Circumcision

gastroenterology-la-peer-healthCircumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the tissue that covers the tip of the penis. In the United States, circumcisions are often performed on male newborns before they leave the hospital. On average, 60 out of every 100 newborn males receive the procedure. However, older men that were uncircumcised as babies may undergo the procedure later in life, either by personal choice or out of medical necessity.

The medical benefits of circumcision are generally considered to outweigh the risks of the procedure. Many patients choose to have the procedure for themselves or their newborns based on religious or cultural preferences. Some of the benefits of circumcision may include:

  • Lowered risk of infection
  • Reduced pain due to scarring of the foreskin (termed phimosis)
  • More ease during voiding (urination)

The renowned Beverly Hills urologists at La Peer Health Systems are well trained in performing circumcisions on patients of all ages. Moreover, our surgeons are adept at incorporating patient’s personal preferences with the most current medical knowledge to provide effective patient-centered care. To schedule a circumcision with one of our highly trained urologists, please contact us today at (855) 360-9119.

Circumcision Procedure

For newborns, circumcisions are typically performed on the first or second day after birth. Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the patient. During the procedure, the surgeon frees the foreskin from the head of the penis (glans) and clips off the excess tissue. In newborns, this surgery takes approximately 10 minutes. When performed in adults, the circumcision procedure can last up to an hour. The site of surgery usually takes five to seven days to heal in newborns and one to two weeks in adults.

Medical Benefits of Circumcision

Numerous studies have suggested that circumcision brings added health benefits to males who undergo the procedure. In some older patients, a circumcision may be necessary in order to treat problems with the foreskin or inflammation at the tip of the penis. Ultimately, patients should discuss with their doctor their potential benefits from having the procedure. Benefits may include:

  • Decreased risk of urinary tract infections
  • Reduced risk of sexually transmitted disease
  • Protection against penile cancer
  • Prevention of inflammation of the glans
  • Easier to maintain hygiene

Medical Risks of Circumcision

The risks of circumcision are greater when performed on adults compared to newborns. However, many men choose to have circumcisions later in life for its benefits. It is important to discuss the following risks with your doctor to determine how they might pertain to your individual care:

  • Bleeding and infection at the site of circumcision
  • Scarring at the incision site

Circumcision FAQ’s

Q: Is circumcision necessary?

A: Though there has been much debate on the necessity of circumcision in males, it often comes down to individual personal, religious, or cultural preference. Patients should talk with their doctor about the benefits/risks of circumcision and should plan to do so as early as possible in the male’s life.

Q: Does circumcision affect sexual sensations?

A: There is conflicting evidence as to the result of circumcision on male sexual performance. One study cites the removal of nerve endings in the foreskin to decreased sensitivity and satisfaction. Others conclude that this leads to increased time to achieve orgasm and enhances sexual performance.

Contact a Beverly Hills Urologist

If you would like more information on the circumcision procedure, consider scheduling a consultation with one of renowned urological surgeons in Beverly Hills. Contact La Peer Health Systems at 855.260.9119 for more information about treatments and our urology team.

Next, read about Erectile Dysfunction.