Stubborn plantar warts. Swift solution.

What Is Swift?

Swift is an innovative wart treatment technology developed in the UK, using microwave energy delivered through a specialised probe applied directly to the wart. This energy generates controlled heat within the verruca, targeting the infected tissue at its source.

Research shows that this process, known as local hyperthermia, is often more effective than traditional wart treatments such as freezing or acid.

How Does Swift Work?

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). One reason warts can be so persistent is that HPV can evade your immune system, allowing the wart to remain hidden within the skin for months or even years.

Swift works by delivering microwave energy to a precise depth, heating the infected tissue to around 42–45°C. This controlled heat places the infected cells under stress, making them visible to your immune system. Your body can then recognise and clear the virus naturally over time.

Is Microwave Therapy Safe?

Yes. Swift is very safe. Microwaves are a form of non-ionising radiation, meaning they do not damage DNA. Microwave technology is used every day in mobile phones, WiFi and Bluetooth devices. Swift has been designed specifically for medical use and is used widely in podiatry clinics across Australia and internationally.

Swift vs Other Treatments

Traditional treatments including cryotherapy, salicylic acid, needling and electrotherapy all work by irritating or destroying tissue in the hope of triggering an immune response. Success rates are often low, and most require frequent appointments, dressings and downtime.

Swift is different:

• No cutting or disruption of healthy skin
• No open wound
• No dressings required
• Minimal downtime
• Patients walk out and return to normal activities immediately

What to Expect

Swift treatment is extremely quick. Most patients feel a brief, sharp heat sensation during application, lasting only a few seconds — often described as similar to briefly placing your foot in hot water. Discomfort settles rapidly and most people feel back to normal within two to three minutes.

For patients who are particularly sensitive, a local anaesthetic can be applied to numb the area before treatment.

Most patients at Sydney Podiatry Co require three treatments, spaced approximately four weeks apart, followed by a 12-week review appointment. Your podiatrist will tailor the plan based on the size, location and duration of your wart.

Am I Suitable?

Most patients with plantar warts or verrucae on the feet are suitable for Swift. Your podiatrist will always conduct an assessment first and discuss whether Swift is the right option for your specific wart.

Swift is often a great option for children with painful or persistent verrucae because it avoids cutting or dressings. Suitability depends on age, wart location and discomfort levels — an assessment with one of our podiatrists is recommended first.

Swift Results

Real patient outcomes achieved at Sydney Podiatry Co by our certified Swift podiatrists.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Swift wart treatment cost?
Swift wart treatment is priced per session. The total cost depends on the size and number of plantar warts being treated and how many sessions are required. We are happy to provide exact pricing after an assessment at our Balgowlah clinic, as every wart is different.

Does Swift hurt?
Swift is very quick. You may feel a short burst of heat lasting only a few seconds, similar to briefly stepping into hot water. Discomfort settles quickly, and most people feel normal again within minutes.

Is there any downtime after Swift?
No. There is no open wound, no dressings and no recovery time. You can walk out of the clinic immediately and return to normal activities the same day.

How long does it take for the wart to disappear?
Swift works by stimulating your immune system to recognise and clear the virus over time. Many patients notice changes within the first few treatments, but full clearance can take several weeks or months. Your podiatrist will monitor progress at each visit.

Can Swift treat stubborn warts that haven't responded to other treatments?
Yes. Swift is commonly chosen by patients who have tried acid treatments, cryotherapy and over-the-counter remedies without success. Swift is particularly effective for stubborn plantar warts because it targets the infected tissue while activating an immune response.

Will the wart come back after Swift treatment?
Swift aims to help your immune system clear the HPV virus, which reduces the chance of recurrence. However, like all wart treatments, recurrence is still possible. We provide advice on preventing spread and reducing reinfection.

Is Swift better than freezing or acid?
Traditional treatments destroy surface tissue and hope the immune system responds. Swift targets the wart at a precise depth, does not damage surrounding healthy skin, requires no dressings, has no downtime and stimulates a stronger immune response. Many patients choose Swift after other treatments have failed.

Not sure which wart treatment is right for you? Our Plantar Warts Knowledge Centre explains causes, symptoms and the full range of treatment options we offer.

Health Fund Rebates

Swift wart treatment delivered as part of a podiatry consultation is claimable through most private health funds with podiatry extras cover. We offer HICAPS on-the-spot claiming at our Balgowlah clinic — no paperwork, no out-of-pocket delays.