Post-Circumcision Healing: What to Expect After Two Weeks

Post-circumcision care

I had my surgery two weeks ago, and although there is only one stitch left, I noticed that there is a hard area under the skin around it.
What could that be? How should I manage it?

Ke Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/09

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

If there is no discharge, it is likely a normal response of the body to inflammation and repair.
However, if it persists for more than a month without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Online consultations cannot replace an in-person examination and physical assessment by a physician.
If there is an illness, it is still recommended to visit a healthcare facility.

Reply Date: 2020/08/09

More Info

After undergoing a circumcision, it is common to have questions about the healing process, especially two weeks post-surgery. It is important to understand that healing can vary significantly from person to person, and some discomfort or unusual sensations may be part of the normal recovery process.

Firstly, the presence of hardness or a firm area beneath the skin around the circumcision site can be attributed to several factors. One possibility is the formation of scar tissue, which is a natural part of the healing process. When the skin is cut, the body responds by producing collagen to repair the area, leading to the formation of scar tissue. This can feel firm or hard to the touch and may take some time to soften as the healing progresses.

Another reason for the hardness could be related to the sutures used during the procedure. If there is still a suture present, it may cause localized irritation or inflammation, leading to a hard area. In some cases, the body may react to the suture material, which can also contribute to the firmness. If the suture is dissolvable, it will eventually break down and be absorbed by the body, but if it is non-dissolvable, it may need to be removed by a healthcare professional.

Regarding the discomfort you are experiencing, mild pain or sensitivity around the circumcision site is not uncommon two weeks post-operation. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or discharge, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. These could be signs of infection or complications that may require medical attention.

To care for the area during the healing process, it is advisable to keep the site clean and dry. You can gently wash the area with mild soap and water, avoiding any harsh chemicals or fragrances that could irritate the skin. After washing, pat the area dry with a clean towel. If you notice any discharge or crusting, it can be gently cleaned with saline solution or warm water.

In terms of managing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be helpful, but always follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have any concerns about medication. Additionally, wearing loose-fitting underwear can help reduce friction and irritation around the healing site.

It is also essential to avoid any activities that could strain the area, such as vigorous exercise or sexual activity, until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider. This will help ensure that the healing process is not disrupted.

In summary, experiencing hardness around the circumcision site two weeks post-surgery can be a normal part of the healing process, often related to scar tissue formation or residual sutures. However, monitoring for signs of infection or complications is crucial. If you have any concerns or if the symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and ensure that your recovery continues smoothly.

Similar Q&A

Is My Circumcision Healing Properly? Understanding Post-Procedure Concerns

Hello, doctor: It has been two weeks since my circumcision, and the stitches have mostly come out. However, there is a 1 cm gap at the site of the circumcision that is not bleeding and is not painful. Should I return to the hospital for re-stitching, or what should I do?

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, generally, re-suturing is not necessary unless the wound healing is poor. Typically, a circumcision wound takes about one month to fully heal. After circumcision, it is generally recommended to avoid sexual activity for two months. Otherwise, there may be a risk of wound d...

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Healing Time and Sexual Activity

I underwent a circumcision on June 15, 2020, and it has been approximately 28 days since the procedure. There are still two stitches remaining; is this a normal occurrence? How much longer will it take for them to completely dissolve? Additionally, during the third week post-surg...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Generally, there is no impact, but if the wound sutures have not dissolved after 2 weeks, it is recommended to return for removal. Wishing you good health.

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Healing Issues and Recovery Timeline

Hello Doctor: I underwent a circumcision on July 4th, and today marks the sixth day post-surgery. I have a few concerns: 1. The wound continues to bleed due to involuntary erections. 2. The swelling has not improved. 3. Sometimes, the wound and glans still hurt even without any f...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Mr. Foreskin: Hello. 1. Wounds generally take about one month to fully heal, and it is usually recommended to wait at least two months before engaging in sexual activity; otherwise, the wound may reopen. 2. Swelling typically lasts for more than two weeks. 3. Pain in the wound an...

Post-Circumcision Wound Concerns: What to Expect After Surgery

About 25 days after the circumcision laser surgery, the stitches have all fallen out, but there is a white line as shown in the image. It doesn't hurt, but will it affect future sexual activity? It seems like the sutures may not have healed properly and might need to be re-s...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It is suspected that the issue is not related to the suture, but rather to the wound. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment. After three weeks, it should not open up, but friction may cause some bleeding. Please return for an evaluation to see if wound ca...