Post-Surgery Concerns: Tightness and Swelling After Circumcision - Urology

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Three weeks post-surgery, there is tightness below the glans during erection?


Due to the presence of incarcerated phimosis, a circumcision was performed three weeks ago.
The wound is healing well, and about 80% of the sutures have fallen out.
However, during erections, there is still slight swelling of the glans, and the area below the sutures feels narrow.
Although this is significantly better than before the surgery (when an erection would obstruct blood flow, causing the glans to turn purple, necessitating quick repositioning of the foreskin), I am still concerned whether the surgeon may have removed too much foreskin or if the suture site is too tight, causing this narrow sensation.
Will this situation improve? Is a second surgery necessary? Additionally, some areas around the suture site feel hard, and I read online that this could be scar tissue.
Will this improve or soften over time? Thank you.

Dionysus, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/18

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology


Three weeks post-surgery, the wound has not yet reached its final stable state.
Both the scar and the overall length and circumference of the foreskin will continue to change gradually.
The areas that currently feel tight are expected to improve over time.
As for the scar, it typically softens unless there are complications; however, in rare cases, such as with keloid-prone individuals, scar hypertrophy is also possible and should be monitored.
If there are any concerns, it is best to follow up with the original surgeon or at least consult another urologist for a more thorough examination.

Reply Date: 2020/12/18

More Info


Post-surgery concerns, especially after a circumcision, can be quite common and often lead to anxiety regarding the healing process and the final outcome. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some residual tightness and swelling in the area after your circumcision, which was performed due to a condition known as phimosis.
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that healing after circumcision can vary significantly from person to person. The fact that your wound is healing well and that the stitches have mostly dissolved is a positive sign. However, the sensations you are experiencing—such as slight swelling during erections and a feeling of tightness at the suture site—are not uncommon in the post-operative period.

The swelling you notice during erections could be due to several factors. After circumcision, the skin and tissues in the area are still adjusting to the changes. The tightness you feel might be a result of the way the skin has been stitched together, especially if the opening left after the circumcision is narrower than expected. This can sometimes lead to a condition known as "meatal stenosis," where the opening of the urethra becomes narrowed, but this is less common in circumcision cases.

In terms of whether the situation will improve, many patients find that as the area continues to heal, the tightness and any residual swelling tend to diminish over time. Scar tissue can form during the healing process, which may contribute to the hardness you feel at the suture site. This scar tissue is often temporary and can soften with time. Regular gentle stretching of the skin and avoiding any activities that may cause trauma to the area can help promote better healing.

If you are concerned that too much skin was removed or that the opening is too small, it is essential to consult with your surgeon or a urologist. They can assess the situation more accurately through a physical examination. If there is a significant concern about the tightness or if you experience pain, difficulty urinating, or any other complications, a follow-up procedure may be necessary. However, many cases resolve without the need for further surgical intervention.

In summary, while it is normal to have concerns post-surgery, especially regarding sensations and healing, many of these issues tend to resolve over time. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can provide reassurance and guidance tailored to your specific situation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation is advisable to ensure that your recovery is on track and to address any potential complications early on.

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