Painful Skin Tears After Circumcision: Causes and Care

Q: Painful Skin Tears After Circumcision: Causes and Care

Hello： 1. Why does my foreskin itch by itself and then break after a few days? --> If it's at the wound site, it may be due to DIY pulling. 2. What potential underlying diseases could be involved? --> Most likely caused by erections. 3. It's been over a year

The area where the circumcision was performed has裂開 and is painful?

Hello Doctor, recently my foreskin suddenly split open.
At first, it was just slightly red, swollen, and itchy, but two days later, the skin split on its own, looking as if it had peeled off along the circumcision line.
Now, there is a broken area at the scar junction that is oozing blood, resembling a laceration, and it seems like the epidermis is missing.
I sought medical attention, and the doctor prescribed painkillers and ointment, advising me to keep it bandaged.
It has been four days since I bandaged it, but the broken skin has not fully healed, and when I remove the bandage, it sticks and bleeds, causing significant pain.

1.
Why did my foreskin become itchy and then split open after a few days?
2.
What potential underlying conditions could be causing this?
3.
It has been over a year since my circumcision; why am I still experiencing these symptoms? Is this normal?
4.
What should I do if I can't apply ointment to certain areas of the wound?
5.
How long will it take for the ruptured wound to heal?
Additional information: I have not engaged in sexual intercourse, have a habit of masturbating daily, and do not use lubrication.

Kasmi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/29

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
Why does my foreskin itch by itself and then break after a few days? --> If it's at the wound site, it may be due to DIY pulling.
2.
What potential underlying diseases could be involved? --> Most likely caused by erections.
3.
It's been over a year since my circumcision; why am I still experiencing these symptoms? Is this normal? --> It's not normal.
4.
What should I do if I can't apply ointment to certain wounds? --> You should be able to apply it; the reason you can't may be...?
5.
How long does it take for a ruptured wound to heal? --> Even small ones take more than 10 days.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/12/29

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds quite uncomfortable and concerning. Let's break down your questions regarding the painful skin tears after circumcision.

1. Why did my foreskin itch and then tear?
The itching and subsequent tearing of the skin can be attributed to several factors. One common cause is irritation or inflammation of the skin, which can occur due to friction, lack of moisture, or even an allergic reaction to soaps or other products. If the skin becomes dry or irritated, it can lead to cracking or tearing, especially if there is any excessive movement or friction in that area. Additionally, conditions like balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or infections can also lead to similar symptoms.

2. What potential underlying conditions could be present?
There are several potential underlying conditions that could contribute to your symptoms. These include:
- Dermatitis: This is an inflammation of the skin that can be caused by irritants or allergens.

- Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections can lead to symptoms like itching, redness, and tearing.

- Lichen sclerosus: A chronic skin condition that can cause white patches and tearing of the skin.

- Psoriasis: This autoimmune condition can also affect the genital area and lead to skin changes.

If you notice persistent symptoms, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist or urologist for a thorough evaluation.

3. Why am I experiencing these symptoms over a year after circumcision? Is this normal?
It's not typical to experience such symptoms a year after circumcision. However, the skin in that area can remain sensitive and prone to irritation, especially if there are ongoing factors like friction or dryness. If the skin has not healed properly or if there is an underlying condition, it could lead to recurrent issues. It's important to follow up with a healthcare provider to rule out any complications or persistent conditions.

4. What should I do if I can't apply ointment to certain areas of the wound?
If you find it difficult to apply ointment to certain areas due to pain or the wound being stuck to the dressing, it’s crucial to be gentle. You can try soaking the area in warm water to help loosen any dried blood or ointment before changing the dressing. If the pain is too severe, consult your doctor for alternative methods of care or pain management. They may suggest a different type of dressing or topical treatment that can be applied without causing further discomfort.

5. How long will it take for the torn skin to heal?
The healing time for skin tears can vary significantly based on the severity of the tear, your overall health, and how well you care for the wound. Generally, minor skin tears can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal. However, if the area is still painful, bleeding, or not improving after several days of care, it’s essential to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

In the meantime, ensure that you keep the area clean and dry, avoid any irritants, and follow your doctor's instructions regarding pain management and wound care. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.
It's important to prioritize your health and comfort, so don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Similar Q&A

Post-Circumcision Pain: Dealing with Skin Tears During Intercourse

Hello Doctor: I originally had phimosis, but I was able to retract the foreskin to expose the glans. A few months ago, after a sexual encounter, I experienced a tear in the foreskin. Since then, during subsequent sexual activities, the foreskin has repeatedly torn. After visiting...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: You may need to take special care of your skin. Keep the wound and the surrounding skin clean and dry for an extended period. If it gets wet, make sure to dry it thoroughly. Avoid engaging in vigorous sexual activity until the wound has completely healed. If the issue recu...

Understanding Post-Surgery Pain and Skin Issues After Circumcision

Hello Doctor, I underwent a circumcision procedure on November 15th, and everything seemed normal initially. However, after the surgeon advised me to start showering on November 20th, I took my first shower and maintained proper hygiene and dressing changes. The next day, Novembe...

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology
Hello: Your condition requires clinical judgment. If it is friction-related, it should occur gradually. Initially, if there is a wound, it will be painful. Wishing you good health.

Managing Skin Tears After Circumcision: When to Seek Medical Help

Due to a scratch on the skin of the foreskin (which retracts completely behind the coronal sulcus during erection), I later applied petroleum jelly to allow it to heal naturally. After healing, I thought it would be okay to masturbate again, but the scratched area developed crack...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Based on the length of the tear, I personally recommend that if it is more than 1 centimeter, you should seek medical attention from a urologist at a hospital.

Post-Circumcision Skin Tear: Infection Risks and Healing Concerns

On July 28, I had a circumcision. Today, after masturbating (just rubbing the glans), there is a small abrasion at the site of the circumcision, with a little bit of bleeding. I have applied Betadine and covered it with a bandage. Should I be concerned about infection? Will it he...

Dr. Zhang Chengye reply Urology
Hello: There is a possibility of infection, depending on whether you maintained hygiene during the disinfection process. It is advisable to observe the situation for a few days. If there is no improvement or if the pain persists, please seek medical attention as soon as possible....