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Patients with warts in Boston can come to Westford Dermatology & Cosmetic Center for effective removal. Warts are generally painless, but they can be contagious, which is why they should be treated right away. Warts can also grow in areas of your body that are very visible, potentially causing embarrassment and discomfort.
What Are Warts?
Warts are growths on your skin caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). These non-cancerous bumps project out of the skin. They can spread to different areas of the body or to another person.
There are different types of warts, depending on where they appear on your body. Each wart has a distinct appearance. Common warts are round, raised, and hardened bumps that can appear almost anywhere on your body. Plantar warts grow on the soles of the feet, marked by hardened skin and tiny holes.
Flat warts can appear on the face, thighs, or arms and may grow in large groups. Filiform warts appear as flap-like growths or finger-like projections off the skin around the nose or mouth. Warts that grow under the nails are called periungual warts.
Should I Set Up a Wart Removal Appointment?
If you find a wart, you should undergo wart removal to limit the risk of spreading the infection. Though there may be over-the-counter options, it is best to visit Westford Dermatology & Cosmetic Center to have your wart diagnosed and proper treatment recommended.
If your warts grow in sensitive areas or if you are diabetic, in-office removal is ideal. If the wart starts bleeding or has pus, you may be recommended for wart removal treatments. Also, if the color changes or the wart becomes painful, you should consider warts treatment options.
Your Consultation
During your consultation for wart removal, a physical examination will be performed by Dr. Steven Franks. Dr. Franks may do a biopsy to test for HPV. Your medical history will be discussed, including any underlying conditions and current medications. A customized treatment plan will be developed to address your warts.
Wart Treatment
Different techniques are available for wart removal, most popularly cryo freezing and surgery (as a final choice). In cryofreezing, the wart will be frozen using a blast of liquid nitrogen. It may feel like ice on the skin for a few seconds. Surgery is only performed if the warts do not respond to all the other treatment options.
Prevention
Warts can be prevented from spreading by regular hand washing. If you have been in contact with someone who has warts, make sure to thoroughly clean your hands. If you have warts, prevent them from spreading to other body parts by covering the warts with bandages.
Avoid picking, shaving, or scratching the warts. Always keep your hands and feet dry, and wear slippers or shower shoes when bathing in communal facilities.
Contact Us to Learn More
Treatment of warts in Boston is necessary to prevent further infection and improve your quality of life. Contact Westford Dermatology & Cosmetic Center today to schedule your consultation
Your procedure will be performed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Franks in Boston, MS.
