Post-Circumcision Pain and Tightness: What to Expect After Surgery

One month after the minimally invasive circumcision, the suture site feels very tight and painful during erections?

Hello Doctor, I underwent a circumcision procedure on September 24th, and now only three stitches remain, which are loose and may fall out at any time.
It seems that I am almost fully recovered.
The doctor left a portion of skin to prevent excessive tightness during erections.
However, I am experiencing an issue where the sutured area feels very tight and painful during erections, which causes me to lose my erection.
Additionally, I am unable to achieve the same length or vascularity during erections as I could before the surgery due to the pain.
When I am not in pain, my erections are normal, but the area where it hurts at the sutured site has been hard to the touch for some time, and the stitches have been gone for a while.
Will this area naturally heal over time so that I can achieve normal erections again?

Xiao Xu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/22

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

I believe it's necessary to return for a follow-up appointment so that the surgeon can examine whether any further treatment is needed.

Reply Date: 2021/10/22

More Info

Post-circumcision pain and tightness can be concerning for many patients, especially when they experience discomfort during erections. After a circumcision, it is common to have some degree of pain, tightness, or sensitivity in the area where the surgery was performed. This is typically due to the healing process and the adjustments your body is making after the removal of the foreskin.

In your case, since you mentioned that you had the surgery on September 24 and are experiencing tightness and pain at the suture site during erections, it is important to understand a few key points about the healing process and what you can expect moving forward.

1. Healing Timeline: After circumcision, the healing process can take several weeks to months. During this time, it is normal to experience some discomfort, especially when the area is stimulated, such as during an erection. The tightness you are feeling may be due to the scar tissue forming as the sutures dissolve and the skin heals.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: The "hard" area you feel around the suture site is likely scar tissue. Scar tissue can be less flexible than normal skin, which may contribute to the tightness and discomfort you are experiencing. Over time, scar tissue can soften and become more pliable, but this process can take time.

3. Erection and Pain: If you are experiencing pain during erections, it could be due to the tightness of the skin or the scar tissue. It is important to avoid any activities that exacerbate the pain, as this could lead to further complications or prolonged discomfort.

4. Consultation with Your Surgeon: Since you mentioned that some sutures are still present and that you are experiencing significant discomfort, it is advisable to follow up with your surgeon or urologist. They can assess the healing process, check for any signs of infection or complications, and provide guidance on how to manage your symptoms. They may also recommend treatments such as topical medications or physical therapy to help with the tightness.

5. Expectations for Recovery: While many patients find that their symptoms improve over time, individual recovery can vary. It is possible that with time, the tightness and pain will diminish, allowing for normal erections. However, if the pain persists or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary.

6. Self-Care and Management: In the meantime, consider gentle stretching exercises for the area, if recommended by your healthcare provider. Keeping the area clean and dry is also essential to prevent infection. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while it is common to experience some discomfort and tightness after circumcision, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options to help you through this recovery phase. Remember, healing takes time, and with proper care, many patients return to normal function without long-term issues.

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