Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort in the Foreskin Area: What to Do?

Q: Post-Surgery Pain and Discomfort in the Foreskin Area: What to Do?

Hello： I have never encountered issues with pain outside of the wound area, so I may need to consult another physician. <br>I apologize.

Burning and stabbing pain in the foreskin?

Hello Doctor: I previously asked about issues related to circumcision and vasectomy surgeries.
Following your advice, I returned to the surgeon for a follow-up.
After examining me, he confirmed that the wound was fine and that I did not need any medication or ointment.
I explained all my symptoms and conditions to him, yet he still advised me to soak in water and rest more.
My concern is with the circumcision wound, specifically at the left side of the suture line.
Although the suture area is painful, the discomfort is more pronounced about one centimeter below the suture line.
Any contact with that area, whether from underwear, gauze, or my hand, causes a burning sensation and sharp pain.
Even when showering, just letting warm water touch that area results in significant burning and pain.
Cold water does not affect it, and the painful area is less than a three-centimeter radius.
What should I do? Should I come to see you? This has been bothering me for two weeks.
My diet is light, hygiene is normal, no masturbation, no sexual activity, no prolonged sitting, and no exercise.
Should I continue to wait for recovery?

A Qiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: I have never encountered issues with pain outside of the wound area, so I may need to consult another physician.
I apologize.

Reply Date: 2019/07/17

More Info

Post-surgery pain and discomfort in the foreskin area can be quite distressing, especially when it persists for an extended period. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing localized pain and a burning sensation around the surgical site, particularly near the stitches. This type of discomfort can be attributed to several factors, including nerve irritation, inflammation, or sensitivity in the area post-surgery.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that surgical procedures, especially those involving delicate areas like the foreskin, can lead to various sensations during the healing process. The pain you are experiencing may be due to nerve endings that are still healing or becoming re-sensitized after the surgery. This is not uncommon, and many patients report similar sensations in the weeks following such procedures.

Here are some recommendations to help alleviate your discomfort:
1. Follow-Up Consultation: Since you have already consulted your surgeon and they have indicated that the wound appears to be healing well, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another urologist or a specialist in post-operative care. They may provide additional insights or treatment options that your current surgeon may not have considered.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help manage your pain. However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it is safe for you, especially if you are on other medications.

3. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Ensure that the compress is not applied directly to the skin; instead, wrap it in a cloth to avoid frostbite.

4. Gentle Hygiene Practices: Continue to maintain proper hygiene in the area, but be gentle. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area too vigorously, as this can exacerbate irritation. Instead, use mild soap and lukewarm water.

5. Avoid Irritants: Since you mentioned that contact with clothing or even water can cause discomfort, consider wearing loose-fitting underwear and clothing to minimize friction. You might also want to avoid any activities that could irritate the area, such as vigorous exercise or sexual activity, until you feel more comfortable.

6. Hydration and Diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support your overall healing process. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and zinc, can aid in tissue repair.

7. Patience and Time: Healing can take time, and it is essential to be patient with your body. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

8. Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be beneficial, especially if there is any underlying tension or muscle tightness contributing to your discomfort. A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to help alleviate pain.

In conclusion, while it is common to experience discomfort after surgery, persistent pain should not be ignored. If your symptoms continue to cause significant distress or interfere with your daily life, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Your well-being is paramount, and addressing these concerns with a healthcare professional can help you find relief and ensure proper healing.

Similar Q&A

Managing Pain and Discomfort from Foreskin Injury: Expert Advice

Hello, doctor. Earlier this year, I accidentally injured the skin on the glans of my penis during vigorous sexual activity, resulting in a ring-like wound on the distal third of my penis. After the injury, the skin became red, but I noticed that it appeared to have healed externa...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You should seek medical attention from a urologist at the hospital. Generally, injuries like this are not easily sustained, and the frequent use of ointments is not advisable. I personally do not recommend using lotions or petroleum jelly. Avoiding sexual activity or DIY m...

Post-Circumcision Pain and Recovery: What to Expect After Frenulum Fixation

Hello Doctor: I underwent laser circumcision and fascial anchoring (subcutaneous penile fixation) last week (on October 16). I would like to understand if some postoperative symptoms are normal. 1. During erections, I feel pain not only at the circumcision site but throughout t...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1. During an erection, in addition to the pain from the foreskin incision, I feel pain throughout the entire penis. Even a slight touch in any direction while erect causes the pain to double, especially near the base where it feels particularly tight, as if a tendon is b...

Post-Surgery Sensitivity and Pain in Glans: Causes and Solutions

Hello Dr. Chen, I underwent penile correction surgery (traditional circumcision) on June 3rd. Since then, the pain in my penis has gradually improved, although there is a healing wound on the ventral side that had previously opened, and the sutures are still in place but starting...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Hello Nick: For any post-operative issues, it is best to consult your original surgeon, who can provide you with the most appropriate explanations. Dr. Chen Jian-sheng, Urology Department, Xinying Hospital.

Understanding Foreskin Issues: When to Consider Surgery for Tightness and Pain

I inquired about the glans and foreskin issues on June 13 (#124432). The doctor advised me to refrain from sexual activity for two to three weeks, but during instances of excessive arousal and erection, the skin gets stretched outward, and after the two to three weeks, the skin c...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Surgery may be necessary. If your lesion is circular, it will need to be excised. If there are areas that are too tight, the effectiveness of applying ointment may be uncertain, making it difficult to achieve satisfactory results. Wishing you good health.