Hirsutoid Papillomas — Understanding and Treating This Common Condition
Safe, confidential assessment and removal of hirsutoid papillomas at our Central London clinic using expert electrosurgery (Hyfrecator) or CO₂ laser.
What Are Hirsutoid Papillomas?
Hirsutoid papillomas are small, harmless, dome-shaped bumps that appear around the rim of the penis head. They are a normal anatomical variant and are medically identical in behaviour to Pearly Penile Papules (PPP).
They are:
- Non-infectious
- Not sexually transmitted
- Not harmful
- Not related to hygiene or sexual activity
- Not cancerous
Many men seek treatment purely for cosmetic or personal confidence reasons.
What They Look Like
Hirsutoid papillomas typically appear as:
- Small white or skin-coloured bumps
- Arranged symmetrically around the corona (rim of the penis head)
- Smooth and evenly spaced
- Painless and non-itchy
- Do not discharge or bleed
You may have found this page after searching for:
- “small bumps around head of penis”
- “row of white dots on penis rim”
- “tiny bumps that won’t go away”
- “how to get rid of bumps around the corona”
- “are bumps around penis normal?”
These are common descriptions.
Are Hirsutoid Papillomas the Same as PPP?
Yes.
Hirsutoid papillomas are considered a variant of Pearly Penile Papules, but both terms describe the same benign condition.
Learn more on our Pearly Penile Papules (PPP) page
Are They Harmful?
No. Hirsutoid papillomas are:
- A normal anatomical variant
- Not a disease
- Not an STI
- Not contagious
- Not caused by masturbation or sexual contact
They do not require medical treatment unless removal is desired for cosmetic or emotional reasons.
Diagnosis (In Clinic)
Diagnosis is made visually by an experienced clinician. No laboratory tests, swabs, or biopsies are required when the appearance is typical.
Treatment Options
Electrosurgery (Hyfrecator) — Our Recommended Method
The most precise and effective method for treating hirsutoid papillomas
Advantages:
- Immediate results
- Highly accurate
- Minimal discomfort
- Quick recovery
- No stitches required
- Excellent cosmetic outcome
- Very low recurrence rate
CO₂ Laser (Optional)
Used selectively where laser resurfacing is appropriate. Your clinician will advise on suitability.
What to Expect During Treatment
Consultation
We confirm the diagnosis and discuss the treatment plan.
Anaesthetic
A small amount of local anaesthetic ensures minimal discomfort.
Electrosurgery Treatment
Each bump is precisely removed using a controlled electrosurgical instrument.
Typical duration: 20–25 minutes
Aftercare & Healing
Healing is generally fast, with small scabs forming and resolving over several days.
Recovery Timeline
Most patients experience:
- Light redness for 24–48 hours
- Small scabs for 5–7 days
- Normal appearance returning soon afterward
- Minimal downtime
- Long-term results without functional changes
Why Choose Our Clinic?
- Specialist experience in PPP and hirsutoid papilloma removal
- Electrosurgery recommended for the vast majority of patients
- Thousands of successful treatments
- Private, discreet Central London location
- Same-day treatment often available
- Expert, reassuring care throughout your visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Book a Confidential Assessment for Hirsutoid Papilloma Removal
Safe, fast, and discreet treatment at our Central London clinic.


