What does this procedure involve?
The procedure involves the complete removal of the foreskin. It is usually performed for one or more of the following reasons:
- a tight, non-retractile foreskin – known as phimosis;
- recurrent infections under the foreskin – known as balanitis;
- skin disease on the foreskin and glans (head of penis) – such as chronic inflammation;
- large warty lesions of the foreskin
What are the alternatives?
- Topical creams and washes (including short-term use of steroid cream) – for phimosis, these may decrease inflammation and relieve some tightness but symptoms often return once the treatment stops. They are not suitable, or effective in all patients. Circumcision is usually necessary if topical agents fail.
- Dorsal slit of the foreskin – this involves incising (cutting) the tip of your foreskin to relieve the tightness which is preventing retraction. This retains the foreskin but allows it to be pulled back. We can perform this in the health suite. A full circumcision can be performed later if required.
How can I get a circumcision at the Health Suite?
You can book directly for an initial consultation with our Consultant Urologist – Mr Rai. At the consultation, you will be seen and assessed for medications, risk factors and problems you are experiencing with your foreskin. You will be examined and the procedure explained to you.
If you are taking blood thinners or have a medical condition that might require extra support you may not be suitable for The Health Suite and may need a referral to another unit, which we can facilitate.
What happens on the day of the procedure?
Your urologist will briefly review your history and medications and will discuss the surgery again with you to confirm your consent. It is advisable to wear loose, elasticated trousers or joggers. Patients may prefer to wear tight-fitting underwear as this helps keep the dressings in place for the first few days.
- Purchase some Vaseline to use after the procedure and have a week off work afterwards.
- Avoid exercise or heavy lifting for two to three weeks afterwards until the area has healed well.
- We advise avoidance of sexual activity for about 4 weeks after the procedure.
Details of the circumcision procedure
We carry out the procedure under a local anaesthetic. Local anaesthetic nerve blocks provide postoperative pain relief
- We make a circular incision in your foreskin at a level just below the head of the penis and remove the whole foreskin; this leaves the glans (head of the penis) completely exposed
- We use dissolvable stitches to attach the skin of your penis to below your glans (see diagram); these stitches usually disappear within two to three weeks
Common Q&A about Adult Male Circumcision
Adult male circumcision is a surgical procedure where the foreskin, the skin covering the head (glans) of the penis, is removed. This procedure is typically performed for medical, cultural, or religious reasons in adulthood.
Common reasons include medical conditions like phimosis (tight foreskin), balanitis (inflammation of the foreskin or glans), or recurrent infections. Some men also choose circumcision for personal hygiene, cultural, or religious reasons.
Benefits may include a reduced risk of urinary tract infections, lower chances of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, and reduced risk of penile cancer. Some men also report improved hygiene and sexual satisfaction.
The procedure itself is performed under local or general anesthesia, so the patient should not feel pain during the surgery. After the surgery, mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and soreness can occur, but pain medication is usually prescribed to manage this.
Like any surgery, circumcision carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and in rare cases, complications with the healing process. In some cases, the sensation or function of the penis may be affected.
Full recovery typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual. During this period, patients are advised to avoid sexual activity, masturbation, and strenuous physical activity to allow the wound to heal properly.
Adult circumcision is usually done under local or general anesthesia. The foreskin is surgically removed using a scalpel or surgical tool, and the edges of the remaining skin are stitched together. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Some men report no change in sexual pleasure or performance after circumcision, while others experience changes in sensation due to the removal of the foreskin. Studies on the long-term effects of circumcision on sexual function vary, with most finding minimal impact.
The cost varies depending on the country, the type of healthcare provider, and whether insurance covers the procedure. It can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Insurance may cover it if it’s deemed medically necessary.
Proper post-operative care involves keeping the area clean, changing dressings as advised, and taking prescribed medications. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely to avoid infection and promote healing. Avoid activities that may irritate the area until it fully heals.