Recovery After Circumcision: What to Expect - Urology

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Recovery after circumcision can vary significantly from person to person, and it is not uncommon to have concerns about swelling, stitches, and the overall healing process. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing prolonged swelling at the frenulum site and some issues with the stitches. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some insights into what you can expect during recovery.


Swelling After Circumcision
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process following any surgical procedure, including circumcision. The body responds to surgery with inflammation, which can lead to swelling in the affected area. Typically, this swelling should gradually decrease over time. However, if the swelling persists for an extended period, it may be a sign that the healing process is taking longer than usual.
In your case, since it has been several weeks since the procedure, it is advisable to monitor the swelling closely. If the swelling is accompanied by increased pain, redness, warmth, or discharge, these could be signs of infection, and you should seek medical attention promptly.


Stitches and Healing
Regarding the stitches, it is common for some stitches to dissolve on their own while others may take longer to fall out. The timeline for dissolving stitches can vary based on the type of material used and individual healing rates. Typically, absorbable stitches can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to dissolve completely. If you notice that some stitches are still intact while others have fallen out, this is generally not a cause for concern as long as the area is not showing signs of infection.

If you are experiencing bleeding when pulling on the stitches, it is best to avoid manipulating them further. This could disrupt the healing process and potentially lead to complications. It is essential to allow the area to heal naturally without unnecessary tension on the stitches.


Infection Concerns
Infection is a risk with any surgical procedure, including circumcision. Signs of infection may include:
- Increased swelling or redness
- Warmth around the surgical site
- Pus or unusual discharge
- Fever or chills
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend an examination and possibly prescribe antibiotics if an infection is suspected.


Follow-Up Care
You mentioned that you had a follow-up appointment on February 14, where the doctor advised you to wait for natural healing. While waiting for the body to heal is often the best approach, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you feel that your recovery is not progressing or if you have persistent concerns, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation.
In some cases, if the swelling and discomfort do not improve, your doctor may suggest additional interventions or treatments to facilitate healing.

Conclusion
In summary, while some swelling and delayed absorption of stitches can be normal after circumcision, it is essential to monitor for signs of infection and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider. Healing can take time, and patience is often required. However, if you feel that something is not right, seeking further medical advice is always a prudent choice. Your health and comfort should be the priority, and your doctor can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.