A tight banjo string...
What is a frenulectomy or frenuloplasty?
Penile frenuloplasty, also known as frenulotomy or frenulectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or reconstruction of the frenulum of the penis, which is a small band of tissue that connects the foreskin to the underside of the glans penis.
The frenulum can be too tight or short, causing pain during sexual intercourse or difficulty with foreskin retraction.
Frenulectomy & Frenuloplasty
How does it work?
We complete penile frenuloplasty predominantly for adults.
- The penis is cleaned to ensure the operating site is germ free.
- Local anaesthetic is injected at the base of the penis. This is to ensure the nerve that supplies the sensation of pain to the penis is turned off.
- The foreskin is retracted and the penis is inspected for any abnormalities.
- A tunnel is made underneath the frenulum.
- Two sutures are tied to ensure minimal bleeding.
- The frenulum is cut using diathermy. This also minimises bleeding.
- Sutures are used to align the skin together. The sutures are absorbable and fall off within 7-14 days.
- A dressing is applied.
Frenulectomy & Frenuloplasty
Anaesthesia use
General anaesthesia and local anaesthesia are two different approaches to numbing or sedating a person before a medical procedure. They serve different purposes and are chosen based on the type of procedure, the patient’s health status, and the preferences of the medical team and the patient.
It’s important to note that the decision to use general anesthesia or local anesthesia is made by the medical team in collaboration with the patient, considering the nature of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. The goal is to provide the safest and most comfortable experience for the patient while ensuring the successful completion of the procedure.
Frenulectomy & Frenuloplasty
Preparing for the procedure
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Pre-operation
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Post-operation
Pre-op preparation
Please ensure you apply the anaesthetic cream at least 30-60 minutes before your procedure. Make sure the penis is wrapped with cling wrap after applying the anesthetic cream. For a detailed video on how to do this, please watch this video.
If the circumcision is for yourself, please make sure you are cleanly shaven. Pubic hair increases the risk of infection.
In addition to this, please bring with you:
- Petroleum jelly (Vaseline).
- Smart phone to distract you during the procedure.
Aftercare
Within 24 hours of the operation:
- If you have a dressing, you can remove this in 24 hours. It is best to remove the dressing in the shower.
- You may shower in 24 hours.
- Always keep the surgical site clean.
In the following weeks:
- Your stitches will fall off in 7-14 days.
- Do not lift anything heavy for 4 weeks.
- Do not have sex for 4 weeks.
- Bleeding is rare. If there is a blood stain on your dressing, this is ok. If your dressing is wet with blood, please call us immediately.
- If you develop increased pain, swelling or redness, please contact our clinic. We expect you to have increased swelling over the first 3 days.
A review appointment after 4 weeks of the surgery or anytime that you are concerned is important.
If you are concerned, always call or leave a text message for our doctor on call to get in touch with you.
Still have questions?
Frequently asked questions
What is penile frenuloplasty or frenulectomy?
Penile frenuloplasty and frenulectomy are surgical procedures that involve the removal or modification of the penile frenulum, a small band of tissue that connects the underside of the penis to the glans (head) of the penis. These procedures are typically performed to address issues related to the tightness or shortness of the frenulum, which can cause discomfort or complications during sexual activity.
Who should have frenuloplasty or frenulectomy?
Frenuloplasty or frenulectomy may be considered for individuals who experience discomfort, pain, or limitations during sexual activity due to the tightness or shortness of the penile frenulum. These procedures aim to address these issues and improve overall sexual comfort and function.
What do I bring on the day of my frenuloplasty or frenulectomy?
Vaseline and Nummit cream.
When can I return back to work or school?
You can return to work or school as early as one day after the procedure. If you work from home on a computer and have the circumcision done under local anaesthetic, you can even resume work on the same day.
Will I feel any pain during my frenuloplasty or frenulectomy?
We complete our frenuloplasty/frenulectomy with a dorsal penile nerve block. This essentially puts the pain nerve fibers to sleep for up to 12 hours ensuring you/ feel no pain during frenuloplasty/frenulectomy.
How do I care for the wound?
Care for the wound is simple. Our doctors will run you through aftercare after your frenuloplasty/frenulectomy.
In addition to this, we provide all our patients access to our 24 hour hotline to address any concerns you may have about your frenuloplasty/frenulectomy.
How long does a frenuloplasty/frenulctomy procedure take?
The consultation takes 10 minutes.
The frenuloplasty/frenulectomy procedure takes 10 minutes.
We will keep you an additional 10 minutes post frenuloplasty/frenulectomy to ensure you are happy and comfortable.
In total expect to be with us at least 30 minutes.
Do I need a referral?
No referral required.
