Circumcision

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin, which is the tissue covering the head of the penis. It is most commonly performed on newborn males, but it can also be performed on older children and adults for medical, cultural, or personal reasons.

Indications Benefits Recommendation Procedure Recovery Risks FAQ

Indications for Circumcision

Circumcision may be recommended for various reasons. Common indications include:

Medical Reasons: Circumcision may be recommended for conditions such as phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be retracted and may cause discomfort or lead to infections. Other conditions, like recurrent balanitis (inflammation of the glans), can also be managed through circumcision to prevent further issues.
Personal Preferences: Some individuals may opt for circumcision based on personal lifestyle choices or considerations related to hygiene and health.
Cultural and Religious Practices: Circumcision is often performed as part of cultural or religious customs in various communities.

Benefits of Circumcision

Circumcision offers several potential health and hygiene benefits, which can be factors for individuals considering the procedure.

Reduced Risk of Infections

Circumcision can decrease the chance of urinary tract infections during infancy and may lower the risk of acquiring certain sexually transmitted infections in adulthood.
Prevention of Penile Conditions

The procedure can prevent specific conditions such as phimosis, paraphimosis, and balanitis, which may otherwise lead to discomfort or the need for medical intervention.
Improved Hygiene

By removing the foreskin, circumcision simplifies genital hygiene, making it easier to maintain cleanliness and potentially reducing the risk of irritation or build-up of harmful bacteria.

When Circumcision Is Not Recommended

In certain cases, circumcision may not be advisable due to specific health or anatomical considerations.

Anatomical Conditions

Certain physical conditions, such as hypospadias (where the opening of the urethra is not at the tip of the penis), may require the foreskin for future corrective procedures. In these cases, circumcision is typically postponed or avoided.

Health Concerns

Individuals with bleeding disorders or other health conditions that increase surgical risks may need to explore alternative management options.

Prematurity or Health Instability

Circumcision may not be advisable for premature infants or babies with existing health issues until they are medically stable.

The Circumcision Procedure

Pre-operative Considerations

Before the procedure, the doctor will explain the process, including the benefits and potential risks, and obtain informed consent. A health assessment may be conducted, and anaesthesia options will be discussed based on the patient’s age, health status, and personal preferences. In many cases, circumcision can be scheduled as a same-day procedure for convenience.

Surgical Techniques

For Newborns: Circumcision in newborns typically uses methods such as the Gomco clamp, Plastibell device, or Mogen clamp. These techniques are designed to minimise bleeding and promote faster healing.
For Older Children and Adults: Circumcision for older children and adults may involve traditional surgical excision or minimally invasive devices such as the Shang Ring or the stapler method, offering a quick and efficient procedure with minimal discomfort and a shorter recovery time.

Procedure Steps

The procedure starts with sterilising the surgical area to reduce infection risk, followed by administering anaesthesia to ensure comfort. Once numb, the chosen surgical technique is used to remove the foreskin. Bleeding is controlled throughout, and the wound is closed with sutures or supportive devices as needed to aid in healing.

Post-operative Care

After the procedure, the patient is monitored for any immediate signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding or swelling. Proper wound care includes keeping the area clean, applying protective ointments, and using appropriate pain relief methods to manage discomfort.

Are your symptoms affecting your quality of life?
Consult our MOH-accredited specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan today.

Make an Enquiry

Recovery and Follow-Up

The recovery timeline varies: infants generally heal within 5 to 10 days, while older children and adults may take a few weeks. Minimally invasive techniques, such as the Shang Ring or the stapler method, may lead to quicker recovery.

During recovery, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, and older individuals should refrain from sexual activity until the surgical site is fully healed. Follow-up visits may be recommended to ensure proper healing and address any questions or concerns.

Potential Risks and Complications

Circumcision is generally considered a safe procedure, but there are some risks. These include common issues like minor bleeding, swelling, or infection, which are usually managed with standard medical care. Rare complications, such as injury to the glans or excessive removal of skin, are uncommon but may require prompt medical attention.

Make An Enquiry

Got Questions? Please fill in the enquiry form below and we look forward to addressing your question.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is circumcision painful?

With appropriate anaesthesia, pain is minimised during the procedure, making it generally well-tolerated. For recovery, pain management options, such as oral pain relievers, are available to help manage any discomfort.

What age is best for circumcision?

Circumcision is often simpler and heals faster in newborns, but the procedure can be performed at any age. For older children and adults, doctors may use specialised techniques to minimise discomfort and ensure proper healing.

How soon can regular activities be resumed after circumcision?

Children and adults should avoid strenuous physical activities for a few weeks. Adults are generally advised to wait until the surgical site has healed fully before resuming sexual activity, usually after 4 to 6 weeks or as recommended by the doctor.