Circumcision (Adult)

What do I need to know about this procedure?

A circumcision (Adult) procedure is the removal of the foreskin at the end of the penis. The remaining skin is stitched in place just below the head of the penis.

Anaesthetic

This procedure will require an anaesthetic.

What are the risks of this specific procedure?

There are risks and complications with this procedure.
They include but are not limited to the following:

General risks:

• Infection can occur, requiring antibiotics and further treatment.
• Bleeding could occur and may require a return to the operating room. Bleeding is more common if you have been taking blood thinning drugs such as Warfarin, Asprin, Clopidogrel (Plavix or Iscover) or Dipyridamole (Persantin or Asasantin).
• Small areas of the lung can collapse, increasing the risk of chest infection. This may need antibiotics and physiotherapy.
• Increased risk in obese people of wound infection, chest infection, heart and lung complications, and thrombosis.
• Heart attack or stroke could occur due to the strain on the heart.
• Blood clot in the leg (DVT) causing pain and swelling. In rare cases, part of the clot may break off and go to the lungs.
• Death as a result of this procedure is possible.

Specific risks:

• The penis may not look cosmetically pleasing.
• The tip of the penis may be injured.
• The end of the penis may be raw and bleed after the operation.
• More skin may need to be removed.
• Scar tissue may cause blockage to urine flow from the end of the penis.