Post-Surgery Concerns: Wart Recurrence and Healing

Postoperative inquiry regarding cauliflower?

Hello, at the beginning of January, I noticed a small lesion on my glans and visited a urologist who recommended a biopsy.
It was later diagnosed as genital warts.
I was advised to monitor the area for recurrence over the next six months.
In early February, unsure about the situation, I scheduled a follow-up appointment with the same urologist while I was already going for blood tests.
The doctor said everything looked fine and advised me to maintain good hygiene.

Today, out of curiosity, I examined the area and noticed that the site of the electrosurgery still does not appear as smooth as normal skin.
I'm uncertain if what I see is a scar from the electrosurgery or if there is a new growth.
It looks like a small scar and a tiny dot, but compared to the original 0.2 cm wart, it seems to be about 5-10 times smaller.
Without proper lighting and careful observation, it is almost undetectable, and it does not have the raised appearance of the previous wart.
I'm not sure if the unevenness from the electrosurgery is causing this illusion.
Could you please advise if it is possible for a new wart to 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's too small, the doctor might overreact.
Additionally, does the area treated with electrosurgery typically heal with uneven scarring? It seems that what was once a longer scar has now become shorter and more like a dot.
Is there a chance it will gradually return to being completely smooth?

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

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology

It is recommended to monitor the situation, and if it continues to enlarge, then seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2020/02/29

More Info

Post-surgery concerns, particularly regarding the recurrence of warts (also known as genital warts when they occur in the genital area), can be quite distressing for patients. It’s important to understand the nature of these lesions, the healing process after treatment, and what signs to look for in terms of recurrence.

Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). When you underwent treatment, such as electrosurgery (commonly referred to as "electro-cautery"), the goal was to remove the visible warts and reduce the viral load in the area. However, it is crucial to note that while the visible warts may be removed, the virus can remain dormant in the skin cells, potentially leading to recurrence.

In your case, you mentioned that the treated area still appears uneven and that you are unsure whether the changes you see are due to the healing process or a recurrence of the warts. It is common for the skin to heal unevenly after such procedures. The area may initially appear red, swollen, or have a different texture as it heals. Scarring can also occur, which may lead to a bumpy or uneven surface. Over time, many scars can flatten and become less noticeable, but this process can take weeks to months.

Regarding your concerns about the possibility of a recurrence, it is indeed possible for new warts to develop, especially if the HPV virus is still present in the skin. The size of any new growth can vary; they can be very small and may not resemble the original warts. It’s important to monitor the area for any changes in size, color, or texture. If you notice any growth that seems to change or if you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult your urologist or dermatologist for a professional evaluation.

In terms of your specific situation, if the area appears smaller than the original wart and does not have the same raised appearance, it may very well be a part of the healing process. However, if you are feeling uncertain, it is always better to err on the side of caution. You could consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss your observations. They can provide a thorough examination and reassurance regarding the healing process and any potential need for further treatment.

As for the scarring, it is normal for the treated area to have some irregularities initially. Over time, many patients find that their scars become less noticeable. There are also treatments available, such as silicone gel sheets or topical treatments, that can help improve the appearance of scars. If you are concerned about the appearance of your scar, discussing this with your healthcare provider may yield options for scar management.

In summary, while it is natural to be concerned about the recurrence of warts after treatment, it is also important to recognize that healing can take time and may result in changes to the skin's texture. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If you notice any significant changes or have ongoing concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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