Wart Removal in Miami, FL
Accurate Diagnosis, Effective Treatment
Warts are small, benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are numerous different wart subtypes, and they can appear on the hands, feet, face, or elsewhere on the body, with the type and location often guiding which treatment works best.
Why See a Dermatologist for a Wart
Most importantly, a dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis. For example, a wart on the foot is often confused with a corn, which is a benign lesion, and less commonly, a wart can be mistaken for something more serious, like a skin cancer. Dermatologists also offer treatments unavailable at urgent care, primary care, or the local pharmacy, and Dr. Chloe Goldman often uses cutting-edge options for cases that haven’t responded to simpler methods.
Wart Treatment Options Offered at Goldman Dermatology of Miami
Liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy)
The most common first approach in the office.
Prescription topical medications
Stronger options not available over-the-counter, used for resistant or hard-to-clear warts or warts in sensitive locations.
Non-prescription topical medications
Used in conjunction with prescription treatments and in-office procedures.
Laser treatment
Targets the blood supply feeding a stubborn wart, gradually causing the affected tissue to break down and clear.
Advanced injections, including bleomycin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)
Often used for plantar warts or warts that haven't responded to multiple rounds of standard treatment.
Minor surgical removal
Reserved for large warts, where debulking is a helpful strategy in combination with other treatments.
FAQ
What is the difference between over-the-counter wart spray and liquid nitrogen in a dermatologist's office?
Over-the-counter wart sprays typically use dimethyl ether, reaching about -55°F — cold enough to freeze the skin’s surface but often not the full depth of the wart. In-office liquid nitrogen reaches roughly -321°F (-196°C), penetrating deeply enough to destroy the wart at its base and to cause the crystallization necessary for cellular destruction, which is why dermatologist-administered cryotherapy tends to work better for warts.
Why would I see a dermatologist for a wart?
Dermatology offices use professional-grade liquid nitrogen that reaches colder temperatures than urgent care or over the counter options. Also, a dermatologist can offer laser treatment, prescription topicals, injectables, or minor surgery for cases that don’t respond to freezing alone. This range of options means care doesn’t stall after a single failed attempt, as it often does with a single OTC product. Dermatologists can also confirm an accurate diagnosis.
How many treatments does it take to clear a wart?
The number of treatments depends on the size of the wart, how long it’s been present, its location, and the intensity of prior treatments. Many clear within 2 to 4 cryotherapy sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, though stubborn or plantar cases sometimes need additional rounds or a different technique.
Are bleomycin or 5-FU injections painful?
These injections cause temporary discomfort at the site, and Dr. Chloe Goldman discusses what to expect based on location before proceeding.
Is it worth treating a wart that isn't bothering me?
Many patients choose to address one purely to prevent spreading to other areas or to other people, even when it isn’t painful. This is a reasonable choice on its own, particularly for patients who share towels, razors, or athletic equipment with others in the household.
Dealing with a wart that won't clear on its own?
Schedule a consultation for wart removal in Miami, FL, with our providers at Goldman Dermatology of Miami.