Male Circumcision: Benefits, Procedure & Recovery

Whether it is for medical, cultural or personal reasons, circumcision is a procedure that comes with one question: “Is it safe?” “Does it hurt?” or “How long does it take to heal?“

If you are considering circumcision, understanding the procedure in detail, from benefits to the recovery process, is important to make you feel confident about this surgical intervention.

This blog will discuss everything you need to know about male circumcision – including how the procedure works, why people opt for it, what to expect and how to recover successfully without any complications.

What is Circumcision?

Circumcision refers to the surgical process of removal of the foreskin, the fold of the skin that covers the head of the penis. It is a common procedure and is performed due to cultural, medical and personal concerns.

While circumcision can be done at any age, the procedure is mainly done in infancy or early adulthood. In some cases, even older individuals prefer to undergo circumcision because of health issues like phimosis and hygiene purposes.

If you are considering circumcision in Kolkata, you will find a lot of qualified surgeons, particularly Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, who has advanced knowledge of minimally invasive circumcision techniques like laser and stapler. He will assess your specific needs and help you understand what to expect before and after the procedure.

How Circumcision Is Carried Out

Circumcision is a simple and safe surgical technique that takes around 30 minutes to complete. The procedure begins with the cleaning and sterilisation of the genital area to prevent infections. Depending on the patient’s age and health issues, local or general anaesthesia is given to ensure a pain-free experience.

The foreskin is pulled forward and gently removed using a scalpel or other surgical device. The remaining edges of the skin are then stitched or sealed, and bleeding is controlled. After the procedure, a dressing is done to protect the wound and to aid in healing.

Different Ways of Doing Circumcision

Circumcision in Kolkata is performed using different techniques, each of which aims to remove the foreskin safely.

Conventional Method

This is the most common approach. Here, the foreskin is surgically cut using a scalpel. After the incision, the wound is stitched or sutured. This technique takes around 45 minutes to complete and also involves post-operative discomfort and a longer recovery time.

Laser Circumcision

It is a modern, non-invasive method where the foreskin is removed using a high-energy laser beam instead of a traditional scalpel. It results in minimal bleeding, reduced pain and faster healing.

Stapler Circumcision

It is also a new technique that uses a sterilised disposal stapling device to remove the foreskin. It is one of the quickest circumcision methods (takes 15 minutes) with no blood loss, scarring, or complications and a shorter healing period.

Benefits of Circumcision

Dr Purnendu Bhowmik, one of the surgeons performing advanced circumcision in Kolkata, lists the several advantages of the procedure. Here are the following advantages that are mostly observed.

• Reduced risk of STIs: Research shows that circumcision reduces the risk of HIV to a great extent. The procedures also lower the incidence of other sexually transmitted disorders like herpes and HPV.
• Improved hygiene: Washing the penis without the foreskin is much easier, thereby reducing the likelihood of trapped bacteria and buildup that often leads to infections.
• Prevention of foreskin conditions: Circumcision prevents the risk of different foreskin conditions like phimosis, a disease where the patient is unable to retract the foreskin.
• Lesser risk of urinary tract infections: Studies show that circumcised males have a reduced risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which often result in kidney stones when left untreated.
• Enhanced sexual comfort: Circumcision reduces friction and irritation during intimate moments, especially in cases when the foreskin causes discomfort.
• Lower chance of cancer: Circumcision has been associated with a reduced risk of cancer, particularly penile and prostate cancer.

Recovery After Circumcision

Conventional: Here, the healing takes around 7-10 days. Since large incisions are involved, patients experience minor discomfort like swelling, redness and soreness for some days.

Laser: This method typically offers faster healing with minimal bleeding and pain. Most patients are able to resume their daily activities within 3-4 days.

Stapler: Recovery time is generally 1 day. As the wound heals, the surgical staples fall off naturally.

Post-Operative Care After Circumcision

Following circumcision in Kolkata, patients are advised to follow these post-operative instructions for safe and quick healing.

• Make sure to keep the area clean and dry.
• Apply ointments or creams as instructed by the doctor.
• Avoid scrubbing the incision site.
• Take the prescribed medicines as and when required.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing for comfort.
• Avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting and bicycling.
• Monitor the signs of infection like swelling, discharge and pus discharge.
• Refrain from sexual activity for a few days.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
• Take enough rest.

Following these instructions under the guidance of your doctor will help prevent complications and ensure a comfortable recovery experience.

What are the Risks Involved?

• Though rare, the circumcision procedure also comes with certain risks, especially if performed by an inexperienced surgeon.
• Minor bleeding is common and resolves on its own.
• Severe or prolonged bleeding requires treatment.
• Infection at the incision site
• Damage to the penis
• Excessive or insufficient foreskin removal
• Visible scarring or uneven healing
• Difficulty in urinating, particularly in infants
• Narrowing of the opening of the urethra

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon to discuss your concerns. For longer the treatment is delayed, the greater the chance of serious health issues.

Conclusion

Circumcision in Kolkata is safe and effective when performed by an expert like Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik. Hence, choose a trusted professional who will ensure your comfort throughout the process.