Find Doctors for Circumcision (foreskin removal surgery)

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.

Dr. Dilip Raja - Urology in

Dr. Dilip Raja

MBBS, MNAMS - Urology, DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery, MS - General Surgery, FICS

Urology

Dr. Dilip Raja is a practicing Urologist and Andrologist for more than 35 years at Mumbai, India. He is a gold medalist and recipient of various scholarships during his under and post-graduate training. • Extensively trained in microsurgery at St. Peter’s Hospital, Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium and for reconstructive Urology, Andrology, Uro-Oncology, Impotence and Incontinence at Mayo Clinic USA and Australia. • Certified as Robotic Surgeon on da Vinci Surgical System in May 2016 at US:Intuitive Surgical Headquarters, Sunnyvale, California, USA. • Pioneer in India for the treatment of Kidney Stone disease by Extra-Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) therapy. • He has large experience in treating stone patients like percutaneous lithotripsy (PCNL), RIRS and ureterorenoscopy (URS) as a complete management of stone disease. • He is also one of the first few Urologist and Andrologist to start newer technologies like Electro vaporization of the Prostate, Penile Implants, Microsurgery in Urology etc. • Visiting Urologist and Andrologist at Dubai, UAE and licensed Urologist and Andrologist under the auspicious Dubai Health Authorities since 2007. • Invited as Guest Speaker and consducted workshops and charitable camps in East Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mauritius and Seychelles under the auspicious of Ministry of Health of respective countries. • Presented many papers at national and international conferences and delivered many guest lectures nationally and internationally. • Dr. Dilip Raja has his clinic at Dr. Raja’s Urology & Andrology Centre, Bandra. At present, he is a Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist at Lilavati Hospital, Wockhardt Hospital, and Saifee Hospital & Breach Candy Hospital. Dr. Dilip Raja is member of Urology Society Of India, Mumbai Urology Society, American Urology Association, Endourology Society, Societe Internationale D’urologie, Aging, Gender, Andrology & Sexual (sciences) Society of India (AGASSI), International Society For Sexual Medicine (ISSM), Andrology Society Of India, National Academy Of Medical Sciences, India, and almost all prestigious international urology & andrology societies in the world

Sagar Fortune 404, Waterfield Road, Opp National College, Nxt to China gate restaurant, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, 400050

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 3 Awards
  • 3000
  • Dr. Raja Urology & Andrology Centre + 3 more clinics
Clinic Consult
Dr. Gaurav Priyadarshan - General Surgeon in

Dr. Gaurav Priyadarshan

General, laparoscopic,Laser Surgeon

General Surgeon

Dr Gaurav Priyadarshan is an esteemed General and Advanced laparoscopic Surgeon in Kolkata, bringing over a decade of invaluable experience to his practice at Fortis Hospital. Renowned as one of the top Surgeons in the region, Dr. Priyadarshan specializes in treating a diverse range of surgical diseases. With a strong focus on personalized care, Dr. Priyadarshan offers comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, aiming to promote best outcomes for patient. His expertise spans various surgical areas, including Gall bladder stones, Appendix, Complex Hernias,Bariatric surgeries, Colorectal cancers, Laser Proctology and endocrine Surgeries

730, EM bypass ,Anandapur, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, 700107

  • Kolkata, West Bengal
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 4 Awards
  • 700 - 800
  • Fortis Hospital, Anandapur + 2 more clinics
Clinic Consult Video Consult
Dr. Durai Ravi - Surgery in

Dr. Durai Ravi

Senior Consultant General , Advanced Laparoscopic ,Laser & Robotic surgeon

Surgery

Colorectal Surgery

Gastroenterology

Dr Durai Ravi is a well known surgeon with an experience of 14 years. He is specialised in General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Minimal Access, Endoscopy , Laser & Robotic surgery. He is practicing as a surgeon since 2015. He had been awarded various fellowships in the field of minimal access & laparoscopic surgery

Sathyadev avenue, Sathyadev avenue, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, 600028

  • Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 5 Awards
  • 500 - 1000
  • Apollo Spectra Hospitals + 3 more clinics
Clinic Consult Video Consult
Dr. Sivagamasundari Angamuthu - General Surgeon in

Dr. Sivagamasundari Angamuthu

MBBS, DNB (General Surgery), FIAGES Consultant General, Laparoscopic & Laser Surgeon

General Surgeon

Podiatry

Dr. Sivagamasundari Angamuthu is a highly skilled Consultant General Surgeon with 18 years of extensive clinical experience, including 11 years as an independent surgeon. She completed her MBBS followed by DNB in General Surgery and FIAGES, reflecting advanced training in laparoscopic surgery. Her expertise includes elective and emergency procedures, laser proctology for anorectal conditions, endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins, hernia repairs, breast-related disorders, and gastrointestinal surgeries. Known for precision and ethical practice, she delivers patient-centered surgical excellence

VARA 420 SWAGATH NAGAR, Vattiyoorkavu, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, 695013

  • Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 300
  • Dr. Siva's Clinic
Video Consult
Dr. Aditya Kumar Sharma - Urology in

Dr. Aditya Kumar Sharma

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology, Fellowship in Laparoscopy

Urology

Excellent command over Endourological procedures for prostate (TURP/ Laser Prostate Surgery HOLEP), Kidney stone (URS/ Flexible URS-RIRS/ PCNL/ Mini-PCNL) and reconstructive urological procedures (Pyeloplasty/ Urethroplasty/ bladder augmentation etc.). 6 Years experience in renal transplantation and Robotic Urology surgeries. Throughout gold medalist, have received multiple awards and fellowships (national & international) with multiple research publications and presentations at national and international forums. He has received training in Robot-assisted Uro-oncology and renal transplantation procedures at International centers of repute and practiced these surgeries for many years in reputed Super specialty hospitals in New Delhi in both government and a private sector. For advanced best in class Urology care. Key hole laparoscopic surgery. Laser surgery for stone. Male Infertility Treatment. Male Sexual Dysfunction. Female urine Incontinence Treatment. Male Urine Incontinence. Laser Surgery for Prostate. Laparoscopic Kidney cancer Surgery. Kidney dysfunction. Bladder Problems. Urethral Stricture. Robotic Urology Surgery. Keyhole Surgery. PCNL surgery for stone. RIRS surgery for stone. Endoscopic treatment for Urethral stricture. Bladder cancer and prostate cancer Treatment. Premature Orgasm. Erectile Dysfunction. Low Sperm count. Urine Tract Infection. Blood in Urine. flank pain. kidney stone. ureteric stone. Testis cancer. Varicocele. Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal. Penile Implant. Cystocele. For advanced best in class Urology care. Key hole laparoscopic surgery. Laser surgery for stone. Male Infertility Treatment. Male Sexual Dysfunction. Female urine Incontinence Treatment. Male Urine Incontinence. Laser Surgery for Prostate. Laparoscopic Kidney cancer Surgery. Kidney dysfunction. Bladder Problems. Urethral Stricture. Robotic Urology Surgery. Keyhole Surgery. PCNL surgery for stone. RIRS surgery for stone. Endoscopic treatment for Urethral stricture. Bladder cancer and prostate cancer Treatment. Premature Orgasm. Erectile Dysfunction. Low Sperm count. Urine Tract Infection. Blood in Urine. flank pain. kidney stone. ureteric stone. Testis cancer. Varicocele. Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal. Penile Implant. Cystocele

Viraj Khand Gomti Nagar, Former Sahara Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, 226010

  • Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 11 Awards
  • 700
  • Max Super Speciality Hospital Lucknow
Clinic Consult
Dr. Sadhana Deo - General Surgeon in

Dr. Sadhana Deo

MBBS, MS - General Surgery

General Surgeon

Dr. Deo Sadhana is general & laparoscopic surgeon practicing in Pune since 1992. Her consulting is at Dr. Deo’s Clinic, strictly with an appointment. She is available for patients from Karvenagar, Kothrud, Sinhgad Road, Karve Road, Deccan, Warje, Erandwane, Shivajinagar. As clinic is in the heart of the city. She also available at Sanjeevan and Sahyadri Hospitals, Karve Road with an appointment. Her areas of special interest are inguinal, incisional, umbilical hernias, piles, fissures, fistulas, pilonidal sinus, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancers, per rectal bleeding, thyroid, varicose veins, diabetic foot, skin lesions, skin cancers, lipomas, sebaceous cyst, colorectal surgery, peptic ulcers, heartburn, circumcision, auroplasty, laparoscopic surgery like gallbladder removal, appendicectomy, hysterectomy, anorectal pain, abscesses, breast cancer, breast lump, fibroadenoma, penile cancers, oral cancers, submandibular gland and parotid tumors. All operations of male and female patients at affordable costs and examination of female patients by lady surgeon is our main idea. She is most experienced versatile leading general & breast oncosurgeon who has established a track record in different surgeries like hernias, piles, fissures, fistulas, benign and breast cancer diseases. According to female patients, she is the best cosmetic and breast surgeon and making the patients comfortable & self explanatory words. She gives adequate time to each & every patients till they are satisfied completely. Male patients are also equally welcome and treated at low cost for above-mentioned diseases. Dr. Deo is among the few proctologists in Pune and probably one of the leading female surgeon, in a field that is witnessing a steep rise in the number of patients owing to faulty lifestyles. She has gained expertise in surgery for piles, fistula and fissure surgery caused by chronic constipation. In fact, her mastery lies in the way she manages wound care in cases of fistula, a predicament even for the most experienced surgeons. Dr. Deo’s extensive knowledge in anorectal diseases enables her to treat every disease with a holistic approach. Her gentle and reassuring approach puts a patient’s worries to rest. In a world moving towards gender equality, Dr. Sadhana Deo stands out as a woman venturing into a specialty largely dominated by male surgeons

43/67, Navasahyadri Society, Akshay, Karvenagar, Sonchafa Path, Opposite Anurekha society board lane / Sudant dental clinic, Pune, Pune, Maharashtra, India, 411052

  • Pune, Maharashtra
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 4 Awards
  • 1000
  • Dr. Deo's Clinic
Clinic Consult
Dr. Ritesh Dhanbhar - Surgery in

Dr. Ritesh Dhanbhar

Dr Ritesh Dhanbhar

Surgery

Gastroenterology

Colorectal Surgery

I am experience surgeon . I have experience of 6 years in surgical field. I have done more than 400 surgeries . I have expertise in Laparoscopic ( Durbin) Surgery also. I have done many abdominal surgeries. I have also done many neck surgeries

Popatkhed Road, Akot, Akot, Maharashtra, India, 444101

  • Akot, Maharashtra
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 200
  • Lokhande Hospital
Clinic Consult
Dr. Parag Shah - Surgery in

Dr. Parag Shah

MBBS, MS - General Surgery

Surgery

Neptune Diagnostics, RB Mehta Marg, Saibaba Nagar, Pant Nagar, Ghatkopar East, Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 1 Award
  • Practo Care Surgeries + 1 more clinic
Dr. Nitin A Jain - Gastroenterology in

Dr. Nitin A Jain

DNB - Surgical Gastroenterology, MS - General Surgery, DNB - General Surgery, MBBS

Gastroenterology

Gastro Surgery Clinic, 9, Ground Floor XL plaza, GHP Excel Tower, IIT Market, Mumbai, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 2 Awards
  • Practo Care Surgeries + 4 more clinics
Dr. Aditi Agrawal - Surgery in

Dr. Aditi Agrawal

MBBS, MS - General Surgery

Surgery

Siddhivinayak Eye & Skin Clinic, 303, Vini Elegance, 3rd Floor, L.T. Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 1 Award
  • Practo Care Surgeries + 9 more clinics

Frequently Asked Questions

Circumcision is used to remove the foreskin of the penis. It is done for medical reasons, like tight foreskin or infections, or for cultural/religious reasons.

No. Anesthesia (numbing medicine) is used so you or your child does not feel pain during the procedure. Some mild discomfort afterwards is normal and can be managed with medicines.

The surgery usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the method and age of the patient.

Most people heal in about 1–2 weeks. Swelling and mild discomfort may last a few days, and full healing may take a few weeks.

Many techniques use dissolving stitches that disappear on their own. If non-dissolving stitches are used, they are removed at a follow-up visit.

Yes. Circumcision can be done safely in newborns, children, and adults. The type of anesthesia may vary by age.

Keep the area clean, avoid vigorous activity, take pain medicines as advised, and attend follow-up visits.

Yes, but serious complications are rare. Possible risks include infection, bleeding, and slow wound healing. Your doctor will guide you on care to reduce risks.