What is a Circumcision?
A circumcision is a simple operation which involves the removal
of the foreskin, a sleeve of skin which covers the delicate
end of the penis. This operation is usually performed on a
child and often for religious or cultural reasons.
Other reasons for circumcision include:
- A non-retractile foreskin where you are unable to pull back the
forskin despite advice and treatment from your doctor.
- Pain during sex - this is often caused by a ticght or
non-retractile foreskin
- Persistent infections ofthe foreskin
- An abnormal urinary tract with persistent urinary
infections.
What does this involve?
Circumcision is normally carried out under general anaesthetic
and usually takes around 30 minutes. If it is performed on a
small baby, local anaesthetic may be used.
During the procedure the narrow sleeve of the foreskin will be
trimmed away and remaining skin edges are stitched together,
usually with dissolvable stitches that do not need to be removed
afterwards.
The operation is a simple one and usually you can take your
child home the same or next day.
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When will I recover?
After the operation it is likely that some discomfort will be
felt as the wound heals and the penis can look sore and bruised.
This can be relieved using mild painkillers such as paracetamol or
ibuprofen and should subside as the area heals.
The wound will be covered with a moist dressing, which can
usually be removed the next day. A child will need around ten
days or so to recover before he can return to school and around one
month before he can engage in any sports.
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What risks should I know about?
Circumcision is a routinely performed operation and extremely
safe. There is a small possibility that too much or not
enough foreskin is removed or that some cosmetic problems may
occur. There is also a 10% possibility of a narrowing of the
opening of the urethra caused by injury during the circumcision or
inflammation afterwards which leads to difficulty passing
urnine. A further operation may be required.
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Circle care
We have a team of highly experienced surgeons who are experts in
this procedure and will look after you or your child throughout the
whole process. You can be sure of state of the art facilities
and the best possible care at all Circle facilities.
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