Post-Surgery Concerns: Wart Recurrence and Healing

Postoperative Inquiry for Cauliflower Ear

Hello, at the beginning of January, I visited a urologist because I noticed a small bump on my glans.
The doctor recommended a biopsy, which later confirmed it was a wart.
I was advised to monitor it for recurrence over the next six months.
In early February, unsure of how to assess the situation, I scheduled a follow-up appointment with the same urologist during a routine blood draw.
The doctor said everything looked fine and advised me to maintain proper hygiene.

Today, out of curiosity, I checked the area and noticed that the site where the electrosurgery was performed still does not appear as smooth as normal skin.
I'm uncertain if what I see is a scar from the electrosurgery or if a new growth has developed.
It looks like a small scar and a tiny dot, but compared to the original wart, which was about 0.2 cm, it seems to be 5-10 times smaller.
Without bright lighting and careful observation, it is almost undetectable, and it does not have the raised appearance of the previous wart.
I'm unsure if the irregularity is an illusion caused by the electrosurgery.
Could you please advise if a wart could be that small if it were to recur? Should I just continue to observe for any changes in size, or is it necessary to return to the urologist immediately? I'm concerned that if it is indeed very small, the doctor might overreact.
Additionally, is it normal for the area after electrosurgery to have uneven scars? It seems like the scar, which was initially longer, has now become shorter and more dot-like.
Is there a chance it will gradually return to being completely smooth?

Ben, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/28

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology

It is recommended to observe first, and if there is a trend of enlargement, then refer to urology.

Reply Date: 2020/02/28

More Info

Post-surgery concerns, especially regarding the recurrence of warts (often referred to as genital warts when located in the genital area), can be quite stressful for patients. It is understandable to feel anxious about the healing process and the possibility of recurrence after a procedure like electrosurgery. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you might expect regarding wart recurrence, healing, and scar formation.

Understanding Wart Recurrence
Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). After treatment, it is crucial to monitor the area for any signs of recurrence. While the procedure you underwent (electrosurgery) is effective in removing visible warts, it does not eliminate the virus from your body. HPV can remain dormant in the skin, and warts may recur, especially if the immune system is compromised or if there are other risk factors involved.

The size of any new growths can vary. It is possible for a recurrence to appear smaller than the original wart, especially if it is in the early stages of regrowth. The fact that you mentioned the new area appears smaller and less prominent is a positive sign, but it is essential to keep monitoring it. If you notice any changes in size, color, or texture, or if it starts to become more raised, it would be prudent to consult your urologist.

Healing Process and Scar Formation
After electrosurgery, it is common for the treated area to heal with some irregularities. The healing process can lead to scarring, which may appear as uneven or bumpy skin. This is due to the body’s natural healing response, where collagen is deposited in the area to repair the tissue. Over time, many scars can flatten and become less noticeable, but this process can take several months.

1. Scar Appearance: Initially, the scar may look red or darker than the surrounding skin. As healing progresses, it may fade and become less noticeable. However, some individuals may experience hypertrophic scars or keloids, which are raised scars that can occur due to excessive collagen production.

2. Smoothness of the Skin: It is not uncommon for the skin to feel uneven or bumpy after a procedure. The area may take time to smooth out as the scar matures. In many cases, the skin can return to a more normal appearance, but this varies from person to person.

3. Care for the Scar: To promote healing and potentially improve the appearance of the scar, consider the following:
- Keep the area clean and moisturized.

- Avoid sun exposure to prevent discoloration.

- If recommended by your doctor, use silicone gel sheets or topical treatments designed for scar management.

When to Seek Medical Advice
If you are uncertain about the appearance of the treated area or if you notice any changes, it is always best to consult your urologist. They can provide a professional assessment and determine whether any further treatment is necessary. It is better to address concerns early rather than wait and potentially complicate the situation.

In summary, while it is normal to have concerns about wart recurrence and the healing process, monitoring the area and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you receive the best care possible. If you have any doubts or if the area changes, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery After HPV Wart Removal

Hello Dr. Hsu, Earlier this year, I discovered a skin-colored lump in the middle of the frenulum that slowly increased in size and turned into a white wart-like lesion. On August 15, I was diagnosed with genital warts at Taipei City Hospital, and the following day I underwent el...

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
1. Assistance is available and can help prevent recurrence. You may consult a physician. 2. Not necessarily; the incubation period can sometimes last one to two years. 3. There are many types of HPV, and vaccination is available, which may be helpful. 4. You may consult an obstet...

Managing Post-Surgery Care for Genital Warts: What to Do After Bleeding

Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. Recently, I noticed a small growth on my frenulum, and after a professional diagnosis by a urologist, it was identified as a wart. I underwent laser surgery at that time. Today, I thought the surgical wound had mostly healed and decid...

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello Mr. Jiang: The bleeding from the wound and the recurrence of warts are two separate issues. Please take care of the wound first. Whether or not there is a recurrence depends on the quantity of subclinical or undetectable viral warts. I hope this answers your question.

Understanding Penile Health: Managing Warts and Post-Surgery Concerns

1. Due to having warts, I underwent circumcision recently. I've started to notice some white bumps at the site of the sutures. Are these normal, or could it be a recurrence of the warts? 2. After treatment, how long should I wait without any recurrence to feel completely r...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Please seek medical attention.

Post-Surgery Concerns for Genital Warts: Recurrence, Risks, and Testing

Hello doctor, 1. It's been 4 months since my electrosurgery, and I haven't had any new warts. I would like to know if there is still a chance of recurrence. 2. After having warts, is it safe to have unprotected sexual intercourse? Will it affect my future ability to...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) The chances are low, but it's not impossible; some intervals can be over a year. 2) Currently, it is not recommended to have unprotected intercourse. 3) DNA testing is available, but it should be considered only as a reference. 4) It is possible; a gynecological ex...