Circumcision

What is Circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the glans (head) of the penis.

Why Do Men Get Circumcised?

Circumcision serves several purposes, primarily exposing the glans of the penis. Initially practiced as a religious rite, circumcision is now performed for a variety of reasons, including religious, medical & cultural purposes.

Is Circumcision Healthier?

The health implications of circumcision can vary. While there are benefits and drawbacks, major medical organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest that parents should be informed about the procedure. Both organizations recognize that the benefits often outweigh the risks, yet they leave the final decision to the parents. If you have concerns, consult your child’s healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Preparing for Circumcision

For new-borns undergoing circumcision in a hospital, healthcare providers will generally numb the area with an anaesthetic (either a topical cream or an injection) and may recommend administering acetaminophen for pain relief.

For older children and adults, a thorough health history review and physical examination will take place. It’s important to disclose any medications (prescription or over-the-counter) and allergies.

Who Performs Circumcision?

Circumcision may be performed by a variety of qualified professionals in a hospital setting, including:

• Urologists: Specialists in urinary and reproductive health.
• General Surgeons.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Once anaesthesia is administered, the healthcare provider will:

• Place the patient on their back.
• Clean the penis and carefully separate the foreskin from the glans.
• Remove the foreskin using a scalpel.

New-born circumcision usually does not require sutures. For older children and adults, the procedure is similar, but the provider may use dissolvable stitches or cauterization to control bleeding and minimize scarring.

Circumcision Techniques

There are three primary techniques used for circumcision:

• Conventional method.
• Laser/Stapler Circumcision.
• Plastibell Device: Now obsolete.

Duration of the Procedure

A typical circumcision lasts about 20 minutes. Circumcision may take slightly longer for older children and adults than for infants.

Pain Management

While circumcision can cause discomfort, the use of pain medications and anaesthetics significantly alleviates pain during and after the procedure.

Post-Circumcision Care

Most patients do not require extensive aftercare following a circumcision. It is essential to keep the area clean and dry to promote healing.

Risks and Complications

While circumcision is generally safe, some potential risks include:

• Anesthesia complications
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain
• Incorrect foreskin length after removal
• Meatal stenosis (narrowing of the urethral opening)

In rare cases, complications like penile adhesion may require surgical revision.

Dr. Mohit Agrawal is a highly skilled surgeon with extensive experience in performing circumcision for patients of all ages. With a focus on patient comfort and safety, Dr. Agrawal utilizes the latest techniques to ensure a smooth and effective procedure. He understands that the decision to circumcise can be a significant one for families and is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. If you’re considering circumcision for your child or yourself, Dr. Agrawal is here to guide you through the process, addressing any concerns you may have and ensuring the best possible outcomes. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the benefits of circumcision and how Dr. Agrawal can assist you.