Post-circumcision issues?
Hello doctor, I am currently 12 days post circumcision surgery.
I have started showering and the wound has come into contact with water, and I am waiting for the sutures to dissolve.
My concern is that the length of my erect penis is noticeably 3 centimeters shorter than before the surgery, and it feels tight and uncomfortable during erections.
Before the surgery, my penis was straight up to the glans, but after the surgery, there is a noticeable swelling at the suture site, as if blood is not fully reaching the glans.
The shape looks odd, and I am unable to maintain an erection.
Could this be affecting the length difference of 3 centimeters before and after the surgery? Or is this a normal postoperative phenomenon? Thank you for your assistance, doctor.
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/25
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Anonymous: Hello, the length of the penis cannot be affected by circumcision.
As for feeling tight after the surgery, it may be due to local constriction or other issues related to blood circulation.
If it feels too tight, it is advisable to return to the surgeon's clinic for treatment as soon as possible.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is brought to you by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2016/02/25
More Info
Post-circumcision concerns regarding changes in penile length and discomfort are not uncommon, and it is important to address these issues with a clear understanding of the surgical process and the healing timeline.
Firstly, it is essential to recognize that some degree of swelling and discomfort is typical following a circumcision. The surgical procedure involves the removal of the foreskin, which can lead to temporary changes in the appearance and function of the penis. Swelling at the surgical site can create a feeling of tightness, and this may contribute to discomfort during erections. The swelling should gradually subside over the weeks following the surgery, and as it does, the sensation and appearance of the penis should improve.
Regarding the perceived decrease in length, it is important to note that many patients report a temporary reduction in penile length immediately after circumcision due to swelling and the healing process. The skin and tissues around the surgical site may take time to settle, and once the swelling decreases, the length may return closer to its pre-surgical state. However, it is also possible that the way the skin is now positioned after the removal of the foreskin may create an optical illusion of reduced length.
The feeling of tightness during erections can be attributed to several factors, including swelling, scarring, or even the way the skin has healed. If the sutures are still present and have not yet dissolved, they may also contribute to a feeling of tightness. It is crucial to allow adequate time for healing and to follow up with your healthcare provider if the discomfort persists or worsens.
The irregular shape you mentioned, particularly the bulging at the suture line, could indicate localized swelling or hematoma (a collection of blood outside of blood vessels) that may have formed during the healing process. This is typically a temporary condition, but if it does not resolve or if you experience significant pain, it is advisable to consult your surgeon or urologist for further evaluation.
As for the concern about blood flow to the glans (the head of the penis), it is important to ensure that there is no significant vascular compromise. If you notice any changes in color, temperature, or sensation in the glans, or if you experience severe pain, you should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while some changes in length and discomfort are common after circumcision, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and communicate with your healthcare provider. They can assess your healing progress and determine if any further intervention is necessary. Typically, as healing progresses, many of these concerns will resolve. However, if you have persistent issues or significant changes, do not hesitate to reach out for professional advice.
Similar Q&A
Post-Circumcision Concerns: Pain, Size Changes, and Solutions
Hello Doctor, Although I have undergone circumcision, I would like to ask a few questions: 1. When I have an erection, the foreskin cannot retract behind the glans. When I pull the foreskin to the coronal ridge, it feels very tight, painful, and uncomfortable. Does this mean ...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) In this situation, the physician would recommend surgery; however, some individuals may tolerate the condition and opt not to undergo surgery. 2) Fat in the pubic area can visually shorten the penis, and exercise can still be effective, although the extent of the result...[Read More] Post-Circumcision Concerns: Pain, Size Changes, and Solutions
Post-Circumcision Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Short Penis Issues
Hello, doctor! I graduated at the age of 23 and underwent a circumcision. It has been about five months since then. After visiting a urologist, I was told that I have phimosis and was advised to undergo circumcision. However, my penis measures only about 2-3 cm when flaccid and a...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) There is no surgical procedure to address this issue; the only option is to reduce the chances of friction against the underwear. 2) It is generally normal to experience friction sensations for a few months, and most people find it to be about the same. Wishing you good...[Read More] Post-Circumcision Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Short Penis Issues
Managing Sensitivity After Circumcision: Solutions for Discomfort
After circumcision, if there is too much inner foreskin left, it can cause discomfort due to friction with underwear. However, further circumcision may result in a condition known as penile skin retraction or excessive shortening of the foreskin. What methods can be used to addre...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
This should be referred back to the original surgeon or a urology outpatient consultation. Generally, plastic surgeons perform fewer circumcision surgeries.[Read More] Managing Sensitivity After Circumcision: Solutions for Discomfort
Concerns After Circumcision: Understanding Recovery and Function
1. Is circumcision the procedure where the foreskin is sewn onto the penis? If so, would cutting too much affect the length of an erection, or is it simply flipped and sewn to the underside of the remaining foreskin, allowing for movement between the penis and the foreskin? 2. ...
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, 1. Circumcision will not affect the length of an erection. However, if the foreskin is too short, it may cause pain during an erection. For information on circumcision, you can search online for surgical illustrations. 2. This is considered normal. The pain from the wo...[Read More] Concerns After Circumcision: Understanding Recovery and Function
Related FAQ
(Urology)
Circumcision(Urology)
Foreskin(Urology)
Hypospadias(Urology)
Glans Penis(Urology)
Post-Electrocautery(Urology)
Pain After Ejaculation(Urology)
Pubic Hair(Urology)
Wound(Urology)
Epididymis(Urology)