Discreet, effective, and medically led – Harley Street Medics offers advanced genital wart removal in the heart of London. Our expert team provides personalised care in a private setting, using the latest techniques to safely treat and prevent recurrence.
Genital warts are a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), most often types 6 and 11. They appear as small, flesh-colored or grey growths that can develop on or around the genital and anal areas. Warts may be flat or raised, single or multiple, and can sometimes form clusters that resemble a cauliflower-like texture. While genital warts are usually painless, they can cause discomfort, itching, or emotional distress due to their location and appearance.
At Harley Street Medics in London, we offer clinically proven treatments for genital warts that not only remove visible lesions but also reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Our specialists provide confidential consultations and tailored treatment plans to ensure the safest, most effective results for every patient.
Genital warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK, particularly among sexually active individuals aged 18 to 35. In London, where the population is diverse and densely concentrated, we regularly see cases of HPV-related warts in both men and women.While not life-threatening, genital warts can be persistent and emotionally distressing. It’s estimated that thousands of new cases are diagnosed each year in London alone.
The primary cause of genital warts is infection with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV)—most commonly types 6 and 11, which are considered low-risk strains but can still cause recurring lesions. HPV is highly contagious and is usually transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Even skin-to-skin contact in the genital area without penetration can spread the virus.
Weakened immune system:
Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether due to medical conditions (like HIV) or certain medications, are more likely to develop persistent or recurring genital warts.
Unprotected sex:
Engaging in sexual activity without barrier protection increases the likelihood of HPV transmission. Having multiple sexual partners or a partner with an unknown sexual health history also elevates the risk.
Early sexual activity:
Starting sexual activity at a young age increases exposure risk over time, especially if regular screening or protection isn’t maintained.
Smoking:
Smoking has been linked to a reduced immune response against HPV, potentially increasing the risk of developing visible warts after infection.
HPV exposure history: Previous exposure to HPV—even if warts were treated in the past—can lead to recurrences, as the virus may remain dormant in the body.
When it comes to Genital Wart Removal , medical professionals use several safe and effective techniques. In the UK, common clinical removal methods include cryotherapy (freezing), Surgical excision (cutting off), and CO₂ Laser Treatment.
How It Works
Cryotherapy involves the controlled application of liquid nitrogen to the wart, instantly freezing the affected tissue to around –196°C. This process forms ice crystals within the wart cells, disrupting their structure and leading to cellular death. Over the next few days, the treated wart usually darkens, blisters, and scabs before falling off naturally. The procedure is generally quick and well-tolerated, with most sessions lasting only a few minutes. While anesthesia is not typically needed, numbing cream may be applied beforehand for added comfort.
Benefits
Cryotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure with a short treatment time and very little downtime. It’s especially effective for small, superficial warts and can be repeated safely if needed. Since no incisions are involved, the risk of infection and bleeding is extremely low. Most patients are able to resume daily activities immediately after treatment, and the healing process is typically complete within one to two weeks. It is a practical and efficient choice for patients looking for a non-surgical solution with minimal scarring.
Drawbacks
During and after the procedure, patients may experience a stinging or burning sensation, as well as redness, swelling, or blistering in the treated area. These effects are usually mild and temporary. In some cases, cryotherapy may result in skin discoloration—either hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation—particularly in individuals with darker skin. For larger or deeper warts, or those located in more sensitive areas, multiple sessions may be required to fully clear the lesion. Proper aftercare is essential to prevent irritation or secondary infection.
How It Works
CO2 laser therapy is a highly targeted treatment that uses a focused beam of carbon dioxide laser light to vaporise wart tissue layer by layer. The energy from the laser is absorbed by water in the skin cells, causing rapid heating and destruction of the wart without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure comfort, and the laser simultaneously cauterises blood vessels, reducing bleeding and the risk of infection.
Benefits
CO2 laser removal is particularly useful for warts located in delicate, hard-to-reach, or cosmetically sensitive areas, such as around the genitals or anus. The laser’s precision allows for clean removal with minimal trauma to surrounding skin, leading to excellent cosmetic outcomes and quicker healing. It is often the treatment of choice for patients with recurrent or resistant warts that haven’t responded to topical treatments or cryotherapy. In most cases, only one session is required, and the risk of scarring is significantly reduced.
Drawbacks
Although laser treatment is safe and well-tolerated, it requires specialist equipment and trained professionals, which can make it a more expensive option. Post-procedure, patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort in the treated area. There’s also a slight chance of temporary pigmentation changes, particularly in darker skin tones. While recurrence is less likely with laser compared to cryotherapy, it is still possible in cases of persistent HPV infection.
How It Works
Surgical excision involves the physical removal of the wart and a margin of surrounding tissue using a scalpel. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is usually reserved for warts that are larger, deep-rooted, or have not responded to other treatments. Once the wart is excised, the area is typically closed with dissolvable stitches or allowed to heal naturally, depending on the location. The excised tissue can be sent to the lab for histological examination when needed.
Benefits
This method provides immediate and complete wart removal, offering peace of mind for patients concerned about recurrence or diagnostic clarity. Surgical excision is highly effective for large or singular warts, especially when they are causing pain or interfering with daily function. It allows for precise control during the procedure and is often a one-time treatment. In addition, having the tissue analysed can rule out any atypical or concerning changes.
Drawbacks
Because it is an invasive procedure, surgical excision comes with a longer recovery time compared to laser or cryotherapy. Patients may experience discomfort in the days following treatment and will need to follow aftercare instructions to reduce the risk of infection or delayed healing. Scarring is a possibility, especially in areas where the skin is under tension or friction. In rare cases, if the wart is in close proximity to a nerve, there’s a slight risk of temporary numbness or sensitivity in the area post-treatment.
The table below provides a comparison of key treatment methods, highlighting how they work, typical pain levels, downtime, and other considerations:
| Method | How It Works | Best For | Pain Level | Recovery Time | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Cryotherapy |
Freezes wart tissue using liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister, scab, and fall off. |
Small, superficial warts on external skin. |
Mild to moderate stinging or burning; usually well-tolerated without anesthesia. |
1–2 weeks; minimal downtime; possible blistering or scabbing. |
Quick, low-risk, minimal scarring, outpatient procedure. |
May need multiple sessions; possible pigmentation changes in treated area. |
|
CO2 Laser Removal |
Uses focused CO2 laser to vaporise wart cells layer by layer with high precision. |
Stubborn, clustered, or recurring warts in sensitive or hard-to-reach areas. |
Mild discomfort; procedure done under local anesthesia. |
3–7 days; quicker healing with excellent cosmetic results. |
Precise, cosmetically friendly, good for difficult locations, low recurrence. |
Higher cost; requires specialist equipment; not ideal for very large warts. |
|
Surgical Excision |
Physically removes wart using a scalpel under local anesthesia; tissue may be sent for analysis. |
Large, deep-rooted, or treatment-resistant warts requiring full removal. |
Moderate; local anesthesia used but some soreness may follow post-procedure. |
1–2 weeks; longer recovery; requires aftercare to manage stitches or wound site. |
Complete and immediate removal, can analyse tissue, highly effective for large warts. |
Scarring risk; longer downtime; follow-up care essential to ensure healing. |
At Harley Street Medics, your skin health and confidence are our priority. Here’s what makes us a trusted destination for Genital wart removal:
Our clinic is located in the prestigious Harley Street area, known for elite-level medical care.
We follow the highest safety standards required by UK healthcare regulators.
All procedures are conducted by trained professionals, ensuring accuracy, hygiene, and minimal scarring.
Enjoy fast access, discreet service, and custom treatment plans—no GP referral needed.
We provide clear recovery guidance, helping you heal quickly and with confidence.
| Treatments | Price |
|---|---|
| Cryotherapy | From £149 for 1st wart |
| Additional warts | From £59 |
| Specialised Laser/Wart Excision | From £299 for 1st wart |
| Additional warts | From £99 |
| Cluster Wart | From £495 |
| Warts upto 10 | £999 |
Genital warts often have a rough, cauliflower-like texture, while skin tags are usually smooth, soft, and flesh-coloured. A proper diagnosis should be made by a healthcare professional.
They typically appear as small, raised or flat bumps in the genital or anal area. They can be flesh-coloured or slightly darker and may occur alone or in clusters.
Treatment duration varies, but most sessions last 20–30 minutes. Multiple sessions may be required depending on the number and size of the warts.
Without treatment, genital warts may persist for months or even years. Early treatment can prevent spread and minimise discomfort.
Genital warts have a distinct texture and often grow in moist areas. However, not all lumps are warts—a medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Yes, some people only develop a single wart, while others may develop multiple over time.
Yes, genital warts are highly contagious and spread through sexual or close skin-to-skin contact.
Most removal methods cause minimal discomfort. Numbing creams or local anaesthetic are used to make the procedure comfortable.
Yes, even after removal, the virus (HPV) may remain dormant, which means warts can reappear later. Regular monitoring is advised.
The finest dermatological and aesthetic treatments tailored to your specific skin needs are our speciality at Harley Street Medics. Our clinic provides state-of-the-art procedures to help you attain the healthy, radiant skin you deserve, from sophisticated cosmetic solutions to professional skin care.
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