Circumcision

Circumcision Procedure

We understand circumcision surgery can be a stressful time for patients. At The Urology Partnership our whole team take care to support you and ensure your comfort at every step of the procedure.

Before surgery

Prior to the circumcision you’re seen in our private clinic by a consultant urologist. During this consultation they’ll take a detailed medical history and perform a pre-surgery examination. You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms and raise any questions about the procedure.

One of the questions often asked is whether circumcision is painful. Using local anaesthetic to numb the area is, in most cases, effective in ensuring your comfort during surgery. But your consultant will talk you through this and answer any concerns you might have.

During the consultation your treatment options will be discussed, including non-surgical options. We’ll also provide you with information leaflets, consent forms and give you time to consider your choices.

On the day of the surgery

Your operation will be an hour long appointment performed in a dedicated private clinic.

Ahead of the surgery we ensure the consent process is complete and post-operative written information is provided with contact numbers.

You’re then taken to the outpatient theatre.

At the start of circumcision surgery local anaesthetic is given by the surgeon. This is similar to having an injection at the dentist and involves 3 injections to the base of the penis (delivered in less than 1 minute).

The penis is usually numb within 5 minutes and your surgeon will assess sensation prior to starting the circumcision procedure.  More local anaesthetic can be added during the operation if discomfort is felt.

In the very rare occasion (1 in 150 cases) the local anaesthetic block doesn’t work, the operation will be rescheduled under general anaesthetic on another day.

Once satisfied the penis is numb, your surgeon will undertake the procedure of detaching the foreskin.

This involves removing the foreskin just behind the head of the penis using a scalpel or surgical scissors. Then stitching together the remaining skin edges with dissolvable stitches.

Once removed, the foreskin is sent for histological review (examination under a microscope).

The whole surgery typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.

This is followed by resting time in the waiting area with a pressure bandage applied, until you feel ready to return home. We recommend you arrange for someone to collect you after the procedure as you’ll not feel up to driving.

The pressure bandage is removed at home 2 to 3 hours later.

Post surgery

Before going home you’ll be given a date for a post-operative review with your consultant. This is usually 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure.

You’ll also be provided with any information on caring for the area and your recovery at home.

Recovering from circumcision

After surgery it’s normal for your penis to feel sore and look swollen and bruised. It can take at least 10 days for your penis to heal after circumcision, though full recovery and the ability to resume normal activities may take up to 2-3 weeks.

In general:

• It can take up to six weeks for the penis to return to its final cosmetic appearance.
• You may experience increased sensitivity of the head of your penis which can last for up to two weeks.
• The exposed glans may dry out and scab over; but applying a little petroleum jelly will help this and can also help decrease the sensitivity after the operation.
• Some swelling, pain and discomfort is likely for at least one week after your operation. You should be able to manage this with painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol.
• If there are any signs of an infection such as a temperature, increased redness, bleeding, purulent discharge or persistent pain, you should contact your GP or your Consultant.
• Some discomfort while passing urine is to be expected after circumcision and taking painkillers will help with this. But if the pain worsens or you find it hard to urinate you should contact your GP or your Consultant.

Managing your recovery at home

You should rest for 24 hours following surgery. But then it’s important to gradually increase your activity levels to avoid the possibility of blood clots.

It’s also advisable that you:

• Take at least 1 week off work to recover.
• Drive only once you feel fit and able.
• Avoid sexual activity for at least 4 to 6 weeks after your operation (until the wound has healed).
• Wear light loose-fitting clothes for a few days after surgery, to help avoid irritating the area.
• Shower as normal but avoid soaking in the bath and using scented products.
• After showering allow the penis to dry naturally, then apply Vaseline to the head of the penis and wound unless given an antibiotic cream instead

We understand that patients may feel worried and concerned about potential complications or risks associated with circumcision surgery. Our consultants at The Urology Partnership are experts in this procedure and will thoroughly discuss it with you during your consultation to ensure all your questions are answered.

Private circumcision at The Urology Partnership

If you are considering private circumcision at our Reading clinic, please contact us to discuss details, costs, and to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced urology consultants.

At The Urology Partnership we understand the importance of timely and expert urological care. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing you with excellent, patient-centred service, using the latest treatments and technology.

Circumcision FAQs