Circumcision

This document will give you information about a circumcision. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

What is a Circumcision?

During the adult circumcision procedure, the foreskin, a flap of skin that covers the end of the penis, is surgically removed. There are a number of medical and non-medical reasons why an individual may take the decision to have a circumcision. For some the treatment is deemed suitable if they are suffering from conditions such as phimosis, recurrent balanitis or frequent infections; for others, it is carried out for cultural or religious reasons.

At New Victoria Hospital our nationally-acclaimed Consultant Urologists are experts in carrying out adult circumcision surgery. Supported by a multidisciplinary Urology team, they will also ensure you enjoy the highest standard of care throughout your stay at our hospital.

Medical Reasons for a Circumcision

While many choose to have a circumcision on cultural or religious grounds, there are a number of medical reasons why a circumcision may be advised for an individual.

Adult circumcisions are often recommended for the following medical conditions:

Tightening of the foreskin (phimosis) - where the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis (glans).
Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) - an uncommon condition where the foreskin becomes thickened and white, making it difficult to pull back.
The foreskin is painful during sex.
Infections of the foreskin that keep coming back despite good hygiene and treatment with antibiotics.
Cancer of the penis - where a red patch, wart-like growth or ulcer appears on the end of the penis or under the foreskin.

Are There Any Alternatives to a Circumcision?

If BXO is suspected, a circumcision is the only dependable way to cure the condition. For other conditions, a dorsal slit operation or a preputioplasty may be recommended

What Does the Operation Involve?

The adult circumcision procedure is usually performed under a general anaesthetic but various anaesthetic techniques are possible. The operation usually takes about 30 minutes. Your surgeon will remove the foreskin and seal off any small blood vessels. They will then stitch the two edges of skin together.

What Complications Can Happen?

As with an operation, there are a number of complications associated with the adult circumcision procedure. Before making the decision it is therefore important that you are aware of these potential complications.

General surgical complications include:

Pain
Bleeding
Infection of the surgical site (wound)
Unsightly scarring of your skin

Complications specific to a circumcision include:

Not enough foreskin is removed
Too much foreskin is removed
Difficulty passing urine
Developing an ulcer at the tip of your penis
Narrowing of the opening of your urethra
Damage to your urethra
Reduced pleasure from sex
Injury to the end of your penis

Following Surgery

Once you have had a circumcision you should be able to go home that same day or the next day.

What is the Adult Circumcision Recovery Time?

It is likely your penis will look swollen and bruised, and may even feel sore for the first week. It is therefore imperiateive you do not have sex for at least 3 weeks. You should be able to return to work after a week or 10 days. Taking part in regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. However, before you start exercising, it is important to ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.