Circumcision
Circumcision Methods
Circumcision Vasectomy Australia
What is a circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the penile foreskin, the thin fold of skin covering the tip of the penis. This practice has cultural, religious, and medical significance worldwide. While often performed for religious reasons, circumcision is also considered for medical reasons, such as treating conditions like phimosis or balanitis xerotica obliterans.
The procedure is typically conducted in a sterile medical setting, ensuring safety and minimal discomfort for the individual. It’s essential to note that circumcision is a personal choice, and individuals may opt for it based on cultural, religious, or medical reasons.
One of the notable benefits of circumcision is a potential reduction in the risk of certain infections and inflammatory conditions. Studies suggest it may lower the chances of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and penile cancer. Additionally, some individuals choose circumcision for aesthetic or personal reasons, aligning with their preferences and values.
It’s important to consult with your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and considerations specific to an individual’s circumstances. While circumcision offers various advantages, it’s crucial to weigh these against any potential risks or complications that may arise. Ultimately, the decision to undergo circumcision should be made with careful consideration of one’s beliefs, values, and health considerations.
At Circumcision Vasectomy Australia we offer 4 methods of circumcision.
1. Gomco
2. Plastibell
3. Shang Ring
4. Stitches (conventional method)
Methods of circumcision
Gomco method
The Gomco method is known for its safety and efficacy. During the procedure, a specially designed clamp called the Gomco clamp is employed. This clamp secures the foreskin, allowing for precise and controlled removal.
One of the key advantages of the Gomco method is its established track record of safety and low complication rates. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions by a trained doctor, ensuring a high standard of care. Additionally, the Gomco method generally results in less post-operative discomfort and a quicker healing process compared to some other techniques. It is designed for boys less than 2 months of age and is completed in 10 minutes.
After the procedure, it’s important to follow post-operative care instructions provided by your your doctor. It’s normal to experience some mild swelling, but this typically subsides within a few days.
Ultimately, choosing the Gomco method for circumcision is a decision that should be made in consultation with your doctor, who can provide personalised advice based on individual circumstances.
Methods of circumcision
Plastibell method
The Plastibell method is a common and safe technique for circumcision. It involves the use of a small, disposable device known as a Plastibell. This device is placed over the glans (head) of the penis, and a suture is tied around it, allowing for controlled removal of the foreskin.
One of the main advantages of the Plastibell method is its minimally invasive nature, which often leads to less bleeding and a quicker healing process. The Plastibell typically falls off in 7-10 days. It is designed for boys up to 4 years of age.
After the circumcision, it’s important to follow any post-operative care instructions provided by your doctor. This may include keeping the area clean and applying any recommended ointments. While mild swelling is normal, it should gradually subside when the Plastibell falls off.
Choosing the Plastibell method should be a decision made in consultation with your doctor, who can offer personalised advice based on your specific circumstances and preferences.
Methods of circumcision
Shang Ring method
The Shang Ring method is an innovative and minimally invasive technique for circumcision. It utilizes a specialised medical device, the Shang Ring, which is designed to facilitate a precise and controlled removal of the foreskin. The procedure is known for its efficiency.
One of the primary advantages of the Shang Ring method is its rapid application, typically taking 10 minutes to complete. The Shang Ring is applied without the need for sutures, resulting in less post-operative discomfort. It is designed for males greater than 4 years of age and has the best cosmetic outcomes.
After the procedure, patients may receive specific post-operative care instructions from their doctor. This may include keeping the area clean and applying any recommended ointments. While swelling is common, it should gradually subside.
Choosing the Shang Ring method should be a decision made in consultation with your doctor, who can provide tailored advice based on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Methods of circumcision
Stitches method
The stitches method, also known as the conventional or sutures method, is a longstanding and widely used technique for circumcision. This procedure involves making incisions to remove the foreskin, followed by suturing (stitching) the wound closed. It is performed under sterile conditions by trained doctors.
This method can be performed on males of all ages. It takes 20 minutes to complete and has the highest risk of complications. One advantage of the stitches method is it has a faster recover time than the Shang Ring by up to 2 weeks.
After the procedure, patients will receive specific post-operative care instructions from their doctor. This may include keeping the area clean, applying any recommended ointments, and avoiding strenuous activities for a specified period. While swelling or discomfort is normal, it should gradually subside.
Choosing the stitches method should be a decision made in consultation with your doctor, who can offer personalised advice based on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Still have questions?
Frequently asked questions
What is male circumcision?
Male circumcision is the removal of excess skin that covers the head of the penis. It is estimated that three billion males are circumcised globally. Male circumcision is performed for three main reasons: medical, religious and as a preventative health measure.
Who should have male circumcision?
This is a very personal question and can only be answered by an individual. The decision should be made by the man who is having the circumcision or the parent of the child. The decision should be based on evidence based information, personal preference, religious and cultural beliefs.
What is the best age to have a circumcision?
This is a very personal question. Generally the younger the child the lower the risk of complications.
However, it is perfectly reasonable to elect to have your son circumcised at an older age.
What do I bring on the day of circumcision?
For a young child:
- Blanket
- x2 Nappy
- Dummy or pacifier
- Bottle of milk if the child is not breastfed
- Vaseline
For an older child/teenager/adult:
- Vaseline
- Nummit cream
Will my son or I feel any pain?
We complete our circumcisions with a dorsal penile nerve block. This essentially puts the pain nerve fibres to sleep for 1 hour ensuring you/your son feel no pain during the circumcision.
You/your son will experience minimal discomfort when we inject the penile nerve fibres with local aneasthetic.
How do I care for the wound?
Care for the wound is simple. Our doctors will run you through aftercare after you/your son’s circumcision.
In addition to this, we provide all our patients access to our 24 hour hotline to address any concerns they have about their son’s circumcision.
How long does a circumcision procedure take?
The consultation takes 10 minutes.
The circumcision procedure takes 10 minutes.
We will keep you an additional 10 minutes post circumcision to ensure you/your child are happy & comfortable.
In total expect to be with us at least 30 minutes.
Do I need a referral?
No referral required.
