1300 265 666

Circumcision

Adult circumcision, when medically indicated for phimosis (tight foreskin), is performed by our specialist surgeons.

What is Phimosis?

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the glans (head) of the penis. In adults, this may cause pain, recurrent infections, difficulty with hygiene, sexual dysfunction, or urinary problems.

Why Circumcision is Recommended

Circumcision involves surgical removal of the foreskin. In adults with phimosis, it is recommended when:

  • The foreskin cannot be retracted

  • There are recurrent infections or inflammation (balanitis)

  • Pain occurs with erections or sexual activity

  • Scarring or thickening of the foreskin is present

  • Conservative treatments have failed

Circumcision is a definitive and effective treatment for phimosis and is routinely performed by our experienced specialist surgeons at Specialist Surgeons Sydney Pty Ltd.

The Operation (Basic Overview)

  • Circumcision is performed as a minor surgical procedure

  • It is usually done under local or general anaesthesia

  • The tight foreskin is carefully removed

  • Bleeding is controlled, often using diathermy

  • The skin edges are closed with dissolvable sutures

  • A dressing is applied

The procedure is typically completed within a short time and most patients go home the same day.

Potential Risks and Complications

All surgery carries risks. Although uncommon, potential complications include:

  • Bleeding

  • Pain

  • Infection

  • Diathermy-related injury to the urethra

  • Injury to the glans penis

  • Skin necrosis (loss of skin due to poor blood supply)

Your surgeon will take every precaution to minimise these risks and will discuss them with you prior to surgery.

Pain Control and Erections After Surgery

It is normal to experience discomfort after circumcision.
Importantly:

  • Post-operative analgesia will be provided

  • This is specifically intended to manage pain associated with early morning erections, which commonly occur during REM sleep

  • Adequate pain control is a key part of your recovery

Aftercare Instructions

  • Keep the dressing clean and dry as advised

  • Expect some swelling and bruising, which usually settles over time

  • Avoid strenuous activity and sexual activity until cleared by your surgeon

  • Wear supportive underwear to reduce movement

  • Take prescribed pain relief as directed

When to Seek Medical Help

Contact your surgeon or seek urgent medical attention if:

  • Bleeding occurs that cannot be controlled by the dressing

  • Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge suggests infection

  • Severe or worsening pain occurs despite medication

  • You develop fever or feel unwell

  • There is concern about wound appearance or healing

Surgical alternatives to circumcision

Surgical alternatives to circumcision, include Preputioplasty where the narrowing is widened by means of advancement flap without loss of foreskin.  It has the benefit of preserving the foreskin (for cultural, personal or religious reasons).  It has the disadvantage of higher failure rate (persistent phimosis) than circumcision and shortening the length of the foreskin.  

Scroll to Top