Circumcision

What is a circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin, the layer of skin covering the head of the penis, is removed.

Why might circumcision be needed?

Circumcision may be recommended for a variety of medical conditions, including:

• Phimosis: when the foreskin is too tight and cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis, leading to discomfort or difficulty urinating.
• Paraphimosis: a condition where the foreskin becomes trapped behind the head of the penis and cannot return to its original position.
• Balanitis: recurrent inflammation or infections of the foreskin and head of the penis, often caused by poor hygiene or a tight foreskin.
• Foreskin problems following injury: in rare cases, an injury to the foreskin may require circumcision as part of treatment.
• Cultural or religious reasons.

What does the circumcision procedure involve?

When patients arrive at the hospital, they will meet a nurse the anaesthetist and their surgeon.

Circumcision is typically performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon will remove the foreskin and close the incision with dissolvable stitches. The entire procedure usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.

Potential risks and complications of circumcision

As with any surgery, circumcision carries some risks. However, serious complications are rare. Potential risks include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding or prolonged swelling.
• Delayed wound healing.
• Painful erections during recovery.
• Excessive scarring or an unsatisfactory cosmetic result.

If patients notice signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, or fever) or experience significant bleeding, they should contact their doctor immediately.

After the circumcision operation

After the circumcision, it is normal to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising around the area. Pain relief medication, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, will be prescribed to help manage discomfort. Swelling and bruising should improve within a week or two.

After surgery, it is crucial to care for the wound properly to avoid infection and promote healing. Patients will be advised to keep the area clean by washing gently with water. Patients should avoid using soaps or lotions that may irritate the skin. It is important to allow the wound to heal naturally; the dissolvable stitches will typically disappear within 1 to 2 weeks.

Here are some tips:

• Keep the area dry for the first 24 to 48 hours, then you may shower, but avoid soaking the wound in baths for at least two weeks.
• Wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing to prevent rubbing against the surgical site.
• Avoid sexual activity, including masturbation, for at least four to six weeks to allow the wound to heal fully.
• Avoid vigorous physical activities, such as running or heavy lifting, for around two weeks.

It is normal for the head of the penis to be more sensitive after circumcision. This sensitivity usually reduces over time.

Most patients can return to work or school within a week, provided their job does not involve strenuous physical activity. Full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks. Patients will be given specific advice based on recovery based on their individual case. This will include when it is safe to resume normal activities like exercise and sexual activity.

Once the recovery process is complete, circumcision should not affect sexual function or urination. Some patients may notice reduced sensitivity in the head of the penis, but this is not usually a significant concern for most. Circumcision can reduce the risk of certain infections, including urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections, as well as lower the risk of penile cancer.

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