Phimosis: When Is Circumcision Necessary?

Q: Phimosis: When Is Circumcision Necessary?

Hello： If it occurs frequently, surgery may be necessary. <br>If it has only happened once and there are no issues with the foreskin getting stuck during an erection, just pay attention to cleanliness and dryness. <br>Thank you for your inquiry.

Prepuce issues

Hello Dr.
Du, I asked you about my swollen foreskin on December 10.
Last week, on December 17, I visited the same surgical hospital and saw a different doctor.
He said it was due to poor lymphatic circulation and advised me to pull the foreskin forward to cover the glans.
However, he mentioned that if this happens frequently, I should consider a circumcision.
I asked the doctor why it suddenly swelled, and he suggested it might be because I was sleeping too deeply.
In the past, even when my foreskin was behind the glans, I had never experienced swelling (no sexual activity, no DIY after surgery).
Is it really necessary for me to undergo circumcision?

DaDa, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If it occurs frequently, surgery may be necessary.
If it has only happened once and there are no issues with the foreskin getting stuck during an erection, just pay attention to cleanliness and dryness.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/12/20

More Info

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). This can lead to various complications, including pain, inflammation, and difficulty with hygiene. In your case, it seems that you have experienced swelling of the foreskin, which your doctor attributed to poor lymphatic circulation. This can sometimes occur due to irritation, infection, or other underlying issues.

When considering whether circumcision is necessary, several factors come into play:
1. Severity of Symptoms: If you are experiencing recurrent swelling, pain, or difficulty retracting the foreskin, this may indicate that the condition is significant enough to warrant surgical intervention. If the swelling is a one-time occurrence and resolves with conservative treatment, circumcision may not be necessary.

2. Frequency of Recurrence: As your doctor mentioned, if the swelling or phimosis occurs frequently, it may be a sign that the foreskin is not functioning properly. In such cases, circumcision can provide a permanent solution and prevent future episodes.

3. Hygiene Issues: Phimosis can make it difficult to maintain proper hygiene, leading to an increased risk of infections. If you find it challenging to clean the area adequately, circumcision may be recommended to facilitate better hygiene.

4. Underlying Conditions: Sometimes, phimosis can be associated with other medical conditions, such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or recurrent urinary tract infections. If these conditions are present, circumcision may be advised as part of the treatment plan.

5. Age and Development: In younger individuals, phimosis is often a normal condition that resolves on its own as the child grows. However, in adults, persistent phimosis is less common and may require surgical intervention.

6. Patient Preference: Ultimately, the decision to proceed with circumcision should also consider your personal preferences and comfort level. If you are concerned about the condition and its implications, discussing your feelings with your healthcare provider can help guide the decision-making process.

In summary, circumcision may be necessary if you are experiencing recurrent symptoms, hygiene difficulties, or if there are underlying conditions that could be addressed through surgery. It is essential to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, concerns, and the potential benefits and risks of circumcision. They can provide you with tailored advice based on your specific situation and help you make an informed decision regarding your health.

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