Circumcision

What is a circumcision?

A circumcision is a common surgery in which the foreskin covering the tip of the penis is removed. It is usually done as a personal and hygienic preference as well as for medical reasons. Dr. Noorbhai performs this surgery for children as well as adults.

How is a circumcision done?

Circumcisions are done under general anaesthesia. Each doctor has their preference for technique used to do this procedure. Dr. Noorbhai retracts the foreskin and removes it via a dorsal slit incision.. The procedure usually takes about half an hour to complete and is even quicker when done for young children.

Why would a circumcision be done?

A circumcision is done for many personal and religious reasons. It can be done for young children or adults. Circumcision is also done for conditions of the foreskin such as swelling, inflammation or inability to retract the foreskin. Circumcision has the following advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of circumcision

Decreased risk of urinary tract infections in infancy
Genital hygiene is made easier
Decreased risk of cervical cancer in female partners of men who are circumcised
Prevention of foreskin-related conditions
Decreased risk of sexually transmitted diseases and infections.
Decreased risk of penile cancer

Disadvantages of circumcision

May cause pain
Circumcision has complications such as poor healing, infection and bleeding

How long will I be in hospital?

Most patients can go home on the same day as surgery. How soon you will be discharged from hospital depends on how much pain you have and whether you have someone to look after you at home.

What will happen after surgery?

Following circumcision you may experience the following:

Pain.
Pain when coughing, sneezing or laughing.
Red skin around your wounds.

Re-consult if you have an unusually high temperature, increased pain, difficulty urinating, chills, vomiting, swelling around the incisions or bleeding as emergency care may be needed. Approximately 3 weeks after your operation you will be seen by your surgeon to check your wounds.

How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities?

You will be able to resume normal activities soon after your surgery; however, it is important to start slowly. If you experience pain during a certain activities, stop that activity. You may not do any heavy lifting or vigorous physical activity for at least 6 weeks after your procedure. You will be advised to avoid sexual activity for the next 6 weeks and physical exercise for at least 4 weeks after surgery.