How to Remove Lip Warts

How to Remove Lip Warts
Photo Credit lip image by Kwap from Fotolia.com

Warts are caused by a virus referred to as the human papilloma virus, or HPV. This can be sexually transmitted or transmitted via skin-to-skin contact. In general, warts are harmless skin blemishes that are constructed out of a benign mass of tissue. Despite their harmlessness, they're often found annoying or even embarrassing, especially when they grow in prominent areas like the face or mouth. Because lip warts are close to the eyes and mouth, it's never a good idea to use over-the-counter treatments.

Step 1

Determine what kind of wart you have. There are a variety of types, including flat warts (smooth and yellow in color), plantar warts (most common, look like cauliflower and can be painful) and mosaic warts (a series of plantar warts grouped together). The most commonly occurring facial warts are filiform warts, characterized by long, narrow growths that are pain-free.

Step 2

Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Explain your wart's characteristics and determine which treatment option is best for you. Because the growth is around your mouth, your doctor will suggest and in-office treatment, not an over-the-counter one.

Step 3

Discuss the best treatment for your lip wart. Your doctor will likely suggest a procedure like cryosurgery (liquid nitrogen) or electrocautery. Depending on the size of your wart, a more basic removal process may be suggested. Treatments include removal with a scalpel or scissors.

References

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: Sep 8, 2010

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