Does laser removal of warts leave scars?

Mar 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 36 years old this year, and I have a wart on my hand. I would like to know whether laser treatment for removing the wart will leave a scar.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu

In general, laser wart removal may leave scars, but this does not always occur. Whether or not scarring develops depends on multiple factors, including individual body constitution, the size and location of the wart, the intensity of the laser treatment, and post-treatment care.

If the patient has a scarring predisposition, their skin is more prone to form scars after injury; therefore, the risk of scarring following laser wart removal is relatively higher. Larger warts located deeper within the skin layers may cause more significant skin damage during laser treatment, increasing the likelihood of abnormal collagen proliferation and subsequent scar formation. In contrast, smaller warts cause less skin damage, allowing for quicker postoperative healing and a lower likelihood of scarring.

To minimize the risk of scarring after laser wart removal, patients should communicate thoroughly with their doctor before treatment to understand their skin type, the nature of the wart, and the risks and benefits of the treatment plan. The doctor will develop an appropriate treatment strategy based on the patient's specific condition, aiming to reduce the likelihood of scarring. During the treatment process, patients should follow the doctor's instructions, keeping the treated area clean and dry to prevent infection.