The article in brief
Adult circumcision is a surgical procedure that raises many questions. Here are the key points to remember:
- Circumcision involves removing the foreskin of the penis, altering its appearance and function
- The reasons may be medical (phimosis, infections), cultural or personal
- The operation takes around 30-45 minutes, generally in ambulatory
- Complete healing takes 2 to 4 weeks, with specific care to follow
- Results vary depending on the individual, but satisfaction is generally high
La adult circumcision is a surgical procedure that raises many questions. As an experienced urologist, I want to provide you with clear and precise information about this procedure. Whether you're considering this operation for medical, cultural or personal reasons, it's vital to fully understand its implications. Let's delve into the details of this common but often misunderstood procedure.
What is circumcision?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the partial or total removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin that covers the glans penis. This operation, which I perform regularly in my practice, transforms the appearance and function of the male organ.
A widespread procedure
Did you know that almost 30% of the world's male population is circumcised? The practice is particularly common in the United States, although less so in France. I've had the opportunity to observe this cultural difference in my discussions with American colleagues.
Surgical techniques
There are several techniques for creating a adult circumcision. The choice depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, the surgeon's preferences and local practices. As a specialist, I adapt my method to each case to obtain the best possible results.
Age and circumcision
Although circumcision can be performed at any age, it is rarely justified in very young children, except for specific medical reasons. In adults, the decision is generally well thought-out and based on personal or medical considerations.
Why undergo circumcision?
There are a variety of reasons why adults might consider circumcision. As a urologist, I regularly see patients who have questions about this procedure. Here are the main reasons I encounter in my practice:
Medical indications
Circumcision may be recommended to treat certain medical conditions, including :
- Phimosis: a foreskin that is too tight and prevents the glans from being unclipped
- Paraphimosis: irreversible retraction of the foreskin behind the glans
- Recurrent infections or balanitis
- Pain during sexual intercourse
In these cases, the circumcision can be an effective solution for improving the patient's quality of life.
Personal and cultural motivations
Some men opt for circumcision for religious, cultural or hygienic reasons. Others do it for aesthetic reasons or to feel more comfortable with their intimacy. It is crucial to respect these personal choices while ensuring that the decision is taken with full knowledge of the facts.
Preventive considerations
Although there is no scientific consensus on the benefits of circumcision in terms of preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or HIV, some men do consider it to be beneficial. I always remind my patients that circumcision in no way replaces the usual methods of protection.
The course of the operation
As a urological surgeon, I'm keen to explain the circumcision process in detail to my patients. Here's how the procedure generally works:
Preparation and anaesthesia
Before the operation, a pre-operative check-up and an anaesthetic consultation are required. The operation is generally performed on an outpatient basis, i.e. without hospitalisation. Depending on the case, I use a local, loco-regional or general anaesthetic. The operation lasts between 30 and 45 minutes.
The surgical procedure
During the operation, I remove the foreskin, taking care to preserve the sensitivity and aesthetics of the penis. The technique used may vary, but the objective remains the same: to obtain a satisfactory functional and aesthetic result.
Immediate follow-up
After the operation, a dressing is applied. I usually prescribe a treatment to limit post-operative erections, which can be uncomfortable during the healing phase. Patients can go home the same day, with specific instructions for home care.
| Phase | Duration | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Initial healing | 2 to 4 weeks | Rest, careful hygiene, loose-fitting underwear |
| Resumption of light activities | 1 to 2 weeks | Walking, non-intensive daily activities |
| Sexual abstinence | 4 to 6 weeks | Avoid all sexual activity |
| Resumption of sporting activities | 4 to 8 weeks | Progressive, according to medical advice |
Results and post-operative considerations
The period following a circumcision is crucial to achieving an optimal result. As a practitioner, I attach great importance to the post-operative follow-up of my patients. Here's what you can expect:
Healing and care
Complete healing generally takes 2 to 4 weeks. During this period, it is vital to follow the care instructions scrupulously:
- Daily gentle cleansing
- Wear loose-fitting underwear to avoid chafing
- Abstain from all sexual activity for 4 to 6 weeks
I recommend that my patients contact me immediately in the event of heavy bleeding, intense pain or signs of infection.
Physical and sensory changes
After healing, the glans remains permanently uncovered. This results in a slight change in sensitivity due to keratinisation of the surface. Most of my patients adapt quickly to this new sensation. The scar, which is generally not very visible, fades over time.
Impact on intimate life
Once the healing period is over, the majority of men report satisfaction with the results of their circumcision. Some report an improvement in their sex life, particularly those who previously suffered from recurrent pain or infections. It is important to note that experience can vary from one individual to another.
Finally, the adult circumcision is a well-controlled procedure that can bring significant benefits for some men. However, as with any surgical procedure, it requires careful thought and detailed discussion with a specialist. As an etanturologist, my role is to guide my patients towards the most appropriate decision for their health and well-being.
For more information on the various aspects of urology, I invite you to consult these reliable resources:
