Is Your Circumcision Too Long? Post-Procedure Concerns - Urology

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Is the foreskin left too long after circumcision?


Hello doctor, I had a circumcision last September and I would like to ask you, shouldn't the glans be fully exposed after the surgery? However, the left side seems to slightly cover the glans, and sometimes the foreskin even covers about two-thirds of the glans.
Is this normal? Do I need to undergo another surgery? Additionally, the area around the circumcision feels hard to the touch, as if there are still stitches inside.
When I gently pinch it, it hurts a bit.
Are the sutures still there and not absorbed yet?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/17

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Anonymous: Hello, the length after circumcision will be appropriately adjusted based on the patient's needs and the original length.
It is correct that the glans should be covered after the surgery.
There are no sutures inside.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; it is still necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/01/17

More Info


After undergoing a circumcision procedure, it is common for patients to have concerns about the appearance and functionality of the penis, particularly regarding the exposure of the glans (the head of the penis) and the healing process. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some issues that warrant further discussion.

1. Exposure of the Glans: Following a circumcision, the glans should typically be fully exposed. However, it is not uncommon for some residual skin to remain, particularly if the circumcision was not performed with a complete removal of the foreskin. If you find that the left side of your penis is still partially covering the glans or that the foreskin occasionally covers a significant portion of it, this could indicate that the circumcision was not complete or that there is some residual tissue that needs to be addressed.
2. Need for Revision Surgery: Whether or not you need a revision surgery depends on several factors, including the degree of coverage of the glans, any associated discomfort, and your personal preferences. If the remaining foreskin is causing you discomfort, hygiene issues, or psychological distress, it may be worth consulting with a urologist to discuss the possibility of a revision procedure. They can assess the situation and determine if surgical intervention is necessary.

3. Sensation of Hardness and Pain: The feeling of hardness around the circumcision site and the pain upon touching it could be due to several reasons. It is possible that the sutures used during the procedure have not fully absorbed or dissolved yet. Typically, absorbable sutures are used in circumcision, and they can take several weeks to months to fully dissolve. If you are feeling a hard lump or if the area is painful, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional. They can determine if the sutures are still present or if there is another underlying issue, such as scar tissue formation or infection.

4. Post-Procedure Care: Proper post-operative care is crucial for healing. Ensure that you are following any aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon, including keeping the area clean and avoiding any activities that could irritate the site. If you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), or if the pain worsens, you should seek medical attention promptly.

5. Consultation with a Specialist: Given your concerns, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with the urologist who performed your circumcision or another qualified specialist. They can conduct a physical examination, discuss your symptoms in detail, and provide you with tailored advice on whether further surgical intervention is necessary or if your concerns can be managed conservatively.

In summary, while some residual foreskin coverage can occur after circumcision, it is essential to evaluate the situation in the context of your comfort and health. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the best course of action moving forward.

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