Phimosis: Treatment and Recovery Insights - Urology

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Phimosis issue


Hello Doctor: I used to have a long foreskin, but the glans could easily be exposed during erection or after.
However, about a month ago, I experienced severe skin tearing of the foreskin, possibly due to a drug allergy.
After approximately two weeks of treatment, it finally healed, but now I am unable to retract the foreskin.
Whether erect or not, only about a quarter of the glans is exposed.
I consulted a doctor who prescribed "Diprogenta" for me to apply.
How long should I use it before I can restore the ability to easily retract the foreskin and expose the glans as before? This has caused me significant distress, and I kindly ask for your guidance.
Thank you.

pp, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/12/27

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, we need to assess the extent of the injury to the foreskin.
If it has caused severe narrowing, surgical correction may be necessary.
If it is mild and you choose medication treatment, it will take approximately six months.

Reply Date: 2012/12/27

More Info


Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). It can occur due to various reasons, including congenital factors, inflammation, or scarring. In your case, it seems that the phimosis developed after an allergic reaction that caused significant skin damage, leading to scarring and difficulty in retracting the foreskin.

The treatment for phimosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In many cases, conservative treatments are effective. The medication "帝普健" (likely referring to a topical corticosteroid) that your doctor prescribed is commonly used to help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin. Corticosteroids can help soften the skin and may allow for easier retraction of the foreskin over time.

Typically, the application of topical corticosteroids is recommended for a period of several weeks, often around 4 to 6 weeks, but this can vary based on individual response and the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider. It is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding the frequency and duration of application. You should apply the medication as directed, usually once or twice daily, and monitor for any signs of improvement or adverse reactions.

In addition to medication, gentle stretching exercises of the foreskin may be beneficial. This involves carefully pulling the foreskin back as far as it can comfortably go without causing pain. This should be done gradually and should not be forced, as this could lead to further injury or scarring. It is advisable to perform these exercises after applying the topical medication, as this can help facilitate the stretching process.

If conservative measures do not yield satisfactory results, or if the condition is causing significant discomfort or complications, surgical options may be considered. One common surgical procedure is circumcision, which involves the removal of the foreskin entirely. However, this is typically regarded as a last resort after other treatments have been explored.

It's also important to note that recovery from phimosis can take time, and patience is crucial. The healing process may vary from person to person, and while some individuals may see improvement within weeks, others may require a longer duration of treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

In summary, managing phimosis involves a combination of topical treatments, gentle stretching, and possibly surgical options if conservative measures fail. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider throughout this process to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

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Hello, doctor. 1. I have phimosis, where the glans cannot be exposed during an erection. Is circumcision the only option for phimosis? Are there any medications or ointments that can help loosen the foreskin to expose the glans? 2. I've heard that after circumcision, the ...


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If it is a strangulated phimosis, are there any other methods to improve the condition besides surgery?


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