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Understanding and Treating Penile Papules With Confidence

At Cosmetic Vein + Laser Center (CVLC), we understand that intimate concerns can be some of the most difficult to talk about. For more than 25 years, our team has combined leading-edge technology with genuine compassion to solve problems that other clinics often overlook. One such condition is penile papules, a common yet often misunderstood concern. While these tiny bumps are harmless, many men feel anxious about their appearance and seek treatment to restore confidence. At CVLC, our specialists provide discreet, effective solutions tailored to your needs.

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What Are Penile Papules?

Penile papules, also known as pearly penile papules (PPP), are small, flesh-colored or white bumps that typically form around the head of the penis. They are dome-shaped and may appear in one or more rows. Although they can resemble sexually transmitted infections, penile papules are benign, non-infectious, and not linked to poor hygiene.

How Do Penile Papules Form?

These bumps often appear after puberty and are thought to be related to normal anatomical variations. Penile papules occur in up to 10–43% of men and can persist into adulthood. They are not contagious, do not develop from sexual activity, and carry no risk of turning into cancer or other harmful conditions. Their exact cause isn’t fully understood, but their presence is completely normal.

Available Treatments for Penile Papules

While penile papules don’t require medical treatment, many men pursue removal to reduce anxiety and improve self-confidence. At CVLC, we offer safe and effective options, including:

  • CO2 Laser Treatment – Considered the gold standard, this precise laser technology removes papules with minimal risk of recurrence. The laser works by carefully vaporizing the raised tissue while preserving the surrounding skin, which reduces discomfort and supports smooth healing. It is highly controlled, making it both safe and effective for delicate areas.
  • Electrocautery or Curettage – Alternative options that may be effective but are typically associated with higher recurrence rates and greater risk of side effects. Electrocautery uses heat to burn away the bumps, while curettage physically scrapes them from the surface. Although both can remove papules, they often carry a greater chance of scarring, pigment changes, and longer recovery compared to CO2 laser treatment.

Our physicians will evaluate your concerns and recommend the most effective approach, focusing on long-term safety and natural-looking results.

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What to Expect During Your Treatment

Your comfort and privacy are our top priorities. Treatment generally begins with a topical numbing cream followed by local anesthesia to ensure the procedure is pain-free. Using advanced CO2 laser technology, our team precisely targets and removes the papules without harming the surrounding skin. Most treatments are completed in a single visit, and downtime is minimal. While mild swelling or redness may occur, these effects fade quickly, allowing patients to return to daily activities with confidence.

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Why Choose CVLC?

At CVLC, we are known as Western New York’s “Fixers” for a reason. With over 55 years of combined experience in aesthetic dermatology, plastic surgery, and laser medicine, our board-certified physicians—Dr. Daniel Buscaglia, Dr. Lisa Brauer, and Dr. Danielle Dauria—are trusted leaders in solving complex aesthetic concerns. 

Dr. Buscaglia, in particular, is regarded as one of the most accomplished laser physicians worldwide, giving our patients access to advanced treatment with unmatched expertise. Beyond technical excellence, we are committed to patient-centered care, offering discretion, empathy, and results you can feel good about.

Penile Papules FAQs

Are penile papules sexually transmitted?

Do penile papules ever go away on their own?

Is CO2 laser treatment safe?

Will there be scarring after treatment?

Can penile papules come back after treatment?

Are penile papules sexually transmitted?

No. They are not contagious and cannot be spread through sexual contact.

Do penile papules ever go away on their own?

In most cases, they remain stable after puberty and do not disappear without treatment.

Is CO2 laser treatment safe?

Yes. CO2 laser therapy has been used in medicine for decades and is considered a safe, reliable, and effective option for removing penile papules with a low risk of complications.

Will there be scarring after treatment?

While all skin treatments carry some risk, scarring is rare when performed by experienced providers and with proper aftercare.

Can penile papules come back after treatment?

Recurrence is uncommon with CO2 laser treatment, but in rare cases, bumps may reappear and can be easily retreated.

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