Pearly Penile Papules (PPP) – Symptoms & Treatment
What are Pearly Penile Papules?
Pearly penile papules (commonly referred to as “PPP”) are typically benign (non-cancerous) growths found circumferentially in a single or double row around the head of the penis. The shape, size, and color of PPP can vary between individuals, but they are most often round, 1-2 mm in diameter, and pink, flesh-colored, or translucent. All lesions on a single patient tend to be identical. Lesions first appear within the second or third decade of life.
Pearly Penile Papules Removal
Before and after photos from recent Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery patients.
PEARLY PENILE PAPULES BEFORE AND AFTER GALLERY
The images in our Pearly Penile Papules Before and After Gallery are adult and graphic in nature. Click the link below if you are over the age of 18 and are not easily offended by such images.
I am over the age of 18 and wish to proceed to the gallery.Why do some men develop PPP?
There is still no clear answer to why PPP develop. Most dermatologists consider PPP to be a normal variant of male anatomy.
What percentage of men have PPP?
Uncircumcised male patients have a higher incidence of PPP than circumcised males (22% vs. 12%). Additionally, African-American men may have a substantially higher incidence than Caucasian men.
Are PPP contagious or sexually transmitted?
Absolutely not. Patients with PPP cannot spread these lesions to other people or sexual contacts by any means. PPP are very different from genital warts, a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papilloma virus.
Can PPP be treated?
Absolutely. Two of the most effective permanent treatment options available today are pulsed-dye lasers (to target the blood vessel component of PPP) and ablative carbon dioxide lasers. Both treatments utilize heat produced by laser light to specifically destroy PPP tissue, while leaving surrounding skin and soft tissue intact.
Treatment takes approximately 15 minutes and treated areas heal completely within 1 week. Once the lesions are eliminated, they typically do not reappear.
Daniel P. Friedmann, M.D. is a fellowship-trained, board-certified dermatologist and phlebologist at Westlake Dermatology and Clinical Research Director of the Westlake Clinical Research Center. He has presented nationally on photorejuvenation, noninvasive fat reduction, radiofrequency devices, up-to-date techniques in photodynamic therapy, the management of stretch marks, and the treatment of hand, chest, and facial veins.
Interesting post, I did not realize such a treatment existed. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Daniel, Its short but informative. Thanks for sharing!
THNX FOR EXPLORING THIS DISEASE, HAD THESE THINGZ TOO
How did u get rid of them!?
Hi Daniel is there any cream or medicine for treatment of PPP…
Hi Amit,
Thanks for reading our post and submitting your question. Unfortunately topical treatments for PPP are very ineffective, the best options are cryosurgery or laser treatment. We prefer the latter in most cases as it is an easier and less painful treatment.
We hope that helps!
–WD Staff
Do insurance cover the cost of treatment?
Hi Albert,
While insurance plans differ on coverage, unfortunately most insurance companies will not cover treatment. This is because most would deem it not medically necessary (you can read more on that here: https://www.westlakedermatology.com/blog/does-medical-insurance-cover-plastic-surgery/).
However you might want to call your provider just in case to double check. Maybe you can make a case for coverage. Otherwise may providers (including ourselves) offer simple 0% interest financing!
I hope that helps!
Thanks,
WD Staff
How much is the treatment if I want to pay cash?
Hi Steve,
Thanks for reading our post and submitting your question. Procedure cost will really depend upon your specific needs. That will determine the type of laser used, number of treatment sessions needed, etc. Please contact us at 512.328.3376 and we can give you a preliminary quote over the phone. However, your best bet would be to schedule a free in-office consultation with Dr. Friedmann. Then we can provide the specific treatment that will work best (along with cost details).
Thanks,
WD Staff
A papule is a circumscribed, solid elevation of skin with no visible fluid, varying in area from a pinhead to 1 cm. It can be brown, purple, pink or red in color
What is the typical cost of this purcedure And is it possible to pay over time prior to having the work done?
Hi John,
Thanks for reading our post and submitting your great question. The exact cost would depend upon patient need, specifically how many treatments are required. Also we do have several 0% interest financing options through CareCredit (see https://www.westlakedermatology.com/resources/financing/ to learn more).
If you’re in the Austin area please give us a call to schedule a consultation!
Thanks,
WD Staff
Dr.Friedmann is the best doctor I ever seen in my life. I love him because he treat you as a family member. I forgot mention the staffs, they are amazing as well. Sadly, I won’t see him nor his staffs for a long time because I live far away from them. I wish them for the best.
How bad does it hurt?
Hi – is this service only offered at the Austin location or all locations?
Hi Kayden,
Currently we are only offering treatment at our mail Westlake location in Austin. Please give us a call for a consultation if you are in town!
Thanks,
WD Staff
Is this service still offered? Do you have a contact email as I have some questions
Hi Cody,
We do still offer treatment options for PPP. Please feel free to email any questions to appointments @westlakedermatology.com.
Thanks,
WD Staff