Cryotherapy is a common medical procedure used to remove warts by freezing them. This involves applying a very cold substance, typically liquid nitrogen, directly to the wart. The extreme cold destroys the wart tissue, causing affected cells to die off and eliminating the wart while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy skin.
What Happens After Freezing
Immediately following cryotherapy, the treated area may feel a minor burning sensation or stinging, similar to frostbite. Within a few hours, or up to 24 hours, the skin around the wart often develops redness, swelling, and a blister. This blister can be clear or blood-filled, a normal part of the healing process indicating the treatment is working.
Over the next few days, typically within two to three days, the blister will begin to dry out and flatten, forming a protective scab. Avoid picking at the blister or scab to allow natural healing and prevent infection. Basic aftercare involves keeping the treated area clean and protected, allowing the scab to fall off on its own.
How Long Until the Wart is Gone
A frozen wart typically detaches within seven to fourteen days after cryotherapy. The blister or scab usually dries and falls away within four to seven days, often taking the wart tissue with it. Overall skin healing can range from one to two weeks.
Several factors can influence how quickly a wart resolves. Larger or thicker warts, or those on high-pressure areas like the soles of the feet, may take longer to heal or require multiple treatments. Stubborn warts often need a series of cryotherapy sessions, spaced two to four weeks apart, for complete elimination. Individual immune response also plays a role, as treatment stimulates the body’s defenses against the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes warts. Once the scab falls off, new, pink skin is typically revealed underneath.
When to Seek Further Care
While cryotherapy is generally effective, further medical attention may be needed in some instances. If the wart does not show signs of improvement or fall off within two to three months, or if it reappears, consult a healthcare provider. This also applies if new warts develop or spread.
Signs of infection at the treatment site include increased pain, worsening redness or swelling, pus or discharge, or a fever. Severe blistering or excessive pain that does not subside also warrants medical evaluation. If there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis of the growth, or if a wart bleeds or changes appearance, professional medical advice should be sought. Multiple treatments may also be required for complete resolution.