Post-Surgery Care and Recovery After HPV Wart Removal

Postoperative Care for Cauliflower Ear

Hello Dr.
Hsu,
Earlier this year, I discovered a skin-colored lump in the middle of the frenulum that slowly increased in size and turned into a white wart-like lesion.
On August 15, I was diagnosed with genital warts at Taipei City Hospital, and the following day I underwent electrosurgery.
It has now been a week since the surgery, and the wound has largely healed since the lesion was only 0.2 cm and was a single, isolated growth.
I have a few questions for you:
1.
After the surgery, do I need to immediately purchase topical medications like Aldara or Wartrol to prevent recurrence, or should I wait until the observation period and seek medical confirmation if I notice any new lesions?
2.
If there is no recurrence after three months of observation, can it be considered healed?
3.
If there is no recurrence after six months, can I self-pay for the HPV vaccine? Is it still effective to receive the vaccine after having had genital warts and being "cured"?
4.
My girlfriend had an examination at the hospital after my diagnosis, and no suspicious lesions were initially found.
She also self-paid for an HPV Pap smear test.
If the result is "negative," can we rule out the possibility of infection?
Thank you, Dr.
Hsu, for clarifying these concerns.

Xinshou Huage, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/23

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

1.
Assistance is available and can help prevent recurrence.
You may consult a physician.
2.
Not necessarily; the incubation period can sometimes last one to two years.
3.
There are many types of HPV, and vaccination is available, which may be helpful.
4.
You may consult an obstetrician-gynecologist, and vaccination is available.

Reply Date: 2017/08/23

More Info

Post-surgery care and recovery after HPV wart removal is crucial for ensuring that the treatment is effective and that the risk of recurrence is minimized. Here are some insights based on your questions and the current understanding of HPV management.

1. Use of Topical Treatments Post-Surgery: After undergoing electrosurgery for HPV warts, it is generally advisable to monitor the surgical site for any signs of recurrence before starting any topical treatments like Aldara (Imiquimod) or other wart treatments. These medications are typically used when new lesions appear or if there is a high risk of recurrence. If your doctor has not recommended immediate use of these medications, it may be best to wait and observe the area for a few weeks. If new lesions develop, then you can consult your healthcare provider about starting treatment.

2. Observation Period for Healing: It is common to have a follow-up period after wart removal. Generally, if there are no signs of recurrence after three months, it can be a positive indicator of healing. However, it is essential to continue regular check-ups as HPV can sometimes remain dormant and may not show symptoms immediately. Your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up examinations to ensure that the area remains clear.

3. Vaccination After Treatment: The HPV vaccine can still be beneficial even after having had HPV warts. The vaccine is designed to protect against the types of HPV that are most commonly associated with cervical cancer and genital warts. If you have not had any recurrence of warts after six months, you can consider getting vaccinated. The vaccine can help prevent future infections from other HPV types that you may not have been exposed to previously. It is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider to determine the best timing for vaccination based on your individual health history.

4. Testing for Partner's HPV Status: If your girlfriend has undergone an HPV screening and the results are negative, it is a good sign that she does not have an active HPV infection at the time of testing. However, it is important to note that HPV can be asymptomatic, and negative results do not completely rule out the possibility of past or future infections. Regular screenings and open communication about sexual health are essential for both partners.

In addition to these points, here are some general recommendations for post-surgery care and recovery:
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants on the area until it has fully healed.

- Avoid Sexual Activity: It is advisable to refrain from sexual activity until the area has healed completely to prevent irritation and potential reinfection.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to support your immune system. A strong immune system can help your body manage HPV more effectively.

- Regular Check-ups: Continue to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to discuss any concerns you may have.

In conclusion, while the surgical removal of HPV warts is an effective treatment, ongoing monitoring and preventive measures are essential to reduce the risk of recurrence and manage your overall health. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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