Immediate clearance of PPP
Using Hyfrecation, you don’t need to wait for results to be seen
Same Day Treatment
For those who have filled out the questionnaire with images
Friendly & Professional
Our experienced clinicians are here to make the process as smooth & easy as possible for you
Our Method – Hyfrecation
Local anaesthetic
Numbing cream or penile block
Number of visits
Procedure + Follow Up (if needed)
Length of appointments
45 minutes + 30 minutes (if needed)
Recovery
Continue with your day, minimising physical activity
Locations
Whilst Hyfrecation is an established treatment method and has been in practice for more than 80 years, it is a lesser well known method of treatment compared to Laser in the UK.
Hyfrecation is a minor surgical procedure that works by burning off skin lesions using electrocautery and results in the immediate clearance of these lesions.
Carried out under local anaesthesia, Hyfrecation is a very safe procedure which achieves clear results in almost 100% of patients for the treatment of PPP. Sometimes a touch up may be needed a couple of weeks later to achieve the best results.
The procedure will leave a small raw area which should heal over in a few days. Being a medical procedure, it is essential to be aware of any possible side effects.
Possible short term side effects include bleeding, bruising, soreness and infection. Long term side effects are rare, but can include change in skin colour, scarring, development of neuralgic pain and loss of sensation over the treated area.
Eligibility
It is important to understand that treatment of Pearly Penile Papules is a cosmetic procedure. As such, if your life is unaffected by this, then you absolutely do not need to get treated.
However, if you find that your relationships, wellbeing and lifestyle is affected, we will discuss this with you and make sure that treatment is the right thing to do.
How do I know if I am eligible for treatment?
Whilst it is only really after seeing you that we can make sure that you’re eligible for treatment, submitting our questionnaire (with pictures) will give us a very good idea.
Can I have this treatment if I have been treated before?
Absolutely. We occasionally take on patients who have had laser treatment in the past requiring further treatment, due to unsatisfactory outcome or recurrence. Hyfrecation treatment can be safely performed in such patients with excellent results.
From what age can I be treated for PPP?
We can see patients from the age of 18 and above at our clinic.
Are there any health conditions that might stop me from getting treated for PPP?
Patients with any of the following conditions will need to address them before undertaking the Hyfrecation treatment:
- Infection of the surrounding skin
- An outbreak of genital herpes
- Localised active Inflammatory conditions of the penile skin (for example, eczema)
- If you suffer from diabetes, and your sugar levels are out of control
- If you suffer from hypertension, and your Blood Pressure is not controlled
The Process
The consultation and procedure happen in one appointment, as long as it’s safe to do so.
Questionnaire
In order to be prepared and leave plenty of time for discussion and procedure, we will ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire.
Consultation
We will assess and confirm your Pearly Penile Papules and then discuss any questions you have and treatments available.
Procedure
Should you wish to proceed with treatment, we will offer you our Hyfrecation procedure, with same day removal.
Follow Up
We recommend a follow up (within 4 weeks) to ensure that we’ve done a good job and if any further treatment is needed, we want to do it for you.
Aftercare
If you’ve just received PPP treatment from us and are seeking advice on recovery and after, we’ve got the right information for you just here.
General
Can Pearly Penile Papules be cured?
Since PPPs are a normal part of the anatomy and not infectious, there’s no need to “cure” them. However, they can be safely and successfully removed by a variety of methods including hyfrecation for cosmetic reasons.
What are the benefits to treating Pearly Penile Papules?
PPPs are harmless and normal but their presence can cause psychological distress. Their appearance can be perceived as unsightly, or they may be mistaken for an STI which can cause significant stigma. People who are distressed by PPP may feel having them removed improves their self-esteem, confidence, and overall sex life.
When is the best time to book my Pearly Penile Papules treatment?
Treatment of PPPs is a straightforward procedure and can be undertaken at a time of your convenience.
However, we recommend that you have thought through over a period of time to decide if you really would like to have the treatment.
We recommend that you have not planned being away on holidays or abroad for 2 weeks after the procedure in the unlikely event that you need a follow-up care.
Is there anything I can do at home if I have Pearly Penile Papules?
No. There are no home remedies that have been shown to be effective at removing penile papules.
If you notice any new lesions on your genitals, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
If you have PPP, it’s highly discouraged to attempt any home remedies, including physical removal, burning, squeezing or “popping” the papules, or application of any over-the-counter remedies.
To learn more about home treatment for PPP, please click here.
Before the appointment
How can I prepare for my PPP treatment?
We recommend that you have a shower on the day of your appointment to reduce the risk of infection.
Will I need to take time off after my appointment?
You should be able to return to your normal day after the procedure, as long as your job is not physically demanding.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, however, if you feel that you would rather not bring someone to the appointment, rest assured that our staff are here to support you and make you comfortable in any way possible.
What travel arrangements should I make for after the appointment?
Patients should be fine to travel/drive alone and do not need to make any special arrangements. However, if you would feel more comfortable, you may request a family member/friend/partner to accompany you on the way home.
During the appointment
How will the appointment work?
Once you arrive we will begin with the initial consultation, to discuss and review your lesions.
Then, we will proceed to prepare you for the procedure (as long as you have booked in for same day treatment). This will involve going through the consent form, taking any pre-procedure pictures and applying the numbing cream in privacy.
After letting the numbing cream settle for approx. 15-20 minutes, we will check to make sure the area is numb and then move forward to burn the lesions.
After the procedure, we will offer you aftercare advice and give you an aftercare pack with some items to help with the recovery.
Will the procedure hurt?
Almost all of our patients find treatment of PPP with hyfrecation painless. Your clinician will confirm the total numbness of skin before undertaking the procedure.
Can I listen to my music during the procedure?
Yes, absolutely you can. Please let us know at the time of your booking (or upon your arrival) so that we are ready to accommodate your wishes.
After the appointment
What should I expect after my appointment?
You may experience a little soreness at the operated site. This is completely normal and some standard painkillers can help with this.
We advise you avoid undertaking heavy physical activities (work, gym) for 48 hours after the procedure.
What do I do if I think I have a problem after the appointment?
We recommend all patients have a thorough read of the information above as it will help with key questions.
If you think that something is wrong, please request a follow up call by contacting our clinic.
How soon after my appointment can I have sex?
It’s advised to abstain from sex and avoid masturbation until healing is complete (approx. 1 week). Having intercourse during the healing process can increase the risk of infection, scarring or bleeding.
Will I require a follow up appointment after my appointment?
All patients are offered a follow-up appointment within 4 weeks after their procedure. This is to ensure that all the lesions have been treated and that you are happy with the procedure.
This will also give you a chance to ask any further questions that you may have.
Don’t wait months.
Fees
Genital Dermatology Consultation £150
Pearly Penile Papules Treatment (inc. consultation) £750-1000
Follow up (within 4 weeks) Included
Health Insurance
Find out if you can claim your visit
Page reviewed by Dr Manoj Malu
Last reviewed date: 1 April 2022
Next review due: 1 April 2025
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only.
It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
References & Further Reading
- Journal of Dermatological Surgery (2008): Fractional Resurfacing for the Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules
- American Journal of Men’s Health (2016): Diagnosis and Management of Pearly Penile Papules
- Indian Journal of Dermatology (2015): Multiple Shiny Papules on the Shaft of the Penis
- Lasers in Medical Science Journal (2016): Laser therapy for the treatment of pearly penile papules