Fine Wire Diathermy (FWD)

A medical procedure commonly used for treating minor skin irregularities with minimal scarring and downtime. Suited for: warts, skin tags, milia, syringomas, sun spots


Minor skin blemish treatment.

FWD is a treatment that involves your practitioner passing a small electric charge down a hair-like needle into an unwanted spot, causing this spot to shrivel and disappear. To learn more, come in for a consultation at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria.

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What is FWD used for?

It is often used in the treatment of minor skin blemishes such as: skin tags, milia, syringomas, seborrhoeic warts and sunspots. FWD is a versatile and minimally invasive procedure that offers effective solutions for various cosmetic skin concerns, leaving patients with smoother, clearer skin. Book a consultation to learn more today.

 
 
 

Key Features of Fine Wire Diathermy (FWD)

 

FAQs

  • • Skin tags

    • Milia

    • Syringomas

    • Seborrheic keratoses

    • Sebaceous hyperplasia

    • Small blood vessels

    • Spider naevi

    • Dilated blood vessels on the face

    • Fine vessels on the upper limbs or trunk

  • Precise Targeting: Precise targeting of specific skin concerns, such as skin tags or other small lesions. The fine wire electrode enables the desired area to be accurately treated with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.

    Electrical Current Application: A low-level electrical current is applied through the fine wire electrode. This current generates heat, which is the primary mechanism for the treatment. The controlled application of heat allows for effective and selective treatment of the target area.

    Versatility: FWD can be used for various skin concerns, including the removal of skin tags, small benign lesions, or other superficial irregularities. Its versatility makes it suitable for addressing a range of cosmetic or dermatological issues.

  • The insertion of a fine wire electrode into the target area, such as a skin tag or small lesion may cause a mild sensation, similar to a pinprick, but it is generally well-tolerated.

    Once the fine wire electrode is in place, a low-level electrical current is applied through the wire, generating heat. The patient may feel a warm or tingling sensation at the treatment site. The heat is targeted to cauterize the blood vessels and promote the removal or detachment of the skin concern.

    After the heat is applied, the treated skin concern will be removed using forceps or other specialized tools. The removal process is typically quick and should not cause significant discomfort.

  • Expectations:

    • It may take the spot anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to disappear, depending on the body part treated and the amount of current used.

    A scab will form over the sore which will eventually drop off when the healing is complete. It is important to protect the treated area with a broad-spectrum sunscreen while it is healing. 

    Downtime:

    • After you have had the procedure a sore will appear, this wound is usually inconsequential but if a larger area has been treated it may be necessary to use a night-time topical antibiotic or antiseptic ointment (preferably greasy) for seven to ten days if the wound is on the face, or longer if elsewhere on the body. Your practitioner will advise you if this is required.

 

Book a Consultation for Fine Wire Diathermy

Please note that all treatment options offered at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria require a consultation with one of our practitioners prior to any treatment being administered. Ask a question or request an appointment through the form below.


View our Results Gallery for Fine Wire Diathermy (FWD)

*All results shown on our website have been achieved by our team members. Please note that results are individual and may vary.