Can I Remove My Bandage After Circumcision? Expert Advice

I have undergone a circumcision?

I had a circumcision four days ago and changed the dressing three days ago.
Can I remove the gauze now? I feel like the gauze has a bit of an odor.

An An, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/08

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, generally my personal practice is to have patients return to the outpatient clinic for a dressing change and wound inspection three days after surgery.
If there are no issues, the subsequent wound care is left to the patient.
It is best to change the dressing daily and to disinfect and clean the wound with povidone-iodine or ointment.
The wound typically takes about two weeks to stabilize.
If there are any unclear or insufficient details, I appreciate your understanding.

Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2009/08/08

More Info

After a circumcision, proper care of the surgical site is crucial for healing and preventing infection. Generally, the bandage or dressing applied after the procedure should remain in place for a specific period, typically around 5 to 7 days, depending on the surgeon's instructions and the individual's healing process.

In your case, since you had the circumcision four days ago and have already changed the dressing once three days ago, it is essential to assess the condition of the surgical site before deciding to remove the bandage. Here are some considerations:
1. Healing Progress: If the area appears clean, dry, and without excessive redness, swelling, or discharge, it may be safe to remove the bandage. However, if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pus), you should consult your healthcare provider before removing the dressing.

2. Odor: A slight odor from the bandage can be normal due to the presence of bodily fluids or blood. However, if the smell is strong or foul, it could indicate an infection. In such cases, it is advisable to contact your doctor for further evaluation.

3. Follow-Up Care: After removing the bandage, keep the area clean and dry. You may be advised to clean the area gently with mild soap and water. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or fragrances that could irritate the sensitive skin.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Pay attention to how the area feels after removing the bandage. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or any unusual symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly.

5. Consult Your Surgeon: Ultimately, the best course of action is to follow the specific instructions given by your surgeon. If you are unsure about whether to remove the bandage, or if you have any concerns about the healing process, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation.

In summary, while it may be possible to remove the bandage after four days, it is essential to assess the healing progress and any signs of infection. If in doubt, consult your surgeon for the best advice tailored to your recovery. Proper care and monitoring will help ensure a smooth healing process after your circumcision.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Care for Laser Circumcision: Managing Bleeding and Bandage Issues

Hello, I had laser circumcision surgery this morning. After the procedure, the doctor only informed me of the follow-up appointment and did not mention that I need to change the dressing daily. After dinner and taking my medication tonight, I noticed that the wound seems to be oo...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly, disinfect your hands and the gauze wound with povidone-iodine, and then apply an oily ointment to lubricate the entire penis. After that, try to remove the adhesive bandage. If it is too painful to do so, you may need to go to the ...

Do You Need to Remove Stitches After Circumcision?

Hello Dr. Yan, I had a circumcision on August 11, and it has been a week since the surgery. The sutures are still on my foreskin. Is this normal? Should I go for suture removal? Please help me with this. Thank you!

Dr. Yan Dawei reply Urology
If the sutures are made with absorbable sutures (commonly known as "meat thread"), there is no need for suture removal; however, it is still recommended to follow up with an outpatient physician.

Post-Circumcision Concerns: Bruising, Stitches, and Infection Risks

I recently underwent a circumcision a few days ago, and the bandage has been removed. I'm currently applying a medication similar to ointment. I've noticed what appears to be bruising under the glans, and there are blood stains on the bandage every time I change it. The...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Ah Hao: Hello, it's nice to see you again. After the circumcision surgery, it is normal to experience some bleeding and swelling, so don't worry too much. However, if the bleeding is excessive, seek medical attention promptly. For the first two days post-surgery, I reco...

Post-Circumcision Care: Dealing with Painful Stitches and Recovery Tips

Hello Doctor: I had a circumcision surgery last Tuesday, and it has been a week since then. Following the doctor's instructions, I was able to remove the bandage and take a shower. Over the past few days, I have gotten used to walking, and it feels almost normal (because of ...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Bamboo: Hello, for a typical circumcision procedure, absorbable sutures are used. They usually take about 2-4 weeks to be completely absorbed. If you feel too much irritation, you can return to the clinic to have the sutures removed around 10-14 days post-surgery. The rate of abs...