Post-Circumcision Swelling and Healing: What to Expect

Q: Post-Circumcision Swelling and Healing: What to Expect

Hello： <br>1. <br>After the circumcision, the entire area is swollen, especially around the frenulum, which is particularly severe and red. <br>It hurts when touched but feels normal otherwise. <br>During the follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned that I have a keloid tendency, an

Four days after circumcision, there is swelling around the entire area, particularly severe at the frenulum?

1.
After the circumcision, the entire area is swollen, especially around the frenulum, which is particularly severe.
It is red and painful to touch, but there is no discomfort otherwise.
During the follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned that I have a keloid tendency, which may have been caused by the sutures being too tight.
Although there is inflammation, it does not appear to be a severe infection (no discharge or bleeding).
I would like to know if my current condition is normal or if any treatment is necessary.
2.
I originally had partial adhesion between the foreskin and the glans, which was separated during the surgery.
This area has formed a yellowish-white soft spot, and there is no particular sensation when touched or when applying medication.
After the follow-up visit, the doctor attempted to express it but nothing came out (it still appears yellowish-white).
Is this condition normal? After removing the gauze dressing, there is some yellow discharge from that area, and I am unsure if this indicates an infection.

Mr. Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/02

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
After the circumcision, the entire area is swollen, especially around the frenulum, which is particularly severe and red.
It hurts when touched but feels normal otherwise.
During the follow-up visit, the doctor mentioned that I have a keloid tendency, and it might be due to the sutures being too tight.
Although there is inflammation, it does not appear to be a serious infection (no discharge or bleeding).
Is my current condition normal, or is there any need for further treatment? --> If the doctor did not express any particular concerns during the examination, just keep the area clean and dry and wait for the sutures to fall out.
2.
I originally had some adhesions between the foreskin and the glans, which were separated during the surgery.
A yellowish-white soft area has formed in that region, and there is no particular sensation when touched or when applying medication.
The doctor tried to squeeze it during the follow-up visit, but nothing came out (it still appears yellowish-white).
Is this condition normal? --> If there is no redness, swelling, or discharge, this situation is common.
After removing the gauze dressing, there may be some yellow discharge in that area; I am unsure if this indicates an infection.
--> The yellow discharge may be serous fluid from the separation site.
Keep the area clean and dry.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/02

More Info

Post-circumcision swelling and healing can be a concerning experience for many patients. It's essential to understand what is considered normal and what might require further medical attention. Based on your description, let's address your concerns regarding the swelling, redness, and discharge following your circumcision.

1. Swelling and Redness: It's common for the area around the circumcision site to swell, especially around the frenulum (the band of tissue on the underside of the penis). This swelling can be exacerbated if you have a predisposition to keloids or hypertrophic scarring, which may explain the pronounced swelling and redness you are experiencing. The fact that you are experiencing pain upon touch but not at rest is also typical, as the area is healing and may be sensitive.
Your doctor's assessment that there is no severe infection (no drainage or bleeding) is reassuring. However, if the swelling continues to worsen or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, increased pain, or any discharge that appears purulent (thick and yellow/green), you should seek further medical evaluation. In the meantime, keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding any irritants, and following your doctor's post-operative care instructions is crucial.

2. Yellow-White Soft Area: The yellow-white area you described is likely a part of the healing process. After separating the adhesions between the foreskin and glans (the head of the penis), it is not uncommon for a fibrinous exudate to form as part of the healing process. This can appear as a yellowish film or soft area. If it is not painful and does not have a foul odor, it is generally not a cause for concern.
The presence of some yellow discharge after removing the dressing can also be normal, as this may be a combination of healing tissue and any residual antiseptic or ointment used post-surgery. However, if the discharge becomes more profuse, changes in color to green or brown, or is accompanied by an increase in pain or swelling, it could indicate an infection, and you should consult your healthcare provider.

Recommendations:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the swelling and any changes in the discharge. If you notice worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They can assess the healing process and address any concerns you may have.

- Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene in the area. Gently clean the site with mild soap and water, and avoid any harsh chemicals or irritants.

- Avoid Irritation: Wear loose-fitting underwear to minimize friction and irritation to the healing area.

In conclusion, while some swelling and discharge can be normal post-circumcision, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive about your healing process. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, reaching out to your healthcare provider for advice is always the best course of action. Healing can take time, and it’s important to ensure that everything is progressing as it should.

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