Pearly Penile Papule Treatment

Pearly Penile Papule Removal in San Diego

CO2 Laser Ablation of Pearly Penile Papules

Pearly penile papules are small dome-shaped bumps that sometimes appear around the circumference of the sulcus or corona of the penis. These bumps, or papules, are commonly skin-colored or slightly lighter than the skin.

Pearly penile papules, technically called hirsuties papillaris genitalis, are not sexually transmitted. Their cause is unknown, although they are more common in men in their twenties and thirties, and are also more common in uncircumcised males.

Some men choose to leave this condition untreated, as the papules are generally asymptomatic. However, many men find this condition to be embarassing in intimate situations and suffer detrimental social and emotional effects from leaving the papules untreated.

Treatment for pearly penile papules is typically quite simple and effective through carbon dioxide laser treatment by a qualified dermatologist.

San Diego dermatologist Dr. Groff is experienced in treating pearly penile papules, and will be happy to discuss your concerns with you.

As with all surgery, there are risks. General surgical risks include inflammation and infection, hematoma, scarring issues, swelling, bruising, and numbness.

Once you decide pearly penile papule treatment is right for you, start by making an appointment with one or more of our board-certified dermatologists. While at your consultation, talk to him or her about your specific goals and expectations. By discussing your specific surgical expectations, the physician will be able to exam you and tell you what they think can be realistically achieved. The more you share in consultation with the dermatologist, the more likely you are to be happy with your result.

In summary, here's what to look for and what you'll find at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre:

• Meet personally in consultation with an experience board certified dermatologist
• At the consultation have an examination and discuss your desires and expectations and the specifics of the recommended procedure
• Receive information and materials that help you in the decision making process
• Get a specific written quote detailing all the costs
• After scheduling surgery attend an individual "pre-op" appointment to discuss all surgical aspects and risks

"I would just like to say that I thought Dr. Groff showed great professionalism and erased any nervous thought I had post procedure. I am very grateful to Dr. Groff as this has been a problem I have been suffering with in silence over the years. It is not easy living with this as it has affected my self-esteem and was very devastating emotionally."  - LJCSC CO2 laser patient

Procedure Description: CO2 Laser Ablation of Pearly Penile Papules

Who is a Candidate for C02 Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules?

Any male patient who has pearly penile papules

Intended Result:

To significantly diminish or completely remove the papules.

CO2 Laser Procedure:

The treatment area is cleansed and topical numbing cream is applied for 30-60 minutes. A ring block of lidocaine is placed around the base of the penis to numb the entire treatment area completely. The CO2 laser is used to carefully remove the papules.

Recuperation and Healing:

The will be some redness, swelling, crusting and scabbing, and mild stinging or discomfort for the first few to several days. Almost all patients are able to go back to work immediately. It typically takes 1-2 weeks to completely heal.

Note:

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.

With any cosmetic procedure, you want to be sure that the dermatologist has experience and is a board certified dermatologist.

At La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre, we are committed to educating patients, so we hope this information is helpful to you. Continue to browse our website at www.ljcsc.com for more information or call us at 1-800-946-2816 to make an appointment with one of our board certified dermatologists.