If you have a fibrous papule of the nose, also called a dermal fibroma, you may notice a small bump on the outside of your nose. This growth is usually benign, meaning it’s not cancerous.
Fibrous papules are most common in young adults. In some cases, they may go away on their own. However, if you’re concerned about the way they look, you may want to talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Fibrous Papule Defined
A fibrous papule is a small, benign growth that commonly appears on the nose and other areas of the face. While they are typically painless and harmless, fibrous papules can be unsightly for some people.
Fibrous papules are made up of collagen-producing cells called fibroblasts. They most often occur in middle-aged adults and are more common in men than women. Fibrous papules are not cancerous and do not become cancerous.
Who Gets Fibrous Papules?
A fibrous papule of the nose is a small, benign growth that appears on the nose. These growths are usually pink, red, or flesh-colored and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters.
Fibrous papules are most common in middle-aged adults, but they can occur at any age. They are not cancerous and do not require treatment. However, some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Complications from fibrous papules of the nose are rare but can include bleeding and infection.
Causes of Fibrous Papule
Fibrous papules are believed to be caused by an overgrowth of collagen in the skin. Collagen is a tough, fibrous protein that gives structure to the skin.
The overgrowth of collagen may be due to the following:
- Genetics
- Sun Exposure
- Family History
- Immunosuppression
- Viral Infections
- Trauma
What are the symptoms of fibrous papules?
Some of the fibrous papule symptoms include the following:
- Small, benign growths commonly appear on the nose.
- They are usually round or oval-shaped and range in color from skin-toned to reddish-brown.
- Fibrous papules typically measure 1-5 millimeters in diameter.
While fibrous papules are generally harmless, they can sometimes be a source of cosmetic concern. If a fibrous papule is large or appears on a visible area of the face, it may be removed for aesthetic reasons.
If you’re wondering how to cure papules, note that they are not actually cancerous and do not require treatment unless they are causing discomfort or affecting appearance. In some cases, topical medications may be used to shrink the size of the growth. More aggressive treatments, such as laser therapy or surgery, are generally not necessary.
How is a fibrous papule diagnosed?
There are a few ways that a fibrous papule can be diagnosed.
- A physical examination is usually the step in diagnosing a fibrous papule. Your doctor will look at the growth and feel it to see if it’s hard or soft. They may also use a lighted instrument called a derma to scope to get a closer look at the growth.
- If your doctor suspects that the growth may be cancerous, they may recommend a biopsy. This is a procedure where they remove a small piece of tissue from the growth and examine it under a microscope. A biopsy can help confirm whether or not the growth is cancerous.
- In some cases, imaging tests may also be used to diagnose a fibrous papule. This could include an MRI or CT scan. These tests can help show if the growth is benign or malignant.
What are the complications of fibrous papules?
Fibrous papules are small, benign growths that commonly occur on the nose.
Though they are harmless, fibrous papules can be unsightly and cause cosmetic concerns. Fibrous papules can become irritated or inflamed, causing discomfort.
In rare cases, it may indicate the presence of a more serious condition, such as skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor if you notice any unusual growths on your skin.
How to Get Rid of Fibrous Papule
A fibrous papule is a small, benign growth that commonly appears on the nose. Though harmless, some people may choose to treat fibrous papules for cosmetic reasons.
Here are a few fibrous papule treatment options:
Shave biopsy
A shave biopsy is a type of minor surgery that is used to remove skin lesions. It is a common treatment for fibrous papules, which are small, benign growths that commonly occur on the nose and cheeks.
The procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. During the procedure, the lesion is numbed with local anesthesia. A small razor is then used to shave off the top layer of skin. The area is then covered with a bandage.
Shave biopsies are generally safe and have a low risk of complications. The main risks are bleeding and infection. Recovery from a shave biopsy usually takes about one week. During this time, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
Excision
A fibrous papule is a small, benign growth that commonly appears on the nose and cheeks of adults. While they are not harmful, many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Excision is a common treatment option for fibrous papules.
During the procedure, the growth is carefully cut out with a scalpel. The surrounding tissue is also removed to ensure that all of the papules is gone. This can be done under local anesthesia, meaning that you will not be put to sleep for the procedure.
Recovery from excision is typically quick and easy. You may have some swelling and bruising around the site of the incision, but this should go away within a week or two. Once healed, the area will be permanently free of the fibrous papule.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy treatment is a type of medical procedure that uses freezing temperatures to destroy abnormal tissue. It can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including fibrous papules.
Cryotherapy treatment can be used to remove fibrous papules by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, and it does not usually require any downtime.
Cryotherapy treatment can be an effective way to remove fibrous papules. However, it is important to note that this treatment may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns about cryotherapy, be sure to speak with your doctor or dermatologist.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy treatment is a popular and effective treatment option for fibrous papules. This minimally invasive procedure uses concentrated beams of light to target and destroys the excess tissue that makes up the papule.
Laser therapy treatment is usually performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal downtime or side effects. In most cases, multiple treatments are necessary to achieve desired results. However, patients can expect to see a significant improvement in the appearance of their skin after just one session.
If you are considering laser therapy treatment for fibrous papules, be sure to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has experience with this procedure. They will be able to determine if you are a good candidate and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery is a treatment for fibrous papules that uses high-frequency electrical energy to destroy the lesion. The procedure is usually performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Electrosurgery can be used to treat many different skin conditions, including warts, moles, and skin tags. It is a relatively safe and effective procedure with minimal side effects. The most common side effect is temporary swelling and redness at the treatment site.
Electrosurgery is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option for fibrous papules. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications that should be discussed with your doctor prior to treatment.
Final Thoughts
A fibrous papule of the nose is a harmless growth that typically occurs on the nose. While it is not cancerous, it can become irritated and cause discomfort. If this occurs, treatment options are available to reduce symptoms. With proper care, the fibrous papule of the nose is not a cause for concern. If you are in Houston, Texas, and looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss surgical treatment options, contact Skin Cancer Specialist.
We can determine if fibrous papule removal through surgery is the best option for you and help you decide on the most appropriate procedure. We have locations in Sugarland, Katy, and Conroe, TX.
