Pseudo Phimosis: Do You Need Surgery or Just Good Hygiene? - Urology

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Pseudo phimosis, or false phimosis, is a condition where the foreskin (prepuce) of the penis cannot be retracted fully over the glans (the head of the penis) when flaccid but can be retracted when the penis is erect. This condition is often confused with true phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be retracted at all, leading to potential complications such as infections or inflammation.

In your case, you mentioned that you can manually retract the foreskin and that it feels tight only during full erection, but there is no significant pain. This suggests that you may indeed be experiencing pseudo phimosis rather than true phimosis. The ability to retract the foreskin when flaccid and the absence of pain are key indicators that surgical intervention may not be necessary.

Good hygiene is crucial in managing pseudo phimosis. Regular cleaning of the area can help prevent infections and other complications. It is important to gently clean beneath the foreskin to remove any smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils) that can accumulate and lead to irritation or infection. If you maintain proper hygiene, you may find that the tightness decreases over time.

Regarding your question about whether continued manual retraction of the foreskin can lead to it becoming looser, the answer is generally yes. Regular gentle stretching of the foreskin can help increase its elasticity. However, it is essential to do this carefully to avoid causing any pain or injury. Over time, with consistent gentle retraction, you may find that the foreskin becomes more pliable, allowing for easier retraction.

If you experience any pain, discomfort, or recurrent infections, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and determine whether any further treatment, including surgical options, is necessary. Surgical intervention, such as circumcision or preputioplasty, is typically reserved for cases where there is significant pain, recurrent infections, or other complications that cannot be managed through conservative measures.

In summary, based on your description, it seems that you may be dealing with pseudo phimosis rather than true phimosis. Maintaining good hygiene and gently stretching the foreskin may alleviate the tightness over time. However, if you have concerns or if symptoms worsen, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step.