In different religions, cultures, and areas of the world, male infants are circumcised at a young age, typically when they are still newborns or very young babies. When done at a young age, removing the foreskin from the penis is a relatively simple procedure and typically takes less than 10 minutes.
With male infants, the process is completed with a specialized clipper, usually with the application of a topical anesthetic cream. The area where the foreskin is removed is treated with antibacterial cream and loosely covered with gauze to prevent infection. Typically, full healing is complete in a week to a week and a half.
Adult male circumcision is more complicated, but it is not an uncommon procedure. It is sometimes completed due to a medical condition called phimosis, where the foreskin is actually too tight, discomfort during erections or when there is an attempt to retract the foreskin.
What to Expect
During the procedure, which the doctor should explain to you in the consultation meeting, the foreskin is removed using one of several different surgical techniques. The two sides of the removed area of skin are then stitched together to allow for healing. This is typically done using dissolving stitches that will disappear over time.
Typically, men can go home after adult male circumcision with no hospital stay required. The area may be sensitive to moderately uncomfortable, but over-the-counter pain medications are usually all that is needed to manage any pain.
The penis should have a dressing, which needs to be replaced as recommended by the doctor. Ice packs can be used for a day or two to help reduce any swelling. For most men, it takes about two to three weeks after adult male circumcision for the swelling to completely subside. Most men return to work in a few days, but it is important to follow all doctor’s instructions about after surgery care.
