Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the skin at the tip of the penis, or the foreskin. The foreskin contains nerves, blood vessels and muscles to protect the rounded tip of the penis. When a boy is first born, the foreskin is stuck to the penis. At this point, the parents of the child might choose circumcision.
How is Circumcision Done?
Circumcision is a short procedure that takes anywhere from five to fifteen minutes. During the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied, the foreskin is detached from the head of the penis and the excess foreskin is clipped off. Vaseline is placed on the wound before it’s wrapped for healing. Though complications are rare, bleeding, infection and removal of too much foreskin are potential risks.
To decrease the risk of infection, the circumcised penis must be cleaned with soap and water each time a diaper is soiled.
Can Someone Be Circumcised Later in Life?
Men of all ages can be circumcised. Adult circumcision takes approximately an hour and is performed under general or local anesthesia. The patient will be given pain medication and there will be very little pain, if any, after the procedure. Recovery from adult circumcision takes five to seven days and men will be able to return to full sexual activity after the procedure.
Are There Benefits of Circumcision?
There has been medical evidence that circumcision provides the following benefits:
- A reduced risk of STDs in men
- A reduced risk of prostate cancer – A recent study found that men who are circumcised are 14 percent less likely to get prostate cancer.
- Lower risk of urinary tract infections
- Lower risk of your sexual partner getting cervical cancer or other infections.
Contact our office if you’re interested in learning more about circumcision.