From Birth to Adulthood: Circumcision Choices Across the Lifespan

Lazare Urology Centre comprises experienced and skilled surgeons who offer circumcision with utmost ease, precision, and patient compliance. Circumcision is a common minimally invasive surgical procedure performed for babies, but it is being opted even by adults due to several religious, and medical benefits. It involves the removal of the foreskin from the penile glans (head) and retracting backward. Let’s explore this procedure further. 

A comprehensive guide to circumcision

Circumcision is a widely practiced procedure, especially for babies. It involves the removal of the foreskin that covers the glans, or head of the penis. Typically performed on male babies shortly after birth for religious reasons, is now recommended for various other reasons including medical, cultural, and personal preferences. 

The three major circumcision techniques include:

• Gomco clamp
• Mogen clamp
• Plastibell device 

The potential benefits of circumcision include:

• A circumscribed penis is easy to clean, especially in children 
• It lowers the risk of the following:
  • Phimosis 
  • Balanitis 
  • Urinary tract infections 
  • Penile cancer 
  • Cervical cancer 
  • STIs

How do you prepare for circumcision?

You can expect the following preparation before a circumcision:

• Administration of local anesthesia in the form of numbing creams or gels
• Providing a mild painkiller to help with pain relief 
• If you are an adult, be sure to inform your doctor about:
  • Any herbal supplements being taken 
  • NSAIDs and blood thinners being taken 
  • Allergies to anesthesia 

What happens during circumcision?

Circumcision is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed by a skilled urologist or a pediatrician. The procedure usually takes around 20-25 minutes. 

• Your baby will be placed on your back
• Gently restrain the arms and legs so the baby’s limbs don’t flail during the procedure 
• Clean the penis with an antiseptic 
• Separate the foreskin from the head of the penis with any of the three techniques 

Babies do not require stitches, while adults may require dissolvable stitches. 

What happens after a circumcision?

You are expected to go home after the procedure. Your doctor will recommend all the necessary instructions to be followed, and prescribe painkillers and antibiotics. You must keep the area clean and dry and change the dressing as and when required. You are expected to avoid strenuous physical activities and have a bath for at least 2-3 days to prevent moisture. 

Bottom line 

Circumcision, traditionally performed on babies, has seen a growing trend among adults seeking its associated benefits. It is advisable to consult with a medical professional to explore whether circumcision is suitable for either yourself or your baby.