Post-Circumcision Care: Healing Time and What to Expect

Q: Post-Circumcision Care: Healing Time and What to Expect

Hello： 1) If it is abnormal, it is best to return for a follow-up appointment to have it removed. <br>If that is inconvenient, you can soak it in warm water to see if it will come off, but self-treatment may sometimes lead to bleeding. <br>2) It will gradually resolve; if it is a

Post-circumcision care

Hello, Doctor.

1.
It has been almost a month since my circumcision, but the stitches have not completely dissolved.
Is this normal?
2.
After the procedure, there is a ring around the wound that looks like a swim ring.
How long will it take for this to go away?
3.
Once it disappears, is that ring a scab? Thank you, Doctor.

tim, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/07

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) If it is abnormal, it is best to return for a follow-up appointment to have it removed.
If that is inconvenient, you can soak it in warm water to see if it will come off, but self-treatment may sometimes lead to bleeding.
2) It will gradually resolve; if it is a dark hematoma, it may take a long time.
If it is just general swelling, it will gradually improve, but it may take a few weeks.
3) Initially, it will be harder scar tissue, but over time it will soften.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/08/07

More Info

Post-circumcision care is crucial for ensuring proper healing and minimizing complications. After circumcision, it is common for patients to have questions regarding the healing process, what to expect, and how to care for the surgical site. Here are some insights based on your questions:
1. Sutures Not Dissolving: It is not uncommon for the sutures used during circumcision to take longer than expected to dissolve. Typically, absorbable sutures can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks to dissolve completely, but in some cases, they may last longer, especially if they are of a thicker material. If you are approaching one month post-surgery and the sutures are still intact, it may be worth consulting your healthcare provider for an evaluation. They can determine if the sutures are indeed absorbable or if they need to be removed.

2. Swelling and "Ring" Appearance: After circumcision, some swelling is normal, and it can create a ring-like appearance around the glans (the head of the penis). This swelling usually subsides within a few days to a week post-surgery. However, if the swelling persists beyond this timeframe or is accompanied by pain, redness, or discharge, it could indicate an infection or other complications. In such cases, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

3. Scabbing: The area around the circumcision site may appear crusty or scabbed as it heals. This is a normal part of the healing process. The scab forms as the body works to heal the tissue underneath. It is essential to keep the area clean and dry to promote healing. Avoid picking at the scab, as this can lead to bleeding or infection. The scab should naturally fall off as the underlying tissue heals, which can take a few weeks.

Additional Care Tips:
- Hygiene: Keep the area clean by gently washing it with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area, as this can irritate the skin.

- Moisturizing: Some healthcare providers recommend applying a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) or petroleum jelly to the area to keep it moist and prevent scabbing. However, always follow your doctor's specific recommendations regarding ointments.

- Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or those provided by your healthcare provider.

- Monitoring for Complications: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge that is yellow or green. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure that healing is progressing as expected. They can provide personalized advice based on your healing progress.

In conclusion, while some variations in healing time and appearance are normal after circumcision, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Proper care and monitoring can help ensure a smooth recovery process.

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