What Is a Circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical healthcare procedure performed to remove the foreskin covering the penis. The surgical removal of all or part of the male prepuce, practiced by the Egyptians as part of their traditional methods of hygiene. Male circumcision was not performed at birth but during adolescence. The foreskin is the sleeve of loose skin that covers the bulgy end of the penis. One end of the foreskin attaches to the base of the glans and the other end lies freely over the glans to protect it.

Who Requires a Circumcision?

If the foreskin is tight and does not pull back from the glans, it can cause severe discomfort and potentially lead to infection. Sometimes the skin of the newly exposed glans becomes irritated by the pressure of diapers and ammonia in the urine. The irritation is usually treated with petroleum ointment (Vaseline) put directly on the area. This problem will usually lessen after a few days. An alternative to a circumcision is slitting the narrow path of the foreskin using a local anesthetic, but this leaves the foreskin untidy, making circumcision a superior option.

What Happens in a Circumcision?

After placing you under general anesthesia, your surgeon will remove most of the foreskin and stitch the remaining skin to the base of the glans. Most of the foreskin, especially the free end, is removed. The remaining skin is stitched to the base of the glans, so that there is no sleeve. Your healthcare provider will supply painkillers to manage the mild pain and discomfort you will experience. Antibiotics are also prescribed to protect against infection and swelling.