Display Patient Information Leaflets

Date issued: November 2024

For review: November 2026

Ref: A645/TA/Urology/Circumcision Frenuloplasty

PDF: Circumcision Frenuloplasty (Tavistock Hospital)[pdf] 190KB

The Operation

The operation is performed under general or local anaesthetic and discharge takes place when the patient has recovered from the initial effects of the anaesthetic and after he has passed urine. The surgeon will be informed if there is a problem requiring his attention prior to discharge, although they will not see all patients routinely before they are sent home.

Anaesthetic Effects

It is normal to feel a little drowsy after a general anaesthetic. You may also feel slightly nauseous. Symptoms normally disappear after 18-24 hours.

Pain

This is not usually a major problem, but the patient will experience some pain. A long-acting pain-killing injection may be inserted at the base of the penis during the anaesthetic, and this may last up to a few hours. You should start taking simple pain-killing tablets such as paracetamol at the dosage as described on the packet, as soon as you get home to keep any pain under control.

Bleeding

Some oozing of blood is normal after the operation. If there is persistent oozing of blood sufficient to soak the dressings or clothing, you should phone your local minor injuries unit or your GP. Sometimes readmission to hospital is required and the occasional patient may require further minor surgery to stop the bleeding.

Stitches

Most surgeons insert a row of stitches around the head of the penis. These stitches do not need to be removed and are of the dissolvable kind which disappear or fall away. The speed with which this occurs may vary depending on the type of suture used by each surgeon. This process usually takes between 1-3 weeks.

Dressings

Some surgeons use dressings; others prefer to leave the wound open. It is common for the dressing to come off soon after the operation, if this happens then keep the area exposed

Appearance

Oozing, swelling, bruising and scabbing are all common after circumcision. The appearance 24-48 hours after the operation can sometimes be alarming. This does not mean something has gone wrong or that there is an infection needing antibiotics. It is a normal part of healing after this type of operation. However, if you are anxious about the appearance, please ask your GP to check the site and reassure you. If you do develop an infection, please let us know by calling 01752 436104.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, heat, odorous discharge or pain, please contact your G.P. or call a number on this sheet.

Passing Urine

There is normally no problem passing urine after circumcision. Occasionally after a few days the urinary opening may become sore and cause pain passing water. This is more likely in young boys still in nappies and is due to the penis rubbing on nappies and clothes. It can be prevented by regularly smearing the opening with Vaseline. If pain when passing water becomes a problem, you should consult your GP.

Bathing/Showering

You may shower after 72 hours in warm water. Avoid vigorous washing whilst healing is taking place. Please do not have a bath for at least 72 hours only using warm water.

Complete Healing

Complete healing with a return to a normal appearance after circumcision may be expected within 4 weeks.

Return to Normal Activities

Your surgeon will advise you on a suitable period of convalescence and when it is safe to return to work and recreational activities. Do not have sexual intercourse for 4 weeks following surgery.

Problems

If non-urgent problems occur in the first 72 hours and you need information or advice:

• Please ring Tavistock Hospital on 01752 36100

• Out of hours: Contact NHS 111

• After 48 Hours: Contact your own GP or 111

If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, heat, odorous discharge or pain, please contact your G.P. If you do develop an infection within two weeks of your surgery, please let us know by calling 01752 436104.

In an emergency

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.