Pearly Penile Papules - Treatment in Kelowna BC Canada

Pearly penile papules are small dome-shaped skin-coloured bumps typically located around the circumference of the penis. These bumps often appear in multiple rows and are common among uncircumcised men.

What Are the Symptoms of Pearly Penile Papules?

The appearance of small papules on the glans of the penis is usually the only symptom as these tiny little "skin tags" cause no discomfort at all.  They are usually quite distressing and concerning to the patient however.

What Are the Causes?

Penile papules are a normal male genital variation. They are not a byproduct of sexual activity or poor genital hygiene, nor are they infectious or contagious in nature.  They are very common.

What Are the Treatments?

Office Treatments:

Fractional CO2 Laser

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Before/After Laser Treatment with Dr. Crippen

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CO2 Laser Ablation of Pearly Penile Papules by Dr. Craig Crippen MD ABPh DPD

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, they are NOT an STD.  Their cause is not known, 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 physician.

Kelowna Board Certified Laser Physician Dr. Crippen 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. While at your consultation, talk to Dr. Crippen 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 Dr. Crippen, the more likely you are to be happy with your result.

In summary, here's what to expect for and what you will experience with Dr. Crippen.

• Meet personally in consultation with an experience board certified laser physican, Dr. Crippen.
• 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.

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 and/or completely remove the papules.

CO2 Laser Procedure:

The treatment area is cleansed and topical numbing cream is applied for 60 minutes. No injections are performed, the anaesthetic cream we use is very effective and you will not feel a thing during the procedure.

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.

More information here: 

 http://www.dermnetnz.org/site-age-specific/penile-papules.html