Post-Circumcision Concerns: Pain and Tightness Around the Glans

After circumcision, what should I know?

I recently had a circumcision almost three weeks ago, and I noticed that the glans is still covered by the foreskin.
When I try to pull it back, it is very painful, similar to how it was before the procedure.
There is a tight ring between the wound and the glans.
I have been soaking it in warm water for five minutes every day.
Later, I visited a doctor at Tzu Chi, and they told me that too much foreskin was left during the circumcision, and I might need to undergo another procedure.
I had the surgery at your hospital in early February.
How did it end up like this?

Liu Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Dear Liu,
After a typical circumcision procedure, it takes about one month for recovery, and the wound will fully heal.
The current surgical methods are more conservative, leaving some foreskin to partially cover the glans, approximately halfway.
Regarding the tight ring of foreskin you mentioned, if it is not due to swelling from the surgery, and if it is indeed a narrowing that occurs during the healing process, you may need to undergo another procedure to excise and correct the narrowed area.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai
Department of Urology
Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2006/02/24

More Info

After circumcision, it is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort, tightness, or pain around the glans (the head of the penis). Your concerns about the tightness and pain, especially if the glans is still covered by the remaining foreskin, are valid and warrant further discussion.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after circumcision, the healing process can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, the initial healing period can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. During this time, it is normal to experience some level of discomfort, sensitivity, and even tightness as the tissues adjust to the changes.

In your case, it seems that the remaining foreskin may be too tight, which can lead to a condition known as "phimosis," where the foreskin cannot be retracted fully over the glans. This can cause pain during attempts to retract the foreskin, and it may also lead to irritation or inflammation. The tightness you describe around the glans could be due to scar tissue formation or inadequate removal of the foreskin during the procedure.

You mentioned that you have been soaking in warm water daily, which is a good practice for promoting healing and reducing discomfort. However, if the tightness persists and is accompanied by significant pain, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. The fact that a doctor suggested that the circumcision may have been too conservative indicates that further evaluation is necessary.

In some cases, if the foreskin is still too tight, a revision circumcision may be recommended. This procedure would involve removing additional foreskin to alleviate the tightness and allow for proper exposure of the glans. It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of this procedure with your doctor, as well as any concerns you may have about pain management and recovery.

Additionally, it is important to monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, discharge, or fever. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while some discomfort and tightness can be expected after circumcision, persistent pain and tightness around the glans should not be ignored. It is advisable to consult with a urologist or the surgeon who performed the circumcision for a thorough evaluation and to discuss the possibility of a revision procedure if necessary. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these concerns early can help prevent further complications and improve your overall recovery experience.

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