Pearly Penile Papules Removal Techniques

Pearly penile papules removal is possible through a variety of techniques. The scientific name for this condition is Hirsuties papillaris genitalis. The estimate for the number of men who have PPP ranges from 8% to nearly 50% but is probably closer to one-quarter of the male population. These bumps are not dangerous nor are they contagious. When a person first discovers these tiny cyst-like bumps around the head of their penis, he is usually horrified. He might think that he has caught a deadly disease or an STD. When a man thinks he might have an STD, he might worry about who he may have spread the sexually transmitted illness to or he might think that a lover or wife has given it to him through an act of unfaithfulness. Any of these possibilities can cause anxiety and stress. If a man goes to his doctor, many of these fears will be put to rest. The patient will learn that the lesions are not contagious, do not have anything to do with sex and are more common than many people might imagine. He will also be relieved to know that there are options for getting rid of the bumpy culprits. Here are some things to think about:

- Surgery option: To pearly penile papules removal can be done surgically, a doctor would cut them away and then stitch the remaining skin closed. A numbing agent in the form of a local anesthetic would be given to reduce discomfort.

- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is another word for freezing with liquid nitrogen. This is a common treatment option for warts and has been used with varying degrees of success with pearly penile papules.

- Electrodessication with curettage: This is a form of electrosurgery which is also performed under a local anesthetic. The bumps would be scraped away which causes some bleeding. A cauterizing tool would be used to stop the bleeding. Scars commonly result from this electrosurgery.

- Laser: A CO2 laser is one of the latest techniques to return the bumpiness to a smooth and normal appearing skin surface. CO2 stands for the carbon dioxide laser. The benefits of lasering are that it targets the pearly penile papules but not the skin surrounding the bumps. A local anesthetic such as lidocaine is commonly used to numb the region. Topical pain killers may also be applied. A patient should be prepared for some swelling and soreness for a couple of weeks post-op. Reddening and scabbing should also be expected.

- Methods that don’t work: Because men are sometimes too embarrassed to go to their doctor, there are various home remedies that have been tried. Creams, ointments, toothpaste, vitamins, oatmeal or altering masturbation frequency have all been tried without success.

Pearly penile papules removal should be done by a medical doctor, preferably a dermatologist who has been trained with the CO2 laser. If a man has any unexplained rash or skin condition on his genitals, he should seek the advice of his physician. If it turns out to be PPP, he will be relieved to know that it isn’t medically serious. If it is causing him self esteem issues, he should talk to the doc about how to get rid of the embarrassing papules.