Genital Wart Removal

Genital warts that are visible on the penis, the vagina, or around the anus can be removed by cutting them off surgically. Warts located on the cervix can be removed by laser or loop electrosurgical excision.

The genital wart removal is typically done in a medical physician's office or clinic. Patients generally a medication that will numb the area around the warts, or a local anesthetic.   Stitches are usually required to close the incisions after the surgery.

What To Expect After Genital Wart Removal Surgery

Recovery time depends on a number of things.  To begin with, it will depend on the patient's personal tolerance to such procedures.  It also depends on the location and the number of warts that were removed.

• Most patients are able to recover and return to normal activities within 1 to 3 days.

• Complete healing generally takes 2 to 4 weeks.

• Scarring may occur.

For men and women who have withstood genital wart removal should contact their health professional if any of the following occur:

• Bleeding that persists longer than 1 week

• A fever

• Severe pain

• Foul-smelling or a yellowish discharge indicating an infection

By all means, the patient should avoid sexual intercourse until the treated area heals and soreness is gone (typically 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the size of the treated area).

Why Genital Wart Removal Surgery Is Done

Surgery is used to remove genital warts that return over and over.  It is also done when the warts are widespread.  Often times, a single treatment is all that is required.

How Genital Wart Removal Surgery Works

Surgery is found to be effective in up to approximately 72% of cases.  The warts return in about 19% to 29% of the people undergoing surgery.

The risks of surgery to patients are the following:

• Bleeding after the surgery.

• Infection.  Patients generally go on antibiotics at the time of the surgery to reduce the risk of infection.

• Pain.  Patients may need pain medication for several days after the surgery.

Remember that treating genital warts is not a cure for HPV.  The virus will remain in the body in a dormant state after the wart removal.  A person treated for genital warts is still usually able to spread the infection.  Condoms definitely assist in reducing the risk of infection, but it is not a complete deterrent.