Circumcision
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the skin covering the tip of the penis. it cut off part of the too-tight foreskin so that the glans of the penis can be exposed. The operation in an adult usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes and can be performed as a day surgery. No hospitalization is required.
Preparation
Methods of Circumcision
Circumcision is predominantly performed surgically. In addition to the traditional circumcision method, our centre also offers a non-suturing technique using a circumcision stapler to accommodate different patient needs. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages; therefore, consultation with a physician is recommended before making a decision.
Traditional Circumcision
The standard surgical method involves disinfecting the foreskin and exposing the glans to remove smegma. The foreskin is then pulled out, clamped to the desired length, and the excess foreskin is excised. The glans is pushed out, and bleeding is carefully managed using an electric knife before suturing. A protective medical adhesive is applied to the wound, and the entire process typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. There may be slight bleeding during the procedure, noticeable swelling afterward.
Wound Size: In traditional circumcision, the entire excess foreskin is removed, resulting in a relatively large wound with a circular incision around the penis.
Recovery Time:
Pain and Discomfort: Some pain and discomfort may occur post-surgery, requiring several days to weeks for recovery.
Healing Period: Generally, about 1 to 2 weeks are needed for the wound to heal and for patients to return to normal activities.
Sexual Activity Restrictions: It is advisable to avoid sexual activity and other vigorous activities for several weeks.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Traditional circumcision is generally suitable for various patient conditions, offering flexibility. The surgeon can adjust the cutting angle and length as needed, providing better control and adaptability.
Cons: Though the surgery is safe, it carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and healing complications. There may be temporary pain and discomfort, and the cut surface may sometimes appear uneven, leading to an aesthetically unpleasing outcome or post-operative swelling.
Stapler Circumcision
Using a circumcision stapler allows for the removal of the foreskin in sizes tailored to the individual’s anatomy. This method can excise the foreskin in one motion and uses staples to close the wound, significantly shortening the surgery time to approximately 5 to 15 minutes. This technique can also reduce pain and bleeding, and post-operative care is typically simpler, with recovery usually occurring within about a week. The staples will typically fall off by themselves after approximately three weeks. However, because single-use circumcision stapler instruments are required, the overall cost of the procedure is relatively higher.
Recovery Time:
Pain and Discomfort: Some pain and discomfort may occur after the procedure, generally resolving within a few days to a week.
Healing Period: Typically, about 1 to 2 weeks are needed for wound healing and for patients to return to their normal activities.
Sexual Activity Restrictions: It is advisable to avoid sexual activity and other vigorous activities for several weeks.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: The circumcision stapler minimizes surgery time and bleeding compared to traditional surgeries. The simultaneous cutting and suturing process is completed with the press of a button, taking about 5 to 15 minutes and resulting in minimal bleeding and reduced pain and recovery time.
Cons: This method necessitates the use of disposable circumcision staplers, making it more expensive than traditional circumcision. Additionally, non-suturing circumcision may not be suitable for all cases; for some individuals, traditional circumcision may be a more appropriate option, so the suitability of using the circumcision stapler should be assessed by a physician.
Preparation
Patients should adhere to fasting instructions; typically, a fasting period of 6 hours is required prior to surgery. This entails no food for 6 hours before the procedure, although a small amount of plain water may be consumed until 2 hours prior.
Patients should take any pre-operative medications as directed.
If you are taking medications that affect blood coagulation, such as Aspirin, Warfarin, Xarelto, Pradaxa, or herbal medicines, please notify your physician as soon as possible.
The physician will explain the reasons for the procedure, the process involved, and any potential complications. Upon understanding the information provided, the patient may proceed to sign the consent form.
Wound Care
After urination, cleanse the area with clean water and gently dry with a tissue.
It is imperative to keep the wound dry at all times.
In the event of slight bleeding, apply direct pressure to the affected site.
Showering is permitted.
Mild swelling of the wound and surrounding tissue may occur and is expected to persist for at least one week; this is a normal response.
Follow-up and recovery
Following surgery, you may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, or localized inflammation at the intravenous (IV) site. These symptoms are typically self-limiting and will resolve within a few days. Pain relief medication may be taken as needed, and it is advisable to rest following the procedure.
Patients should refrain from eating until the effects of anesthesia and sedatives have worn off to prevent choking.
On the day of surgery, it is essential to avoid alcohol, operating heavy machinery, or driving to minimize the risk of accidents. Patients should also refrain from signing any legal documents for 24 hours post-surgery.
Patients may leave the facility once the effects of anesthesia have diminished, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
If you experience pain, swelling, bleeding, signs of infection, or any other unusual symptoms at the wound site, please contact your doctor immediately.
References
Mayo Clinic. Tests and Procedures. Circumcision. Available at : https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/circumcision/about/pac-20393550
Cleveland Clinic. Procedures. Circumcision. Available at : https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/circumcisio