Adult circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis. While often performed for religious or cultural reasons in infancy, some adults choose circumcision for medical, personal, or aesthetic reasons. If you’re considering adult circumcision, understanding the benefits, surgical methods, and aftercare is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Benefits of Adult Circumcision
Circumcision offers several potential benefits, including medical benefits, improved hygiene, and depending on personal preference, aesthetics.
Medical Benefits
- Reduced Risk of Infections: Removing the foreskin can lower the likelihood of bacterial infections and conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans).
- Lower STI Risk: Studies suggest circumcision reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and HPV.
- Decreased Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Although UTIs are less common in men, circumcision can further lower the risk.
- Prevention of Phimosis and Paraphimosis: These conditions, where the foreskin becomes too tight, can cause pain and difficulty with hygiene. Circumcision can both prevent and resolve these issues.
- Reduced Risk of Penile Cancer: Though rare, studies indicate circumcision may decrease the risk.
Hygienic Benefits
Without a foreskin, it’s easier to clean the genital area, reducing the buildup of smegma, a natural secretion that can contribute to infections and odour.
Personal and Aesthetic Reasons
Some men prefer the appearance of a circumcised penis. Partners may also have preferences regarding circumcision.
Methods of Adult Circumcision
Several techniques are used for adult circumcision. The choice of method depends on the surgeon’s expertise and the patient’s needs.
Shang Ring Method:
This method involves placing a plastic device called a Shang Ring around the foreskin. The Shang Ring is tightened to cut off blood flow to the foreskin, which removes the foreskin. You will need to return in 1 week to have the Shang Ring removed. The complete healing of the wound will take 6-8 weeks.
The Shang Ring method has the lowest risk of complications, produces the good cosmetic outcomes and is completed in 10 minutes.
ZSR Stapler Method
The ZSR Stapler method has the fastest and easiest recovery period, and patients report good aesthetic outcomes. Staples are expected to fall off within 3 weeks. However, residual staples can remain lodged requiring manual removal.
Stitches Method
This is the conventional method of circumcision for males of all ages. While recovery from the stitches method is faster than the Shang Ring method, this procedure has a higher risk of complications. The procedure is completed in 30 minutes, and it takes up to 4 weeks for the stitches to fall off.
Each method has advantages and potential drawbacks, so discussing options with your adult circumcision doctor is essential.
Preparing for the Procedure
If you’ve decided to undergo adult circumcision, proper preparation ensures a smooth process.
- Medical Consultation: A doctor will evaluate your health, discuss your goals, and explain risks.
- Pre-Surgery Instructions: Your doctor may advise you on things to do pre-surgery, including avoiding blood-thinning medications such as aspirin for a few days.
- Hygiene: Thoroughly clean the genital area before surgery. You will not be able to take a shower for 48 hours after the surgery so showering pre-operation is advised.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from adult circumcision generally takes a few weeks. Proper aftercare helps minimise discomfort and prevent complications.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
Mild pain and swelling are common but manageable with prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen.
Applying ice packs that are wrapped in a cloth for short intervals can help reduce swelling.
Hygiene and Wound Care
You may shower after 48 hours but keep the wound dry. The dressing must remain in place for a minimum of 1 week, and you should keep the wound and dressing dry during this period. Ensure you wear clean well-fitted underwear, and that the penis is upright to minimise swelling.
Activity Restrictions
After the operation, you will need to rest at home for 2 days. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or sports for at least 2–4 weeks. Abstain from sexual activity (including masturbation) for about 4–6 weeks to allow proper healing.
Recognising Potential Complications
Although complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of warning signs:
- Excessive bleeding or swelling
- Persistent pain that doesn’t improve
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, fever)
- Difficulty urinating
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Long-Term Outlook
Most men recover fully without complications and experience the expected benefits of circumcision. Some men report increased sexual confidence, while others notice no significant difference in sensation or function. If performed for medical reasons, circumcision can resolve prior issues like chronic infections or phimosis.
Adult circumcision is a personal decision that can have medical, hygienic, and aesthetic benefits. Understanding the procedure, choosing the right surgical method, and following proper aftercare ensures a smooth experience and optimal recovery. If you’re considering circumcision, contact us today to discuss your options and make an informed decision.
