Circumcision: Age, Reasons, Procedure, and Consequences

What is Circumcision?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the layer of skin covering the glans penis. This ritual practice is commonly observed in various African tribes and among followers of certain religions such as Judaism and Islam. While often religiously motivated, circumcision can also be performed for medical reasons to address specific health issues.

Why is Circumcision Performed?

To ensure good health, circumcision may be recommended to treat phimosis (foreskin tightness) or prevent diseases such as infections of the glans. However, it can also be performed for religious or cultural reasons to symbolize a specific identity. Circumcision is prevalent among Muslims and Jews, as well as in the United States, parts of Southeast Asia, and Africa. Practiced for hygiene reasons, it improves intimate hygiene by preventing urine leakage and stagnation of smegma (secretion and desquamating matter) between the foreskin and the glans.

When is it Necessary?

Circumcision is necessary and prescribed by a doctor mainly in the following cases:

• Phimosis is characterized by the inability of the foreskin to retract over the glans;
• Chronic urinary tract infections, affecting parts of the urinary system such as the urethra, bladder, and kidneys, can be treated with circumcision. This practice is particularly effective in children under two years of age, as it significantly reduces the frequency of these infections;
• Conditions such as balanitis (glans infection) and balanoposthitis (glans and foreskin infection) can occur. Moisture under the foreskin can promote the growth of microorganisms and cause infections, especially with poor hygiene. The usual treatment for these conditions is local antibiotics and antifungals. Circumcision may be considered for recurrent infections, but recently, the effectiveness of certain medications has made this procedure less essential;

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Circumcision: How is the Surgical Procedure Performed?

Circumcision is a commonly performed day surgery procedure, under local anesthesia with mild sedation, by infiltrating the base of the penis. It can be performed using a surgical laser or an electric scalpel, as well as with a traditional cold-knife scalpel. Don't be intimidated by the apparent complexity of the surgical technique: once anesthesia is administered and disinfection procedures are completed, the surgeon will gently lift the foreskin to make a circular incision at the coronal sulcus. Then, he will suture the edges of the wound with absorbable stitches that will dissolve on their own in 7 to 10 days. In this way, the glans will remain partially or totally uncovered. Finally, a semi-compressive dressing will be applied. After being collected, the tissue sample can be submitted for histopathological examination. The postoperative recovery process is generally quick and produces satisfactory aesthetic results.

Does it Hurt to be Circumcised?

Adult circumcision is not a painful procedure. While some discomfort may be felt in the first few days, it can be effectively managed using over-the-counter analgesics.

As with any surgical procedure, circumcision can also lead to potential complications, such as:

• Infection and wound dehiscence;
• Suture bleeding;
• Glans hematoma;
• Edema and impaired healing;
• Postoperative pain (generally well-tolerated);
• Pain from tissue traction during erection, even months after the operation;

Although complications are rare, adult male circumcision is considered a safe surgical procedure.

How Long Does it Take to Fully Heal?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin, the skin that covers the glans penis when not erect. After the operation, a scar usually forms and causes pronounced swelling in the circumferential region under the edge of the glans. This phenomenon is caused by bullous edema and is perfectly normal since the action of the laser or scalpel subjects the delicate skin of the penis to considerable trauma. As this area is particularly sensitive and rich in nerve endings, it is quite normal for the scar ring to swell and remain in this state for at least a week or two. It is obvious that after a circumcision, you will feel pain caused not only by the swelling, but also by the stitches. You will need to adjust the dressing several times a day with special products and change it regularly, until the wound begins to close and heal.

How Long Does it Take to Heal After Circumcision?

Many people wonder about the healing time after adult circumcision. Circumcision surgery involves a recovery period that varies depending on the case. Some people can return to their routine after only a month, while for others it can take up to two months, especially regarding sexual activity. It is always recommended to consult a doctor before resuming any sexual activity after a circumcision. To ensure that the healing and scarring process proceeds smoothly and that the scar closes properly, it is crucial to avoid mistakes. To begin, it is essential to abstain from any physical exertion in the first few days following the circumcision. Ideally, it is recommended not to walk at all during the healing period, or at least to limit the distances covered, as the fresh wound may bleed and be more painful if you exercise.

Furthermore, by staying at home, you limit any risk of accidental impact on the wound area. It is crucial to remember to rigorously follow the daily care prescribed by the doctor to avoid any errors. Neglecting these dressings could lead to an infection, which would be particularly serious. Therefore, it is essential to avoid at all costs trying to remove the stitches yourself. Only the doctor is authorized to remove them if they do not come off naturally. Doing it yourself would seriously risk reopening the wound. Another suggestion concerns resuming sporting activity: for this too, as for sexual activity, it is advisable to have the doctor's agreement to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

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