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Adult Circumcision: What Happens During the Procedure

Adult circumcision procedures are often undertaken for medical reasons. The surgery can treat conditions such as phimosis, paraphimosis, recurrent balanitis and balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO).  

Phimosis happens when the foreskin cannot pull back over the penis. This results in uncomfortable tightness and can lead to inflammation, painful sexual experience and painful cracks in the penile foreskin.  

Paraphimosis is a urologic emergency which occurs when the foreskin becomes trapped behind the corona of the glans penis. It can lead to strangulation of the glans and painful vascular compromise. Paraphimosis is likely to recur, which is why an adult circumcision procedure is recommended for treatment.  

Balanitis occurs when the head of the penis is inflamed and swollen due to irritation or infection. BXO is a progressive disease which has an association with penile cancer. For phimosis, paraphimosis, balanitis and BXO, adult circumcision procedures are proven to be a solution. 

Having an adult circumcision procedure can prevent these conditions from occurring, and prevents smegma, which is a buildup of oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. The accumulation of this under the foreskin can lead to balanitis.  

The risk of contracting herpes, human papillomavirus, and syphilis is lower in people who have undergone circumcision procedures. The risk of contracting HIV during vaginal sex is also 60 per cent lower in heterosexual men. This has been proven via multiple scientific studies globally.  

Although it is a simple surgery, it’s normal to be apprehensive about undergoing an adult circumcision procedure. That’s why we’ve put together an article to take you through what happens before, during, and after the surgery. The surgery will vary depending on the method your doctor uses. You can book a consultation with your clinic to learn more. 

Before your adult circumcision procedure 

Choosing a clinic with an experienced doctor can give you peace of mind during your surgery. While researching, be sure to consider the methods the doctor uses, the reputation of the clinic, and the services offered such as aftercare. 

Having a consultation is important as your doctor can run you through the process of your adult circumcision procedure, and any aftercare requirements you may have. During a consultation, you can also gauge the experience and bedside manner of your doctor and decide whether it’s a good fit for you.  

During your adult circumcision procedure  

The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes less than 10 minutes. How your adult circumcision procedure is performed depends on the method your doctor uses. Different clinics often use different methods, so it’s a good idea to research into clinics which offer the method you wish to be used.  

Conventional circumcision  

In the conventional method, your doctor will use a scalpel to remove the foreskin. An incision will be made around the base of the foreskin, and it will be removed. The remaining skin will be stitched together with dissolvable stitches.  

Laser circumcision  

Laser circumcision is a relatively new method where a laser is used to remove your foreskin. There is less blood loss in this method as the laser cauterises the tissue as it cuts. This can be less painful than the conventional method.  

Shang Ring 

The Shang Ring method is the simplest method. The Shang Ring refers to a disposable device with two rings: an inner ring with a silicone band, and an outer hinged ring. Your doctor will place your foreskin between the two rings, and the Shang Ring is then tightened to stop blood flow to the foreskin.  

Through this process, your foreskin will be removed. You will have to return to your doctor in a week’s time to remove the Shang Ring. People often opt for this method as no sutures are required. The Shang Ring method is proven to have less blood loss, lower risk of complications, and less operation pain. Patients also report more satisfaction with the resulting cosmetic appearance.  

At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we use the Shang Ring method for your adult circumcision procedure due to the lower risk of complications. The Shang Ring method has lower intraoperative blood loss and the lowest risk of infection, at a rate of less than 1%.  

Our patients report satisfaction with this method including cosmetic appearance, ease of the operation, and minimal pain, which is why we have chosen to use it for our surgeries. Our main operating doctor, Dr. Shehab Abdalla, performs over 900 surgeries per year. 

After your adult circumcision procedure   

It is normal to feel some pain or discomfort after your surgery. This can usually be managed with painkillers.  

You should avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weightlifting or aerobic exercise for 2 weeks after your procedure or until your doctor gives you the okay. You can return to work and normal activities such as driving when you are comfortable doing so. 

If any complications such as infection should arise, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, we offer a 24-hour aftercare hotline so you can reach us quickly in the case of any issues.   

Choosing a clinic with an aftercare hotline post-operation can be comforting, as you know that if anything happens, you can reach out and be provided with care.  

Choose Circumcision Vasectomy Australia for adult circumcision procedure 

At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia, our doctors are experienced in performing adult circumcision procedures. We make your experience easy, safe, and comfortable. Book a consultation now to learn more and schedule your surgery.