Falknor's Needling is a technique used for the treatment of plantar warts (verrucas). Verrucas are warts that appear on the soles of the feet and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). As the warts are confined to the epidermis (top layer of the skin) where there are no circulating immune cells, warts can evade a person’s immune system and persist – sometimes for months or years. Needling has gained attention for its effectiveness (approximately 70% of lesions will resolve within 6 months after one treatment), particularly in cases where other treatments have failed.

Falknor's technique involves using a hollow needle to repeatedly penetrate a wart, into the subcutaneous tissue. Needling causes extensive destruction of keratinocytes (a type of skin cell in the epidermis) and the release of high levels of viral protein into the surrounding tissue. Deep penetration of this viral protein (antigen) into the subcutaneous tissue presents the virus to the immune system, eliciting an immune response against the virus, which typically results in the resolution of both satellite and distant warts in addition to the treated primary wart*.

*NB: only one wart needs to be treated in order to initiate an immune response by the body.

Recovery time is minimal. Normal activities can typically be resumed within 24-48 hours.
 

The fee includes the procedure, simple dressings for up to two week post-surgery and three follow-up appointments (one week, 3 months and 6 months post-procedure).  Additional dressings can be purchased here.
 

If additional in-clinic follow-up appointments are required post-procedure, these will incur a fee. Further advice by email, text or WhatsApp beyond two weeks after the procedure can be arranged via the online booking system and must be paid for in advance.

If you're not sure whether this is the right treatment for you,  you can book a virtual consultation and we can discuss your options.

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Falknor's needling is a very effective treatment for stubborn verruca, and can ultimately be a more cost-effective option.  It is also low faff - no additional treatment is required at home; you can have the procedure and watch whilst your verruca(s) and/or wart(s) resolve over the next few weeks or months. 

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The procedure is performed in a relaxing, spa-like environment. You will feel well looked-after before, during and after treatment. 

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To check your suitability for the procedure and answer any questions you may have, you can book an in-person new patient assessment or virtual assessment here. 

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Please note: NO treatment for verruca is guaranteed.  Falknor's needling can take up to 6 months to work, though smaller lesions will typically resolve more quickly.  If you require a further round of treatment, a discounted fee will be offered.