Papilloma removal

What are papillomas?

Papillomas are benign skin or mucous membrane lesions, most commonly appearing in body areas where skin folds form or skin rubs, for example, armpits, groin, under breasts. These skin lesions can cause aesthetic discomfort, interfere with daily activities, and sometimes become irritated or bleed due to skin friction or contact with clothing and jewelry.

Often colloquially referred to as papillomas, are typically benign skin growths not caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). While HPV causes certain types of warts, the skin lesions commonly found in skin folds are usually non-viral in origin. Their appearance is often associated with friction, obesity, insulin resistance, and genetics. Other benign skin lesions resembling skin tags may include seborrheic keratoses. Skin tags can appear at any age, but occur more frequently in adults and older people.

Laser papilloma removal is minimally invasive procedure during which laser beams precisely destroy papilloma tissue without damaging surrounding healthy tissues. Procedure features minimal bleeding, scar, and hyperpigmentation risk, and skin usually heals quickly. Most patients after procedure feel only mild redness or swelling and can quickly return to usual activity.

How to prepare for papilloma removal procedure?

• Before procedure, dermatologist consultation is expected, during which papilloma nature is assessed and possible risks are discussed. It is important to inform doctor in advance about existing diseases, allergies, and medications or supplements used.
• For laser removal of skin tags, avoiding direct sun exposure, tanning beds, and self-tanning products on the treatment area for 1-2 weeks prior is generally recommended to minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Several days before procedure, it is important not to use retinoids, acidic, or strongly exfoliating skincare products in papilloma area.
• On procedure day, papilloma area should be clean – without makeup, creams, or tanning products. If lesion is in hairy area, hair removal around it may be recommended.

Procedure course

• Before procedure, treatment site is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected; local anesthesia may be applied.
• Laser beams are directed at papilloma, precisely removing damaged tissue.

Procedure usually lasts 10–30 minutes, depending on papilloma number, size, and location. During laser treatment, slight tingling or warmth may be felt, which is usually easily tolerated due to local anesthesia.

After papilloma removal

Immediately after procedure, slight redness, swelling, or sensitivity may occur; damaged area may weep – this is normal skin healing reaction.

Usually, physical activity is not restricted; sick leave certificate is not needed. According to doctor recommendations, wound may be treated with medications; bandage is applied, which is changed for 1–3 days until wound heals.

For at least 3-5 days after procedure, heat, hot water, sauna, and ultraviolet rays should be avoided. Wound can be wetted 2–3 days after procedure. After bathing, wet bandage must be changed.

Formed scabs cannot be touched with hands or scratched. Several days after procedure, topical medications cannot be used: (tretinoin, retinol, glycolic/salicylic acid).