removal

Laser removal of warts on the legs is one of the most effective and safe methods of removing them. This process takes place in specialized clinics where qualified doctors perform the procedure.

The principle of operation of laser wart removal is the use of a laser beam, which destroys the grown epithelial cells with point infrared energy. This allows you to remove the wart without damaging the surrounding tissue and without leaving scars.

Laser removal of warts on the legs usually does not require the use of anesthesia, as the procedure is almost painless. However, in some cases it may be necessary to use local anesthesia for patient comfort.

After laser wart removal on legs, a number of recommendations must be followed for a quick and effective recovery. It is important to avoid rubbing and injury to the treated area, maintain hygiene and treat wounds regularly by applying antiseptic solutions and ointments.

Laser removal of warts on the legs is considered one of the safest methods, as it minimizes the risk of recurrence and the possible appearance of new warts. However, before the procedure, it is necessary to consult a doctor and choose the best method of removal and further treatment plan.

Chemical treatments

Warts on the feet can be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and require timely and effective treatment. Chemical methods are one of the ways to deal with warts on the legs and are widely used in dermatology.

One of the most common chemical methods is the use of special solutions or patches containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that helps soften and exfoliate tough growths. Its use allows you to improve the penetration of other drugs and speed up the healing process.

It is important to use the correct chemical methods to get rid of warts on the feet. First you need to wash and dry the affected area, then apply a special solution or patch with salicylic acid. It is recommended to follow the prescribed instructions and take into account the individual characteristics of the body. During treatment, it is desirable to avoid friction and injury to the treated area.

However, chemical treatments for warts on the legs can have side effects such as redness, irritation, or even burning of the skin. Therefore, before using chemical preparations, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist or doctor so that they can determine the best chemical method for your particular case and monitor the treatment process.

Radio wave therapy

Radio wave therapy is an effective treatment for foot warts. It is based on the use of radio wave radiation, which acts on the affected area and destroys swollen cells.

The radio wave therapy procedure achieves high precision without damaging the surrounding tissues. The device used for this purpose generates radio wave pulses that are transmitted through a thin metal loop. The heat generated inside the wart destroys its cells, thereby contributing to their disappearance.

Radio wave therapy has several advantages over other treatments. Firstly, it does not cause pain and can be performed without anesthesia. Secondly, this procedure is quite fast and does not require a long recovery time. Thirdly, it does not leave scars or scars on the skin, which is an important factor for patients.

Before using radio wave therapy, the doctor examines and examines the condition of the wart. In some cases, multiple treatment sessions may be required, especially if the wart is large or deeply rooted. The doctor may also prescribe antiviral medications to more effectively eliminate the warts.

In general, radio wave therapy is a fairly safe and effective method of getting rid of warts on the legs. Consulting with your doctor will help determine the appropriate treatment and discuss possible limitations or side effects.

Surgical removal

Surgical removal is one of the radical methods of getting rid of warts on the legs. It is used in cases where other methods have proven ineffective or when warts are in hard-to-reach places.

The surgical removal procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the skin to gain access to the wart. The wart is then removed with a sharp instrument such as a knife or laser. The wound can then be sutured closed or left open to heal.

Surgical removal of warts on the legs can be associated with the risk of burns, infections and scarring. Therefore, it is important to follow all the recommendations and instructions given by the doctor. After the procedure, small scars may also form, which usually become less noticeable over time.

Surgical removal of warts on the legs does not in itself prevent their recurrence. To prevent recurrence, it is important to monitor foot hygiene, avoid injury to the skin and strengthen the immune system. Your doctor may also prescribe medications or prescribe other treatments to maintain the effect after surgical removal of warts.

How do you keep your feet healthy and clear after wart removal?

After the removal of warts on the legs, a number of measures must be taken to maintain healthy and clear skin. The first thing to do is wash your feet regularly using mild soap and warm water. This will help remove any medication or pain medication residue that may be left on the skin after the wart removal procedure.

It is also important to dry your feet after washing. Do not leave them wet, as this can encourage bacteria to grow and cause inflammation. To speed up the drying process, you can use a towel or hair dryer.

To prevent the recurrence of warts, it is recommended to use preventive products regularly. One popular option is creams or ointments containing substances with antiviral properties. This will help protect the skin from possible infection and reproduction of the virus that causes warts.

It is also important to monitor the condition of the skin of the legs and consult a doctor if any changes appear. A professional medical examination will help to identify and prevent possible complications associated with the removal of warts in a timely manner.

By following these tips, you can keep your feet healthy and clear after wart removal and prevent their recurrence. Remember that foot care is an important aspect of overall health, so pay enough attention to this issue.

How to avoid the reappearance of warts?

Warts are a contagious disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). To avoid the recurrence of warts, a number of precautions must be taken.

1. Maintain hygiene: Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, especially after visiting public areas such as swimming pools or showers. Do not use other people’s towels or personal hygiene items.

2. Avoid injury: A wart may appear on injured skin. Therefore, you should not walk barefoot in public places where there is a possibility of infection. Wear comfortable shoes to prevent skin damage.

3. Boost your immune system: A strong immune system will help your body fight off the virus and prevent warts from coming back. Pay attention to a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, physical activity and sufficient rest. Pick up a complex of vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system.

4. Avoid contact with infected people: The HPV virus is transmitted through direct contact. Therefore, try to avoid close contact with people who have warts on their feet. If you do come into contact with an infected person, wash your feet immediately and take measures to strengthen your immune system.

5. Get prophylactic treatment: If you have had warts on your feet, see your doctor for preventive treatment. Your doctor will be able to prescribe medications or treatments to help prevent the warts from coming back.

Following these precautions will help you avoid the recurrence of warts and keep your feet healthy.

How to find the right wart specialist?

Wart removal can be a complex procedure and it is therefore important to find an experienced and reliable specialist for this. There are several ways to help you find the right wart removal specialist.

First, you can contact your family doctor or dermatologist. They have experience and knowledge in the field of wart removal and will be able to recommend the right specialist for you.

Secondly, you can contact other patients who have already undergone wart removal. Ask your friends, relatives, or colleagues about their experience and which specialists they recommend.

Third, you can use the internet to find wart removal specialists in your area. Read patient reviews, look at their qualifications and work experience. This will help you make an informed choice and choose the best specialist for your case.

It must also be taken into account that the removal of warts may be different depending on their type and location. Therefore, it is important to find a specialist who has experience with your type of wart and can offer the most effective treatment.

Video on the topic:

Q&A:

What methods effectively help to get rid of warts on the legs?

There are several effective methods for getting rid of warts on the legs. One of them is the treatment with medicines that penetrate the inside of the warts and cause them to die. Another method is cryodestruction, in which the wart is frozen with liquid nitrogen. There are also methods of surgical removal of warts.

What medicines can be used to treat warts on the legs?

Various medications can be used to treat warts on the legs. One of the most common medications is a keratolytic patch containing salicylic acid. Also in pharmacies, you can buy solutions and ointments containing acid or an iron carbide substance, which also help exfoliate the outer layers of the wart and contribute to its death.

What role does prevention play in getting rid of warts on the legs?

Prevention plays a very important role in getting rid of warts on the legs. To prevent their occurrence, it is necessary to monitor the hygiene of the feet, avoid wearing common clothes and shoes, disinfect shoes regularly, and shave or cut hair on the legs. It is also important to strengthen the immune system, since a decrease in its protective properties can contribute to the appearance of warts.

What additional remedies help to get rid of warts on the legs?

In addition to medicines and prevention, there are a number of additional products that can help get rid of warts on the legs. One such remedy is the use of special antiseptics and creams that help fight inflammation and protect the skin from infection. You can also use folk remedies, such as lemon juice or garlic, which have antimicrobial properties and contribute to the death of warts.

Reviews

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I was surprised to find this article as I have recently developed warts on my feet and really wish I could get rid of them. It turns out that the cause of their appearance may be the human papillomavirus, which is transmitted through contact with infected surfaces. I would like to emphasize that warts on the legs not only cause discomfort, but also negatively affect the appearance. The article offers several methods of treatment. One of them is the use of special liquids or creams containing salicylic acid. They, according to the authors, help destroy the wart, gradually remove it from the skin. In addition, emphasis is placed on ointments containing lactic acid or urea. They can be effective for warts in small areas. The authors also advise consulting a pedicurist or dermatologist for quality medical care. To be honest, I was immediately interested in home treatments. They suggest applying aloe vera juice or garlic bulbs to the wart, as well as using tea tree oil. I hope that these methods will help to get rid of warts, as it is important for me that my legs look in perfect condition. Overall, the article is a useful source of information about foot warts and how to deal with them. I have learned about various therapies and am now ready to try some of them. Warts on the feet is a problem that many people face and I am very grateful to the authors of the article for sharing their knowledge. I hope my warts disappear and I don’t have to worry about them anymore.

I cannot fulfill this request.

The article is very useful and interesting. I did not know before that warts on the legs can be quickly and effectively removed. The article describes some simple but effective ways that you can use at home. I really liked the idea of ​​using vinegar or lemon juice wipes – it’s really very simple and affordable. The article also recommends the use of salicylic acid ointment, which is one of the most popular treatments for warts. A big plus of the article is that it offers not only treatment, but also prevention. Recommendations about the use of shoes made from natural materials, the regular wearing of clean socks and the disinfection of the bathroom surface will help to avoid new cases of warts. I am very grateful to the author for such a useful article and I hope to use the published tips.

Removal of warts and thorns in Novosibirsk, appointment and prices, burn the thorn into honey. center Avanta-Med

Warts are benign skin growths caused by specific viruses. This is one of the most common pathologies of the skin, which in one way or another manifests itself in 90% of the world’s population. Warts occur in both sexes, regardless of age, and are located on any part of the body, from the scalp to the toes.

The medical center “Avanta-Med” in Novosibirsk offers the removal of moles, warts and spines with a modern radio wave device “Surgitron”. All procedures are performed by experienced, qualified dermatologists who own innovative technologies in the field of diagnosis and treatment of skin neoplasms.

What is a wart

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. It depends on its type, which neoplasms appear on the skin, what symptoms they are accompanied by and where they are localized. Usually, infection occurs by contact, for example, when shaking hands, when infected and healthy skin come into contact, or through handrails in public transport, household items, etc.

The likelihood of contracting HPV, which leaves unattractive growths on the skin, is especially high in places with high contact and a humid environment (pools, baths, saunas).

The risk increases with minor injuries and inflammations on the skin, through which it is easier for the virus to enter the body.

Types of warts

There are several main types of warts, each of which is characterized by its own symptoms. Of these, the most common are:

1. Simple (ordinary) or vulgar . Round dense papules up to 1 cm in size, covered with cracks and layers. The most common reason for visiting specialists is the desire to get rid of simple warts on the hands, fingers, knees or face. Such neoplasms occur in approximately 70% of patients and cause only aesthetic discomfort. But as they grow, they become painful, with increased sensitivity and a tendency to bleed.
2. Flat (youth) . Single or multiple nodules are small, smooth and round. They may either not differ in color from healthy skin, or have a light red or brownish tint.
3. Plantar or spikes . Localized on the soles of the feet, painful on pressure and walking. They grow rapidly in depth and require mandatory removal.
4. Filiform . Usually located on the face, near the mouth, nose or eyes. Outwardly, they look like thin horny growths.
5. Warts . They mainly affect the mucous membranes, are located in numerous groups, outwardly resembling cauliflower.

A competent specialist in most cases can accurately determine the type of neoplasm on the skin during the initial consultation. But in some cases, especially if the wart was injured, additional procedures may be needed – a biopsy with further histological examination.

Why warts should be removed

The decision to remove a large wart most often arises from the desire of the patient to eliminate an obvious cosmetic defect. Especially if the neoplasm is located in a place where it cannot be hidden with the help of clothes. For example, on the face or neck.

But the solution of an aesthetic problem is far from the main reason to get rid of such an outgrowth on the skin. Benign neoplasms, the appearance of which is caused by certain varieties of the human papillomavirus, can eventually transform into malignant ones. This is especially true of warts, which are often injured, for example, when walking or from contact with clothing.

First of all, the risk group includes patients with significant disorders in the functioning of the immune system. Genital warts, which appear under the influence of oncogenic types of HPV, are more susceptible to degeneration into cancerous tumors. Also, warts located in the genital area should not be ignored – they are often associated with a virus that can provoke the development of cervical cancer in women.

In addition, having a viral nature, such benign skin neoplasms can quickly grow and spread throughout the body. At the same time, they cause not only psychological discomfort, but also unpleasant sensations and even pain. This is especially true of warts located on the soles of the feet, palms, in the armpits, on the genitals and mucous membranes of the eyelids.

Disposal methods

There are several basic methods to remove warts from different parts of the patient’s face and body. These include:

1. Electrocoagulation . It involves the use of high frequency electric current. It heats the cells of the wart and nearby tissues from the inside, leading them to heat shock and death. A crust forms at the site of the growth, which disappears after 7-10 days.
2. Laser removal . A quick and painless method that allows you to get rid of the neoplasm in one procedure lasting no more than 15 minutes. The laser does not leave marks on the skin and makes it possible to send the removed tissue for histological examination.
3. Surgical method . Excision is performed under local anesthesia if the neoplasm has reached a large size. Cosmetic stitches are removed after a week, and in their place there is an inconspicuous flat scar.
4. Cryosurgery . Removal with liquid nitrogen takes place in several procedures, which must be repeated every 2-3 weeks until the build-up disappears completely. The process is accompanied by unpleasant sensations, so cryodestruction is prescribed only for adults and older children.
5. Medical removal . For this, destructive acids and other special agents are used that cause the gradual death of growth cells. To get the desired result, it will take from several weeks to months, subject to strict adherence to the instructions for the preparations.

A separate place is occupied by the radio wave method of removing neoplasms on the skin. It is based on the use of safe high-frequency waves, with the help of which the procedure can be carried out with minimal trauma even in the most inaccessible places. For example, on the eyelids or the oral mucosa.

Radio wave method of wart removal using the Surgitron apparatus

The use of the Surgitron device (USA) for the removal of neoplasms on the skin is a guarantee of high efficiency, safety and painlessness of the procedure. It is designed to work with benign moles, warts and spines, keratomas, dermatofibromas and molluscum contagiosum.