WHAT IS CIRCUMCISION?

A man may choose circumcision for various medical, personal, and cultural reasons. Some may have the procedure to address specific health conditions.

Medical conditions that can lead men to choose circumcision include:

1. Phimosis. A condition where the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis. In severe cases, phimosis can trap urine under the foreskin, leading to:
   • penis infections
   • inflammation
   • recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
2. Paraphimosis. Paraphimosis occurs when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the head of the penis and cannot return to its normal position. This can cut off blood flow to the penis, requiring urgent medical intervention.
3. Balanitis. Balanitis is pain and swelling due to chronic inflammation of the foreskin. It can be caused by infections or poor hygiene.
4. Genital wart removal. Circumcision may be performed to remove warts on the foreskin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
5. Lichen sclerosus. This rare skin condition can cause scarring on the foreskin. Similar to phimosis, it can cause discomfort, infections, and urinary complications.

Additionally, men may opt for circumcision for hygiene, faith practices, or personal comfort.

• Men who can’t retract their foreskin for cleaning may choose circumcision. It can help them improve hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.
• Men who were not circumcised as infants may choose to have the procedure later in life. They may prefer to adhere to cultural or religious traditions as adults.
• Circumcision can make sexual activity more comfortable. This is especially true if a man has phimosis, which can cause pain during intercourse.

Most adult circumcision procedures are performed using local anesthesia. You are awake, but the area is numbed. In some cases, regional or general anesthesia may be used. It depends on the person’s preferences and the surgeon’s advice.

The procedure is typically done as an outpatient procedure. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, and you can go home the same day. The circumcision is performed in the following steps:

1. The penis and surrounding area are thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic to prevent infection.
2. The foreskin is gently separated or pulled back to expose the head of the penis.
3. There are three standard circumcision techniques. They vary slightly, but each aims to remove the foreskin with minimal pain and bleeding.
   • Gomco clamp. A special clamp separates the foreskin and protects the head of the penis. Then, a scalpel removes the foreskin. It also helps control bleeding.
   • Mogen clamp. In this technique, a clamp is used to expose the head of the penis, and the foreskin is then removed with a scalpel.
   • Plastibell device. A plastic ring is placed under the foreskin and tied off with a string. The foreskin is cut, and the ring remains for about a week before falling off on its own.

After the foreskin is removed, your doctor may use dissolvable stitches to stop bleeding and help reduce scarring during the healing process. These stitches will disappear on their own as the wound heals.

Recovery generally takes two to three weeks, though each person’s experience may vary.

You may experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Ice packs can also reduce swelling.

You will want to wash the area gently with warm water, but avoid using soap on the incision for the first few days. Drying the area carefully and avoiding tight clothing is necessary to prevent irritation.

You’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and sex, including masturbation, until your doctor clears you. This is to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Like any surgery, circumcision carries some risks, but they are generally low and can be minimized with proper care. Possible complications include:

• Infection at the incision site.
• Minor bleeding.
• Changes in sensitivity or scarring after the procedure. However, most men report no significant changes to sexual function or sensation.
• Mild reactions to anesthesia, such as dizziness or nausea

If you have discomfort, infections, or concerns related to your foreskin, it’s time to see a urologist. They can discuss the pros and cons of circumcision for you.

Am I too old for circumcision?

No, there is no age limit. Men of all ages can undergo the procedure if it’s medically indicated or chosen for personal reasons.

Will circumcision affect my sexual function?

Most men do not experience changes in sexual function after circumcision. Some may feel more sensitive after the foreskin’s removal. However, studies show no long-term effects on sexual pleasure or performance.

How long does recovery take?

You can expect to recover within about three weeks. During this time, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions, avoid sexual activity, and refrain from strenuous activities to ensure proper healing.