Circumcision, or removing the foreskin of the penis, is a common procedure in the United States. More than half of boys in the United States are circumcised. Board-certified urologists Garry Peers, MD, Tim Roytman, MD, and Jason Smotherman, MD, offer circumcision that’s quick and painless. While the procedure is common among babies, older boys and men can get circumcised, too. Aloha Urology has locations in Honolulu, Hawaii and the neighboring islands. Call our office for an appointment.
What is circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which your urologist removes the penis foreskin, or skin that covers the tip of the penis. It’s a common procedure for newborn boys in the United States, but some older boys and men opt to get circumcised, too.
What are the benefits of circumcision?
You might choose circumcision for various reasons. Examples include:
- Religion
- It’s a tradition
- Easier hygiene
- Preventive health care
- Better aesthetics
- A lower risk of urinary tract infections
- Reduced risks of STDs
- A decreased risk of penile cancer
- Foreskin feels tight or uncomfortable
The skilled urologists at Aloha Urology have decades of experience with circumcision for babies, boys, and men of all ages.
What should I expect during circumcision?
Prior to circumcision, your urologist reviews you or your child’s medical history and completes an exam. He usually completes newborn circumcision in the hospital within 10 days of a child’s birth.
Your provider cleans and numbs the area to make circumcision comfortable, and uses a plastic ring or clamp to remove the foreskin. He covers the treated area with a topical ointment. The procedure takes about 10 minutes.
For older boys and men, a urologist might complete circumcision under general anesthesia instead of local anesthesia, as it’s more complex and takes longer than newborn circumcision.
What happens after the procedure?
After circumcision, the recovery time is about 7-10 days. Your penis tip might be sore, swollen, red, bruised, or contain a small amount of fluid at first. Keep the area clean and avoid putting pressure on it during healing. Use petroleum jelly or a topical antibiotic to enhance healing.
Call your urologist if you experience symptoms of a complication, such as persistent bleeding, abnormal urination after 12 hours of surgery, or foul-smelling drainage.
Am I a good candidate for circumcision?
If you’re interested in circumcision for yourself or your child, a urologist at Aloha Urology lets you know if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. If you’re in good health, chances are you can benefit from circumcision and will heal quickly after the procedure.
Don’t let penis foreskin get in the way of good hygiene or ruin your confidence. Make an appointment with Aloha Urology for a circumcision today.