Do I Need Surgery for Yellow Bumps Under My Foreskin? - Urology

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If there are small yellowish granules under the foreskin, is surgery necessary? There are also skin-colored granules on the edge of the ear, but I scraped them off.
If it only requires topical treatment, should I go see a doctor in Qishan?

123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/03/17

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology


Common skin protrusions may be caused by keratin abnormality leading to milia, which appear as skin-colored or light brown, round, multiple small nodules resembling tiny beads, about the size of a pinhead.
These are primarily due to cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis.
They may also arise from androgen-induced sebaceous gland hyperplasia during puberty, ectopic sebaceous glands, or epidermal pigment deposition.
However, milia typically appear white, while sebaceous gland hyperplasia appears yellow, and treatment is usually unnecessary for milia.
Some milia can occur on the penis or directly on the nipples.
Additionally, there are small papules known as penile pearly papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, does not require treatment.
Approximately 10% of males may develop penile pearly papules.
These small papules are arranged in rows (circumferentially) along the coronal sulcus of the penis, ranging from the size of a pinhead to that of a millet seed, and are skin-colored or light pink.
They cannot be washed or scraped off, are painless and itch-free, representing a benign skin condition.
The exact cause is still unclear; however, they do not impact the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and are not contagious.
The color of penile pearly papules can be pink, white, or yellow, with transparent ones being less common.
They typically measure 1-2 mm in width and 1-4 mm in length, appearing as round papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
They usually have no symptoms and are often discovered incidentally by the patient.
However, if there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or urologist, as a physician often needs to perform visual inspection, palpation, and patient history to confirm the diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2011/03/17

More Info


When it comes to the presence of yellow bumps or small yellowish granules under the foreskin, it is essential to first understand what these bumps could be. The most common causes of such bumps include pearly penile papules, Fordyce spots, or sebaceous cysts. These conditions are generally benign and do not require surgical intervention. However, if you are experiencing discomfort, pain, or any other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

1. Understanding the Bumps:
- Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are a normal anatomical variant and do not require treatment.

- Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are actually enlarged sebaceous glands. They are also benign and do not necessitate any surgical intervention.

- Sebaceous Cysts: These can occur when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. They are usually harmless but can become infected or inflamed, in which case treatment may be necessary.

2. When to Consider Surgery:
- Surgery is generally not required for benign conditions like pearly penile papules or Fordyce spots. However, if the bumps are symptomatic (causing pain, irritation, or recurrent infections), or if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis, a healthcare provider may recommend surgical removal or other treatments.

- If there is a concern about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other pathological conditions, a healthcare provider may perform tests to rule out these possibilities.

3. Consulting a Healthcare Professional:
- It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you notice any new or unusual changes in your genital area. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

- If you are considering seeing a doctor in Qishan, it would be beneficial to find a urologist or a dermatologist who specializes in skin conditions of the genital area. They can offer you the best advice based on a physical examination.

4. Self-Care and Treatment Options:
- If the bumps are determined to be benign and not causing any discomfort, no treatment may be necessary. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the area clean can help prevent any potential irritation or infection.

- If you are experiencing irritation or discomfort, over-the-counter topical treatments may help, but it is best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

In summary, the presence of yellow bumps under the foreskin is often benign and does not require surgery. However, if you have concerns about the bumps or if they are causing discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss any necessary treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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