Post-Surgery Concerns: Recovery After Circumcision

Q: Post-Surgery Concerns: Recovery After Circumcision

Mr. Mu Chen： Hello. 1. Generally, sutures take about 2 weeks to be absorbed, and it may take even longer. Exposing them to water prematurely may lead to infection. 2. The entire penis retracting towards the abdomen may be due to excessive fat and p

I'm a bit worried?

Hello, doctor.
I underwent a circumcision surgery due to phimosis and have a few questions to ask:
1.
The doctor mentioned that I could take a shower after five days and that the stitches would dissolve on their own.
However, I have seen responses from other doctors suggesting that it should be a week or even two weeks before getting the area wet.
Am I rushing it by showering too soon, and could this have any adverse effects?
2.
After the surgery, my penis is retracted into my lower abdomen, and the glans is directly touching my abdomen.
Is this normal? If there is swelling, will it return to normal after the swelling subsides?
3.
On the third day post-surgery, during my follow-up appointment, the doctor gave me a tube of Neomycin ointment and instructed me to apply it after showering on the fifth day.
I forgot to ask if this should be applied directly to the stitches or elsewhere.
Since I will not be using any bandages after the fifth day, will this affect the healing process?
4.
Due to swelling and skin folds, the stitches are covered by creases.
Will the stitches adhere to the skin? Currently, any touch causes pain, and I am hesitant to pull the skin back for fear of tearing the wound.
Additionally, I have been working, and I feel quite uncomfortable.
How long will it take for everything to return to normal?
5.
How long will it take for the sensitivity of the glans to return to normal? Besides the swelling of the glans, there is also a ring of swelling below that feels very sensitive.
Whenever I bend or squat, I feel discomfort from either newly grown pubic hair or the stitches.

Thank you for your guidance, doctor.

Mu Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/12/15

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Mr.
Mu Chen: Hello.

1.
Generally, sutures take about 2 weeks to be absorbed, and it may take even longer.
Exposing them to water prematurely may lead to infection.

2.
The entire penis retracting towards the abdomen may be due to excessive fat and postoperative swelling, which can exacerbate the condition.
Whether it will return to normal depends on the underlying cause.

3.
A topical antibiotic ointment can be applied to the wound to prevent infection.
If there is no infection, it is not necessary to apply it.

4.
It takes about 2 months for the wound to heal completely before engaging in sexual activity; otherwise, the wound may easily reopen.

5.
It varies depending on individual constitution.
Some people may take up to 6 months to return to a more normal state.

My recommendations:
1.
Local heat application can accelerate wound healing, so if there are no discomforting symptoms, you may try it.

2.
It is not advisable to expose the area to water until swelling has subsided.

If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask, and we can discuss it further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is best to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Sincerely,
Director of Urology, Hsu Wei-Kai, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2011/12/15

More Info

After undergoing circumcision surgery, it is common to have several concerns regarding recovery and postoperative care. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your questions, along with some additional medical insights.

1. Timing for Showering: Your surgeon mentioned that you could shower after five days, which is generally acceptable for many patients. However, the timing can vary based on individual healing and the specific surgical technique used. While some doctors may recommend waiting a week or even two weeks before exposing the area to water, it is crucial to follow your surgeon's advice. If you feel uncertain, it’s best to consult your doctor. Showering too early may increase the risk of infection if the incision site is not adequately healed. Always ensure that the area is gently cleaned and dried afterward.

2. Postoperative Appearance: It is not uncommon for the penis to appear retracted or for the glans (the head of the penis) to be positioned closer to the pubic area immediately after surgery. This can be due to swelling and the effects of the surgical procedure. As the swelling decreases, you should expect the penis to return to its normal appearance. This process can take a few weeks, depending on individual healing rates. If the swelling persists beyond a reasonable timeframe or is accompanied by severe pain, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

3. Application of Ointment: The Neomycin ointment prescribed by your doctor is typically intended for application on the incision site to prevent infection. After your fifth day post-surgery, you should apply it directly to the sutures, ensuring that the area is clean and dry before application. If you have removed the dressing, it is essential to keep the area clean and monitor for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

4. Concerns About Adhesions: It is normal for the sutures to feel tight or for the surrounding skin to appear wrinkled due to swelling. However, if you experience significant pain when touching the area, it may indicate that the sutures are pulling on the skin or that there is some degree of adhesion. It is essential to avoid excessive manipulation of the area to prevent further irritation. If you are concerned about the sutures being adhered to the skin or if the pain worsens, it is best to consult your surgeon for an evaluation.

5. Sensitivity of the Glans: After circumcision, it is common for the glans to be sensitive due to exposure and healing. This sensitivity can last several weeks as the skin adjusts to its new environment. The swelling around the base of the penis may also contribute to discomfort. As healing progresses, sensitivity should gradually decrease. If you find that the sensitivity is unbearable or if you experience pain that interferes with daily activities, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

In summary, postoperative care after circumcision requires careful attention to hygiene, monitoring for signs of infection, and understanding the normal healing process. If you have any concerns about your recovery or if symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. Your comfort and health are paramount during this recovery phase.

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