Unhappiness After Circumcision: Seeking Solutions for Appearance Issues - Urology

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Unhappy after circumcision?


About a decade ago, when I was in middle school, I underwent a circumcision due to phimosis.
At that time, the doctor removed all the red skin on the left side, but left part of it on the right side.
As a result, when I have an erection, the glans noticeably tilts to one side, and the left side feels somewhat tight.
I’m not sure if this is related to the glans directly connecting with the remaining skin, but the pigmentation on that side has extended onto the glans, causing a significant color difference between that area and the rest of the penis, particularly darker.
When I was younger, I didn’t pay much attention to the appearance of my penis, but now I feel uncomfortable about it because my girlfriend has questions regarding this.
Each time I’m asked about it, I feel unhappy.
I would like to consult a doctor to see if there are any methods to improve the appearance.

Da Dong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/28

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, it's necessary to see the situation in person to provide suggestions.
If it's just uneven pigmentation, it may not be possible to improve it.
However, if the tissue or epidermis is tighter, causing asymmetry, it can be corrected.
The surgery is quite simple.
I still recommend consulting with a urologist or a plastic surgeon.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/07/28

More Info


It sounds like you're experiencing some distress related to the appearance of your penis following your circumcision. This is a common concern for many individuals who have undergone the procedure, especially when there are noticeable asymmetries or changes in skin color. Let's break down your situation and explore potential solutions.

Firstly, it's important to understand that circumcision can lead to variations in the appearance of the penis, particularly if there was an uneven amount of skin removed. The fact that one side appears tighter and the other side has more skin can indeed cause the penis to tilt when erect. This is often due to the tension created by the remaining skin on one side, which can pull the penis in that direction. Additionally, the pigmentation changes you mentioned, where the skin color on the glans (the head of the penis) differs from the shaft, can occur due to several factors, including friction, irritation, or simply the way the skin heals post-surgery.

Here are some potential solutions and considerations for your situation:
1. Consultation with a Urologist: The first step you should take is to consult with a urologist who specializes in male genital surgery. They can provide a thorough examination and discuss your concerns in detail. They may recommend corrective procedures if they deem it necessary.

2. Surgical Options: If the asymmetry is significant and bothersome, surgical options may be available. A urologist can perform a revision circumcision or other procedures to correct the appearance. This could involve removing excess skin from one side or adjusting the tightness to create a more symmetrical appearance.

3. Dermatological Treatments: If the color difference is a concern, dermatological treatments may help. Options such as laser therapy or topical treatments can sometimes help even out skin tone, although these are less common in this area due to sensitivity.

4. Psychological Support: It's also worth considering the psychological impact of your concerns. If these issues are affecting your self-esteem or relationships, speaking with a therapist or counselor could be beneficial. They can help you work through feelings of unhappiness and provide strategies for coping with body image issues.

5. Communication with Your Partner: Open communication with your girlfriend about your feelings and concerns can also alleviate some of the stress. Often, partners are more understanding than we anticipate, and discussing your worries may help strengthen your relationship.

6. Self-Care and Acceptance: Lastly, while seeking solutions, it's essential to practice self-care and work towards self-acceptance. Many men have variations in their anatomy, and understanding that these differences are normal can help reduce anxiety.

In conclusion, while your concerns about the appearance of your penis post-circumcision are valid, there are potential solutions available. Consulting with a qualified urologist will provide you with the best options tailored to your specific situation. Remember that many men experience similar issues, and seeking help is a positive step towards feeling more comfortable in your own skin.

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