TULIP® vs. Traditional Lichen Sclerosus Treatments

A chronic skin disease that primarily affects postmenopausal women over the age of 50, lichen sclerosus manifests as painful and sometimes itchy lesions on the vulva, anus and general urogenital area. Its exact cause is unknown, but the condition isn’t infectious.

Beginning as white, wrinkly and thin patches of skin, lichen sclerosus grows and evolves if left untreated, producing blistered and ulcerated sores, painful cycles of scarring and skin prone to tearing and bruising. Even mild to moderate cases of lichen sclerosus can significantly interfere with normal daily activities.

Traditionally, there has been a lack of effective, lasting treatment options for lichen sclerosus. Unsatisfied with existing topical steroid and invasive surgical approaches, accomplished urogynecologist and head of the Coyle Institute, Dr. Michael Coyle, has developed a new treatment for the condition designed to restore quality of life and minimize recurrence. This breakthrough treatment is known as the TULIP® procedure.

Conventional Treatment Approaches: Limited Relief, Lingering Risks

Physicians have long turned to topical steroids and surgery as the two primary conventional treatments for lichen sclerosus.

Topical Steroids

Applied directly to the skin, these drugs repress the body’s immune reactions to reduce inflammation. They require long-term, often daily use, do not address underlying tissue damage and lead to high rates of relapse. Even when consistently applied, topical steroids yield inconsistent results. When overapplied or misused, they can result in skin thinning, discoloration, stretch marks and inflammation.

Surgical Options

For severe or steroid-resistant cases of lichen sclerosus, physicians have traditionally resorted to invasive surgical procedures such as vulvectomy and skin grafts. Although these procedures have proven effective at relieving structural changes and reducing scars, they come with high risks of infection and other complications. They also require lengthy recovery times that stretch for weeks, if not months. These procedures can have a serious psychological impact, as surgical treatment in intimate areas can seriously damage body image and confidence.

The TULIP® Procedure: Regenerative Innovation at the Coyle Institute

Dr. Michael Coyle at the Coyle Institute in Pensacola, Florida, developed the TULIP® procedure to make lichen sclerosus treatment easier for women. The single-treatment approach takes only three days, making it accessible to patients willing to travel from around the world.

Short for “Targeted Urogynecologic Laser and Injection Procedure,” TULIP® involves the application of a ProFractional™ laser to clear damaged tissue and address the root causes of tissue breakdown and inflammation. After this process, Dr. Coyle promotes healing through platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP uses the patient’s own blood to promote cellular growth and regenerate tissue.

Outcomes and Efficacy: What the Data—and Our Patients—Tell Us

Topical steroid treatment for lichen sclerosus results in lapse rates as high as 84% over a period of four years, and surgery success varies even after extensive periods of recovery. By contrast, the vast majority of Coyle Institute patients have experienced a 100% recovery rate with no symptom recurrence after the TULIP® procedure.

Side Effects and Risks: A Clear Distinction

The traditional treatments for lichen sclerosus carry a high incidence of risks and side effects. Topical steroids can cause everything from skin thinning and irritation to potential systemic effects, like elevated blood glucose levels. Surgical treatment approaches come with elevated risks of infection, scarring and possible complications from anesthesia. Although it might cause mild localized bruising and temporary discomfort, TULIP® carries no surgical risks and few side effects.

Patient Experience: Comfort, Convenience and Confidence

The constant application and often unpleasant side effects of topical steroids can have a disastrous effect on patient comfort, convenience and confidence. Likewise, surgery can undermine patient well-being with its time-consuming prep, daunting recovery times and multiple follow-up visits. Fortunately, the rapid, outpatient TULIP® procedure requires no anesthesia, minimal downtime and long-term peace of mind.

Is TULIP® Right for You?

Ideal for women seeking highly effective, minimally invasive alternatives for lichen sclerosus, TULIP® has proven successful when conventional treatment methods have failed to provide symptomatic relief. At the Coyle Institute, we empower patients to take an active role in their healing with the TULIP® procedure. Let us be your partner in your journey toward lasting wellness. It’s a journey that begins with the first step of an initial consultation.

The procedure is generally painless and well-tolerated by patients. By stimulating tissue repair and regeneration through PRP, TULIP® targets symptoms and supports long-term healing.

Redefining What’s Possible in Lichen Sclerosus Care

When it comes to results-oriented efficacy, risks, side effects and overall patient experience, the TULIP® procedure offers significant advantages over traditional topical steroids and invasive surgery. It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare provider to choose the best treatment

option for your needs. Start reclaiming your quality of life from lichen sclerosus today by contacting the Coyle Institute at 850-637-8258 for a personalized consultation.