What is a fibrous papule?
A fibrous papule is a spot on the nose that people get in early to mid adult life. A fibrous papule may measures between 1mm to 5mm in diameter.
A fibrous papule is usually firm and like a small dome but occasionally can stick out a little more, much like a small wart or skin tag.
A fibrous papule may be skin coloured or red.
Why do fibrous papules occur?
Fibrous papules are benign (non-cancerous) growths of the skin that occur with ageing. An individual usually only has one lesion, or sometimes two. When examined under the microscope, fibrous papules contain collagen and blood vessels. Their medical name is angiofibroma.
How is a fibrous papule diagnosed?
Sometimes it is possible for an expert to diagnose a fibrous papules at a clinical examination. However it can be difficult to distinguish a fibrous papule from other growths of the skin such as a mole, tumour of the hair follicle or skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma. More information on other growths that may resemble fibrous papules can be found here.
Fibrous papules usually occur on the nose but they can develop anywhere on the face such as the cheeks, chin or around the mouth.
What are the symptoms of a fibrous papules?
Fibrous papules do not usually cause any symptoms. They are removed either because of cosmetic reasons or because a histology test is required.
How is a fibrous papule treated?
A fibrous papules can be scraped off or cauterised. It is always sent for histological testing if it is not possible to distinguish from a skin tumour.
What happens during fibrous papule removal ?
Two methods are used for removal of fibrous papules.
- Scrape excision. The fibrous papule is scraped/shaved off. The wound is then cauterised.
- Cautery. The skin tag is focally burnt off using electrosurgery with a very fine tip.
A local anaesthetic injection is used.
A very superficial wound results. This is covered with Vaseline, and will scab over and heal over a period of a few days usually between 5 to 7 days. A dressing is not required unless it is in an area that is prone to rubbing or chaffing in which case a dressing is used to protect the skin until it has healed.
Histological testing may be required.
Fibrous papules may occasionally recur once they have been treated.
A small scar with a change in texture and skin colour may be noted on close up examination at the location from which the fibrous papule was removed.
How does the skin heal following fibrous papule removal?
A small scab will develop in the treated area which will go after 5 days. You will be asked to apply vaseline four times a day. Small lesions usually heal very well.
What is the aftercare and recovery following fibrous papule removal?
We ask you to avoid heavy exercise or anything strenuous for the rest of the day. The areas that have been treated need to be kept clean and dry. You can cleanse them once or twice a day with water and a cotton pad. People can usually return to an office job straight away. Wounds in areas that are prone to rubbing or chaffing are covered with a splash proof dressing.
What are the risks of having a fibrous papule removal procedure?
This is generally a very safe procedure with a high level of satisfaction. Larger lesions may leave a light scar or mild identation.
How can I book a fibrous papule removal?
We are able to offer same day consultation and treatment for a fibrous papule removal. Send us a picture for assessment and a quote will be provided. When you attend the fibrous papule will be examined first to ensure it is suitable for a removal procedure and you will be advised if histology is required. An additional charge applies if histological testing is required. Same day procedures are only undertaken where it is deemed safe and appropriate to do. If a procedure is not appropriate for you, or you decide not to proceed with a same day procedure, then a consultation fee applies.
Read more about same day procedures.
Fees for fibrous papule removal can be found here.
Other skin lesions
Our clinic also offers removal of genital skin tags, moles, cysts, warts, seborrhoeic keratoses, sebaceous gland hyperplasia and milia.