Foreskin Injury: Healing Time and Care Tips

Q: Foreskin Injury: Healing Time and Care Tips

Hello： 1. It is unlikely to heal on its own; medical attention is necessary. 2. There is an 80-90% chance that it will progressively narrow. 3. Due to the narrowing caused by the injury to the foreskin, any attempt to retract it may lead to further tearing, re

Phimosis with a foreskin injury that cannot be retracted?

Hello Doctor, I usually do not expose the glans when not erect, but it can be fully exposed when erect.
One day while showering, I suddenly felt intense itching on the glans, so I scratched it, which resulted in two or three small cuts on the foreskin.
A week later, I noticed that I could not fully retract the foreskin when erect (which I could do before the injury).
When I forced it back, it caused four more cuts to appear.
This is my first experience with this issue.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
How long does it typically take for such injuries to heal naturally so that I can retract the foreskin without pain during an erection, as I did before? 2.
After the wounds heal, will there definitely be a problem with phimosis? 3.
If phimosis occurs, should I wait until the wounds have healed (as per question one) before attempting to retract the foreskin during showers to gradually loosen it? 4.
Is it necessary to apply ointment to the wounds? 5.
While waiting for the injury to heal, should I avoid manipulating the foreskin entirely, or should I occasionally retract it a little to prevent it from becoming narrow? Thank you, Doctor.

Joe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/14

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1.
It is unlikely to heal on its own; medical attention is necessary.
2.
There is an 80-90% chance that it will progressively narrow.
3.
Due to the narrowing caused by the injury to the foreskin, any attempt to retract it may lead to further tearing, resulting in a worsening condition.
4.
Topical ointments can somewhat reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.
5.
It is difficult to avoid manipulating the foreskin since debris can accumulate on its inner surface; poor hygiene can worsen the situation, leading to infection.
Occasionally retracting it to prevent narrowing is advisable, but care must be taken to avoid tearing; if tearing occurs again, it may lead to a vicious cycle of scarring and further narrowing.

Reply Date: 2017/09/14

More Info

When it comes to foreskin injuries, proper care and understanding of the healing process are crucial for a full recovery. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced minor lacerations on the foreskin, which can lead to discomfort and complications if not managed correctly. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your questions:
1. Healing Time: Generally, minor cuts or abrasions on the foreskin can take about 1 to 2 weeks to heal, depending on the severity of the injury and how well you care for it. During this time, it is essential to avoid any activities that could aggravate the injury, such as vigorous cleaning or sexual activity. If you notice that the pain persists or worsens, or if you see signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Risk of Phimosis: Phimosis, or the inability to retract the foreskin, can occur after an injury if scar tissue forms as the wound heals. However, this is not guaranteed. Proper care during the healing process can help minimize the risk. If you find that the foreskin remains tight after healing, you may need to consult a doctor for further evaluation.

3. Managing Tightness: If you experience tightness after the injury has healed, it is generally recommended to wait until the wounds are fully healed before attempting to retract the foreskin regularly. This allows the tissue to recover without additional stress. Once healed, gentle retraction during bathing may help maintain elasticity, but it should be done carefully to avoid reopening any wounds.

4. Use of Ointments: Applying a topical antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) can be beneficial in preventing infection and promoting healing, especially if the wounds are open. However, avoid using ointments that contain steroids or other irritating substances. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding the use of ointments.

5. Handling the Foreskin During Healing: It is generally best to avoid manipulating the foreskin during the healing process to prevent further injury. Once the wounds have healed, you can begin to gently retract the foreskin during bathing to ensure it does not become too tight. If you experience pain while doing this, stop and consult a healthcare professional.

Additional Care Tips:
- Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene by gently washing the area with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing, which can irritate the skin.

- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from products that may irritate the area, such as scented soaps or lotions.

- Monitor for Infection: Keep an eye on the healing process. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort during the healing process.

In conclusion, while foreskin injuries can be concerning, with proper care and attention, most minor injuries heal well without long-term complications. If you have any doubts or if the situation does not improve, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.

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