Wart Removal Singapore
Wart Removal Singapore
Warts are benign skin growths caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are common in both children and adults across Singapore, and while they are not dangerous, they are contagious – spreading through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces – and tend to persist or multiply without treatment.
At Skincodes, Dr Ang Sue-May assesses wart type and extent, and recommends a targeted treatment approach to clear the infection and reduce the risk of spread.
Signs & Symptoms
Warts vary in appearance depending on their subtype and location:
- Common warts (verruca vulgaris) – rough, raised growths most often on the hands and fingers
- Plantar warts (verrucae) – found on the soles of the feet; can be painful due to pressure, often with a dark central core
- Flat warts – small, smooth, flat-topped lesions – more common in children, often on the face
- Filiform warts – thread-like projections, typically around the nose, lips, or eyelids
- Periungual warts – around or under the fingernails and toenails, where they can be particularly resistant to treatment
Causes & Triggers
Warts are caused by HPV, of which there are many strains. Transmission occurs through direct contact with the virus – either from another person or from a contaminated surface such as swimming pool floors or changing room areas. The virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions.
Risk is increased by
Shared communal spaces – particularly common in Singapore’s school and sports environments
Weakened immune function
Nail biting or skin picking, which creates entry points for the virus
Walking barefoot in public spaces
Children and young adults are disproportionately affected, though warts can develop at any age.
Treatment at Skincodes
Warts often persist without intervention, and delaying treatment increases the risk of spread to other sites or to close contacts. Treatment choice depends on wart type, location, size, and prior treatment history.
Cryotherapy
Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart, causing the infected skin cells to break down over a series of sessions. This is well-tolerated and suitable for most wart types.
Topical Agents
Preparations containing salicylic acid or other keratolytic agents may be used as part of a structured treatment programme.
Laser Treatment
CO2 laser can be used for resistant warts or those in difficult anatomical locations.
Surgical Removal
Excision or curettage is considered for warts that have not responded to other approaches.
Some warts require multiple treatment sessions. Dr Ang monitors response over time and adjusts the approach as needed.
Why Choose Specialist Surgical Care
Dermatological surgery performed by a specialist offers distinct advantages:
- Accurate pre-surgical diagnosis with dermoscopy. Lesions are assessed carefully as appearances can be
misleading without specialist evaluation - Appropriate margin assessment for cancer excisions based on lesion type and guidelines
- Histological analysis of all removed tissue to confirm diagnosis and clear margins
- Minimally invasive techniques selected to optimise cosmetic outcomes
- Structured follow-up and surveillance for ongoing skin health