Post-Circumcision Recovery: When to Expect Normal Erections and Care for Stitches

Post-circumcision care

Hello, Doctor.

1.
I had a circumcision almost 10 days ago, and the wound is healing quite well.
Some of the stitches have already fallen out.
For the past two weeks, I have been taking sedative medication before bed, which has reduced the prominence of morning erections; they only feel slightly engorged.
Whenever I experience an erection, I immediately grip my penis until it subsides.
I would like to know when I can expect to have normal erections again without affecting the healing of the wound, and when I can stop taking the sedative medication.
2.
Regarding the absorbable sutures, should I just wait for them to fall out naturally? If they do not fall out, do I need to have them removed? Will leaving the sutures in place cause any harm?

123456, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/31

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

In general, the wound should stabilize after two weeks.
However, each individual's situation may vary, and if there are any issues, it is important to return to the urology department for an examination.
If the sutures have not dissolved, it is also necessary to return to the urology department for removal, as failure to do so could lead to a wound infection.

Reply Date: 2021/01/31

More Info

Post-circumcision recovery can vary significantly from person to person, but there are some general guidelines and expectations that can help you navigate this period.
1. Normal Erections and Recovery Timeline: After circumcision, it is common to experience some discomfort and changes in the way erections feel. Typically, you can expect to see significant healing within 2 to 3 weeks post-surgery. By this time, many patients report that their erections return to a more normal state, although it may take longer for some individuals. It is important to listen to your body; if you experience pain during an erection, it is advisable to avoid sexual activity until you feel comfortable. The use of sedative medications to manage morning erections is a temporary solution, and you should consult your healthcare provider about when it might be appropriate to stop taking these medications. Generally, if you are not experiencing significant pain or complications, you may be able to resume normal erections within a few weeks after the procedure.

2. Care for Stitches: If you have received absorbable sutures, they are designed to dissolve on their own over time. Typically, these sutures will begin to dissolve within a week or two after surgery and should completely disappear within a few weeks. If you notice that the sutures have not dissolved after a month, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. In most cases, leaving the sutures in place will not cause harm, but if they are still present after an extended period, they may need to be removed to prevent irritation or infection.

Additional Care Tips:
- Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. You can gently wash the area with mild soap and water, but avoid scrubbing the site. Pat it dry afterward.

- Avoiding Irritation: Wear loose-fitting underwear and avoid activities that may cause friction or pressure on the area, such as vigorous exercise or sexual activity, until you are fully healed.

- Monitoring for Complications: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, discharge, or fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.

In summary, while you can expect to return to normal erections within a few weeks, it is crucial to prioritize your comfort and healing. If you have any concerns about your recovery or the condition of your stitches, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. Your recovery is important, and taking the right steps can help ensure a smooth transition back to normal activities.

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