Addressing Penile Scarring
I'm a 30-year-old male, active and healthy, with no ongoing medical conditions or prescriptions. I maintain a balanced lifestyle, avoiding alcohol and tobacco. A while back, I experienced an outbreak of molluscum contagiosum, although I'm unsure whether it was contracted through sexual contact. I sought treatment at a sexual health clinic, where I underwent cryotherapy. This treatment successfully diminished the size of the original lesion, leaving behind a scar. Currently, the scar appears prominently white compared to the surrounding skin, and its texture is firm, being primarily located beneath the skin’s surface. I've included a reference image for clarity, illustrating the situation. My concern lies in its visibility, which has made me feel self-conscious. Since that time, I have not engaged in any intimate relationships—it's been around two years. I’ve been applying silicone scar sheets and gel for about a year, yet I haven't observed significant changes to the scar's appearance. I’m looking for advice on potential treatments or procedures that could help eliminate the scar or improve its appearance. P.S. There are no functional issues with my penis; my concern is solely aesthetic.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 8:31:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a scar that is affecting your self-esteem, which is completely understandable. Scarring can be both physically and emotionally taxing, especially when it affects such a personal area. Let’s explore what you can do to improve the appearance of the scar.
Main Points:
- Current use of silicone products may take more time; consider additional treatments.
- Professional options like laser therapy or microneedling may provide better results.
- Stay patient and focused on consistent treatment, as noticeable improvement can take time.
Explanation:
Scarring, particularly from conditions like molluscum contagiosum, can sometimes persist even after successful treatment of the initial concern. Silicone sheets and gels are a common first step for scar management and can be effective, but they often require consistent use over several months for noticeable results. It’s not uncommon to feel anxious about the appearance of the scar, especially if it's firm and lighter than the surrounding skin.
Since you've been using these products for about a year without significant improvement, you might want to consider more intensive treatment options.
Next Steps:
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Continue with Silicone Gel/Sheets: While results might take time, keep using your silicone products as these can still help over the long term.
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Explore Additional Treatments:
- Laser Therapy: This involves using focused light to improve the scar’s texture and color. Various types of lasers can target pigment differences and smoothen the scar. This is often a highly effective option for scars.
- Microneedling: This technique stimulates collagen production in the skin and can help improve the texture and tone of the scar.
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Consult a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon: Even though this is primarily an aesthetic concern, seeking specialized advice can help tailor a treatment plan suited to your needs. They can provide insights on effective treatments based on your specific scar and skin type.
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Consider Scar Camouflage Products: In addition to medical treatments, some makeup products are designed specifically for scarring and can help you feel more comfortable in social situations.
Remember to stay positive throughout this process. Many people experience improvement over time with the right approaches, so being patient with the outcomes is essential. If further support or information is required, feel free to ask.
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