Circumcision at Spire Harpenden Hospital

Several medical conditions also exist that can lead you to consider having a circumcision, including:

• Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin is tight and unable to retract over the head of the penis (glans). If the foreskin doesn't separate naturally, it can cause problems including swelling, pain or difficulty urinating
• recurrent infection under the foreskin
• acute Balanoposthitis, which is a condition caused by an infection that leads to the foreskin becoming red and swollen

This is a delicate issue and as well as physical discomfort caused by foreskin problems, it can also cause psychological trauma.

Our highly experienced team will explain all the medical issues and discuss what they are proposing to do, guiding you every step of the way.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

We understand that having surgery can often be a time of anxiety and worry, but our experienced and caring medical staff will be there for you, holding your hand, every step of the way.

The procedure involves the surgeon trimming away the narrow sleeve of the foreskin with a scalpel, scissors or a surgical clamp, while the remaining skin edges are stitched together, usually with dissolvable stitches.

The procedure is carried out under a general anaesthetic so you will be asleep throughout. It is relatively simple one and usually you can go home the same or next day.

After this, you will be taken to your room or comfortable area where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you're ready to go home.

The wound will usually be covered with a moist dressing, secured in place using elastic net pants. These can be removed the next day and once the dressing is removed you can wash as normal.

Pain relief

You may experience some pain and swelling and the penis will be easily irritated until it heals. The full healing process can take from four to six weeks.

We will provide you with a supply of all the medicines your consultant feels you need to take home with you after you've left hospital, up to 14 days. This may be at an additional cost to some patients.

Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen should be taken for at least three days after the operation.

Recovery time

When we discharge you we'll talk to you about whether your stitches and dressings need to be removed and we’ll make an appointment to see your consultant again before you go home.

You will probably be able to return to school or your job within a week.

After your operation, your penis will be red and swollen for a few days so you might want to wear comfortable and loose clothing for a while.

Avoid using scented products in the shower or bath and leave the penis to dry naturally. Putting petroleum ointment directly on to the area can also reduce irritation.

Your surgeon will advise you about sexual activity, but it is wise to avoid it until the wound has healed.

How your loved ones can help

Once you’re ready to be discharged, you’ll need to arrange a taxi, friend or family member to take you home as you won’t be able to drive. You should also ask them if they can run some light errands such as shopping for you as you won’t be feeling up to it.

Looking after you

Even once you’ve left hospital, we’re still here for you. Your consultant is likely to want to see you shortly after your operation to check everything is ok.

On rare occasions, complications following adult circumcision can occur. We will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.

If you have any questions or concerns we’re ready to help.

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.