Why Is Circumcision Performed?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin, the loose fold of skin covering the tip of the penis, is removed. It is one of the most common and oldest surgical procedures in the world. Circumcision is often done for religious or cultural reasons, but it is also recommended for medical reasons, such as recurrent infections, phimosis (tight foreskin that cannot be pulled back), or other problems that affect hygiene and comfort.
In babies, the procedure is usually quick and done with local anesthesia to reduce pain. In older children and adults, the surgery is done under anesthesia suited to age and health. After circumcision, the penis is easier to keep clean, and many people report fewer infections and irritation.
Purpose & Benefits of Circumcision
● Improves hygiene by removing the foreskin
● Reduces the risk of infections under the foreskin
● Helps treat phimosis (tight foreskin)
● May reduce the chance of urinary infections in infants
● Can reduce the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections
● May lower the risk of penile cancer (rare)
Who May Need Circumcision?
● Babies soon after birth (elective or cultural)
● Boys with phimosis (inability to retract foreskin)
● People with repeated foreskin infections (balanitis)
● Individuals with foreskin tears or pain
● Adults seeking circumcision for personal or medical reasons
Types of Circumcision
1. Traditional Surgical Circumcision
This is the standard method where the surgeon uses a scalpel or surgical scissors to remove the foreskin and then stitches the edges for proper healing.
2. Sleeve Technique Circumcision
A controlled dome-shaped section of skin is removed in one piece. This method helps ensure a smooth edge and a good cosmetic result.
3. Plast bell Circumcision
Commonly used in infants. A small plastic ring (Plast bell) is placed under the foreskin, the foreskin is tied over it, and the ring falls off naturally in a few days.
4. Clamp Techniques (Gomo, Mogen)
Devices like the Gomo clamp or Mogen clamp are used to protect the tip of the penis while allowing the surgeon to remove the foreskin safely. These are often used for babies and young boys.
Your doctor will choose the best method based on age, health, and preference.
Circumcision Procedure: Step-by-Step
Before the Procedure:
1. The doctor examines the penis and checks your or your child’s health history.
2. Tests may be done if needed, especially in adults.
3. Instructions on fasting (for older children and adults) or anesthesia are given.
During the Procedure:
1. Anesthesia:
Babies receive local anesthesia or topical numbing medicine.
Older children and adults may have local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on age and comfort.
2. Preparing the Area:
The genital area is cleaned with antiseptic to lower the risk of infection.
3. Removal of Foreskin:
The surgeon carefully removes the foreskin using the chosen method (surgical cut, clamp, or device).
4. Closing:
The edge of the skin is stitched (if needed) with dissolving stitches. A sterile dressing or bandage is applied.
The procedure usually takes 10–30 minutes, depending on the technique and age. Most patients go home the same day.
Recovery & Aftercare
Initial Healing:
● The day after surgery, you may see mild swelling, redness, or bruising, this is normal.
● Any dressing should be kept clean and dry as advised.
Pain Management:
● Pain medicines recommended by the doctor help ease discomfort.
Cleaning:
● Gently clean the area with warm water and pat dry.
● Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing until the area heals.
Activity:
● Babies and young children should avoid vigorous activity for a few days.
● Adults should avoid heavy exercise and sexual activity until fully healed.
Stitches:
● Most stitches dissolve on their own in a few days to weeks.
● If non-dissolving stitches were used, your doctor will remove them at a follow-up visit.
Timeline:
● Most healing occurs within 7–14 days.
● Complete healing may take a few weeks.
Call your doctor if you see heavy bleeding, pus, severe pain, fever, or difficulty urinating — these may be signs of a complication.
Risks & Possible Complications
Circumcision is generally safe, but there can be some risks, such as:
● Pain or discomfort after surgery
● Infection at the surgical site
● Bleeding or slow healing
● Excess skin removal or uneven edges
● Rare injury to the head of the penis
Your doctor will explain how to reduce risks and what signs to watch for during recovery.
Circumcision vs Foreskin Stretching/Non-Surgical Options
Circumcision:
● Permanently removes the foreskin
● Long-lasting solution for phimosis or recurrent infections
● Requires surgical care and recovery
Non-Surgical Options (such as stretching):
● In some mild cases, gentle stretching and steroid creams may help loosen a tight foreskin
● Works best in mild phimosis
● May not be effective for all patients
Your doctor will help decide whether surgery or non-surgical methods are right for your situation.