Adult Circumcision in Whitechapel, East London

Why adult circumcision may be considered

The NHS says circumcision may be considered for repeated foreskin infections (balanitis), a tight foreskin (phimosis) causing problems such as painful erections or difficulty passing urine, scarring or tightness, or difficulty retracting and cleaning beneath the foreskin. Some men also choose it for personal, cultural or religious reasons.

Alternatives to surgery

Circumcision is not always the only treatment. For a tight foreskin, options can include steroid creams or gels to soften the skin, antibiotics if there is an infection, or a less extensive procedure such as preputioplasty, which is usually only suitable for children. Circumcision is generally considered when other treatments have not worked or are not suitable.

The consultation

You have a private consultation before treatment. The surgeon reviews your medical history, discusses your reasons, assesses suitability, explains the surgical approach and anaesthetic options, and talks through the possible risks, preparation, recovery and aftercare.

There is no obligation to proceed. If the foreskin is trapped behind the head of the penis and cannot be returned, this may be paraphimosis and needs urgent medical attention before any routine circumcision is discussed.

The procedure and anaesthetic

Anaesthetic options vary. The NHS describes circumcision under general, regional or local anaesthetic depending on the setting. London Surgical Centre describes local anaesthetic for babies and advertises a sedation service for some older children and adults. Confirm with the clinic which option is available for your case.

The NHS explains that the surgeon makes a circular cut around the foreskin, removes it and closes the skin with dissolvable stitches, which dissolve over about 2 to 6 weeks. The operation usually takes around 30 minutes and is typically a day-case procedure.

Recovery and aftercare

The NHS advises full healing usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks, sometimes longer. Swelling, bruising and minor bleeding are normal for the first 1 to 2 weeks, and the glans is often sensitive. Wear loose clothing, wash gently and pat dry, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed.

Avoid swimming, cycling, sport and heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks, and avoid sex and masturbation for at least 4 weeks and until the wound is fully healed. Many men take about a week off work, longer for physically demanding jobs. Follow your surgeon's advice.

Risks and complications

All surgery carries risk, though most men have no serious problems. The NHS lists bleeding, infection, pain or swelling and changes in sensitivity among possible complications. Circumcision usually reduces glans sensitivity and changes how the skin moves, which can affect sexual experience.

Occasionally a further operation is needed, and rarely the urethra can be narrowed or damaged. Seek advice for bleeding that does not stop, a red or warm wound, fever, difficulty passing urine, blood in urine or worsening pain. If you cannot pass urine at all, call 999 or go to A&E.

Cost

Adult circumcision is priced individually. London Surgical Centre gives a quote rather than a fixed adult price, because the fee depends on your requirements. The clinic explains the expected fees before treatment; see the cost page for more detail.