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Our COVID-19 measures remain in place. Feel safe at Sussex Premier Health hospitals. Read our Covid-19 Policy here
Surgical removal of the foreskin for medical reasons
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis. It is a relatively simple operation that is most performed for various reasons.
The operation is a delicate procedure but is usually carried out on a day-patient basis.
Same day discharge
General
Yes
Yes
Several medical conditions also exist that can lead you to consider having a circumcision, including:
This is a delicate issue and as well as physical discomfort caused by foreskin problems, it can also cause psychological trauma.
You will have a formal consultation with your Consultant Urological Surgeon. 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.
On the day of your operation, our ward staff will show you to your own private room. Your private room will have an en-suite bathroom and TV and Wi-Fi facilities.
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 your procedure, you will be taken to your room 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.
Once you’re ready to be discharged from hospital, you’ll need to arrange for a friend or family member to take you home as you won’t be able to drive.
For guidance on pain relief and your recovery time, please see our patient information sections below.
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.
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.
After you’ve left hospital, we’re still here when you need us.
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.
You can call and speak to a member of the nursing team at any time, please call 01424 757459.
At Sussex Premier Health, your surgery will be performed by your consultant surgeon.
Speak to a member of our team
01424 757400 
info@sussexpremierhealth.com 
01424 757400