Adult Circumcision
Adult circumcision can be done for a variety of reasons including cultural, religious, and health reasons. If you are asking yourself “Am I too old to get circumcised?” you need not worry as age bears no relation to the outcome of the procedure.
At Spencer Private Hospitals, we have a number of leading Urological Consultants that can perform this procedure on adult males.
Health Conditions Requiring Circumcision
- Phimosis (Tight Foreskin)
This is where the foreskin is pulled tightly around the head of the penis. This can often be painful, especially when the penis is erect. Passing urine with phimosis can also frequently be an issue for patients.
- Recurrent Balanitis
This affects the foreskin and head of the penis, causing them to get inflamed. This can be caused by a bacterial infection and, if so, can usually be treated with a course of antibiotics. It’s when balanitis recurs and resists treatment that your GP or Consultant may recommend circumcision as a solution.
- Paraphimosis
Where, for various reasons, the foreskin cannot be returned to its original position after being pulled back. This causes the head of the penis to swell. Immediate treatment is required to stop serious complications, such as restricted blood flow to the penis, which can cause gangrene in extreme cases.
- Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans
This condition causes phimosis and, in some rarer cases also affects the head of the penis which can become inflamed and sore.
- Cancer of the Penis
This is a very rare type of cancer. A red patch, wart-like growth or ulcer appears on the end of the penis or under the foreskin. Other common treatments for this are radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
The Adult Circumcision Procedure
Adult circumcision can take up to an hour and can need a longer recovery time than when it is undertaken as a child. Circumcision is usually carried out as a day case procedure meaning that you won’t have to stay overnight. The procedure itself will require you to have either a general anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic – usually depending on preference.
Your Consultant will give you post-surgery instructions to aid recovery and give you all the information you require, answering any questions you may have.
Post-Procedure
Your Consultant will give you personal instructions on how to take care following the procedure. Typically, you will be advised to avoid any vigorous exercise for a few weeks. Also, when it comes to circumcision for adults, sexual activity should be avoided for around 4-6 weeks depending on various factors – such as expected recovery time and possibility of infection. Again, your Consultant will give you advice to make sure your recovery is as quick and as painless as possible.
