Adult Circumcision & Foreskin Surgery

Adult circumcision is a procedure that removes the foreskin covering the head of the penis. The skin is usually closed with dissolvable stitches. The glans remains exposed after surgery.

Not always. Some patients benefit from topical medication or a selected foreskin-preserving procedure. Circumcision may be recommended when significant scarring is present or symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment.

Phimosis is tightness of the foreskin that prevents comfortable retraction over the glans. In adults, it may be associated with scarring, inflammation or skin disease.

Sometimes. Prescription corticosteroid treatment can help selected cases, particularly where inflammation contributes to tightness. Significant established scarring may respond less well. Treatment should follow examination and diagnosis.

Balanitis is inflammation of the glans, while phimosis describes a tight foreskin. These conditions may occur together, but they are not the same. Management depends on the cause.

Circumcision can provide significant improvement when lichen sclerosus affects the foreskin. However, disease involving the glans, urinary opening or urethra may persist and require further treatment.

Balanitis xerotica obliterans, or BXO, is a historical term often used for male genital lichen sclerosus. The condition can cause white patches, inflammation and scarring.

Sometimes. Frenuloplasty or preputioplasty may be options for selected conditions. Significant lichen sclerosus or advanced foreskin scarring can make complete circumcision more appropriate.

Frenuloplasty is an operation to release or lengthen a short or tight frenulum beneath the glans. It may help when frenulum tightness is the main problem, without removing the entire foreskin.

Preputioplasty is a procedure designed to widen a tight foreskin opening while keeping the foreskin. It is not suitable for every patient, especially when extensive scarring is present.

Anaesthesia is provided during surgery. Some pain, swelling and sensitivity are expected afterwards. Pain relief and wound care instructions are provided at discharge.

Not always. Adult circumcision may be performed using general, local or another suitable anaesthetic technique. The decision depends on the operation, clinical circumstances and facility arrangements.

An uncomplicated adult circumcision commonly takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. More complex anatomy or additional procedures may increase operating time. Anaesthesia and recovery require additional time.

Adult circumcision is usually performed as day surgery. Most patients return home on the day of their operation, subject to recovery and anaesthetic requirements.

Yes. Dissolvable stitches are commonly used. They generally break down over several weeks, sometimes taking two to six weeks. Do not pull them out yourself.

Healing commonly takes four to six weeks, although some wounds take longer. Swelling and scar maturation may continue for several months.

Yes. Swelling and bruising around the incision are common during early recovery. Rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain or signs of infection require review.

The glans is no longer covered by the foreskin and may initially feel very sensitive against clothing. This generally becomes less troublesome during the following weeks.

Circumcision does not usually prevent normal erections. However, erections may temporarily stretch the healing wound and cause discomfort. Report severe pain or wound separation.

Circumcision permanently removes the foreskin, so the sensation and movement of penile skin can change. Some men notice differences during sexual activity. Individual results cannot be predicted or guaranteed.

Circumcision does not ordinarily alter sperm production or the ability to ejaculate. It is not a fertility treatment or contraceptive operation.

Avoid intercourse and masturbation for at least four weeks and until the wound is fully healed. Many patients require approximately four to six weeks or longer. Follow your surgeon's instructions.

Many people allow approximately one week off after adult circumcision. Light work may be possible earlier for some patients, while physically demanding work can require longer recovery.

Gentle walking may be resumed as comfortable. Cycling, running, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise may need to be avoided for at least two weeks or longer depending on healing. Follow postoperative advice.

Small wound separations can sometimes heal with appropriate wound care, but significant opening or bleeding needs prompt assessment. Do not attempt to close the wound yourself.

Sometimes. Revision circumcision may be considered for problems such as residual foreskin, significant scarring or other complications. Previous surgery can make the procedure more complex.

Not necessarily. A buried or concealed penis requires careful assessment because circumcision alone may not correct the underlying problem and can sometimes complicate reconstruction.

Tissue may be sent for pathology, particularly when lichen sclerosus, abnormal skin changes or a suspicious lesion is present. Your surgeon will explain the plan.

Circumcision may address certain chronic foreskin conditions associated with increased cancer risk, but it does not eliminate the possibility of penile cancer. Persistent ulcers, growths or abnormal lesions still need assessment.

A lesion that persists, bleeds, ulcerates or changes should be examined. A biopsy or another procedure may be required to establish the diagnosis. Do not assume it is simply inflammation.

Bring your GP referral, current medication list, relevant previous treatment details and any pathology or operation reports. Photos of intermittent skin symptoms may be helpful if the changes are not present during examination.