Post-Circumcision Pain: What to Expect and When to Heal

Pain after circumcision?

Hello, Doctor.
Thank you for your hard work.
I underwent a circumcision surgery (minimally invasive) on January 22 and have a few questions I would like to ask.
Thank you.
1.
It has been about a week since the surgery, and I am still experiencing significant pain and swelling, especially in the area above the sutures where there is edema.
It hurts to touch, and there are some scabs on the surface of the glans.
Is this normal? How long can I expect the pain to last?
2.
During my follow-up appointment on January 29, the doctor mentioned that I no longer need to bandage or apply ointment, and that I should keep the area dry.
The post-operative condition is considered good, but the swollen area is still painful.
If I am concerned about not being able to engage in normal activities without a bandage, is it acceptable to bandage it myself and remove it at night?
3.
There is also some swelling at the meatus of the glans.
Is this normal? How long will it take to resolve?
4.
Initially, I heard the doctor say that recovery from minimally invasive surgery is quick and that overall pain is minimal.
However, after a week, I still feel uncomfortable and sensitive to touch.
Will the discomfort improve after the sutures fall out?
5.
The doctor mentioned that I can take a shower.
Will showering help expedite the removal of the sutures?
6.
I have tried several pain medications, but they seem ineffective.
Should I refrain from taking any more and continue to endure the pain?
Thank you, Doctor.

Mr. Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/30

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

If there is pain or swelling, especially if the swelling is severe, when the glans is exposed for the first time, it may take more than two weeks to improve.
However, it is still recommended that you visit a urologist for an in-person examination to get a clear understanding of the issue.

Reply Date: 2021/01/30

More Info

Post-circumcision pain is a common concern for patients following the procedure, and it’s important to understand what to expect during the healing process. Here’s a comprehensive overview based on your questions and general medical knowledge regarding post-circumcision recovery.

1. Pain and Swelling: It is normal to experience pain and swelling after circumcision, especially in the first week. The pain is often due to the surgical trauma and the healing process. The swelling, particularly around the sutures, can be attributed to inflammation as your body responds to the surgery. Typically, pain should start to diminish significantly after the first week, but some discomfort may persist for a few weeks. If the pain is severe or worsening, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider to rule out any complications such as infection.

2. Dressing and Care: If your doctor has advised that you can keep the area dry and no longer needs to be bandaged, it’s generally best to follow that advice. However, if you feel that the area is too sensitive or painful without a dressing, you can lightly cover it at night and remove it during the day to allow for air exposure. Just ensure that the dressing is clean and does not stick to the wound, as this can cause further irritation.

3. Gland and Meatus Swelling: Mild swelling of the glans (the head of the penis) and the meatus (the opening) can be normal after circumcision. This swelling should gradually decrease over the next few weeks. If you notice significant changes in color, increased pain, or discharge, these could be signs of infection, and you should seek medical attention.

4. Healing Process: As the sutures dissolve and fall away, you should notice a gradual improvement in discomfort. The pain should lessen as the tissue heals. While micro-surgical techniques often result in less pain and quicker recovery, individual experiences can vary. It’s essential to be patient and allow your body the time it needs to heal.

5. Hygiene and Bathing: Showering is generally encouraged after circumcision, as it can help keep the area clean and promote healing. However, avoid soaking in baths or swimming until your doctor gives you the go-ahead, as these can introduce bacteria to the healing area. Showering will not speed up the dissolution of the sutures but will help maintain cleanliness, which is crucial for preventing infection.

6. Pain Management: If over-the-counter pain medications are not providing relief, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend alternative pain management strategies or prescribe a different medication. It’s not advisable to simply endure significant pain without seeking further assistance, as effective pain management is an important part of recovery.

In summary, while some discomfort and swelling are expected after circumcision, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms and communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns. Healing can take time, and individual experiences may vary, but with proper care and attention, you should see improvement in the coming weeks. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation.

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